The integration of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology in the fishing sector is transforming how catches are tracked, from the ocean to the plate. Whether for industrial fleets or artisanal vessels, the challenges differ, but the objective remains traceability and transparency.
RFID has existed since the 2000s in fish auctions (or "criées"). At that time, it was used to improve the management of bins containing fish. Boxes were read on a conveyor belt at a short distance (a few cm). Tags were significant both in terms of size and unit price. Traceability was not a common topic back then.
For industrial fishing, bin traceability (containers and contents) associated with onboard equipment (for weighing and recording) has been tested. For artisanal fishing, the concept of the FIP (Fishing Identification Plate) for pirogues gained support, though it struggled to secure enough market and donor backing.
The Assets of RFID
- Traceability and Food Safety : This is the major asset. RFID chips attached to fish bins or nets allow for more precise tracking.
- Complete History : Data can be cross-referenced, including catch zone, landing time, and storage conditions like temperature.
- Speed : Unlike barcodes, RFID does not require a "direct line of sight," allowing entire pallets to be scanned in seconds.
- Combatting IUU Fishing : RFID helps authorities verify the legality of catches (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated fishing).
- Authentication : Marking gear (nets, traps, bins, or Bluefin tuna tags) ensures fishers respect quotas, fishing times, and authorized zones.
- Proof of Origin : Adds value for consumers demanding sustainable fishing labels.
- Optimized Equipment Management : In industrial fishing, equipment costs are massive.
- Automated Inventory : Tracking net wear and maintenance of connected buoys.
- Recovery : Long-range RFID beacons facilitate the localization of lost gear (ghost nets).
Disadvantages and Challenges
- Installation and Maintenance Costs : Initial investment for readers and chips can be prohibitive for small artisanal fishers.
- Durability : The marine environment is extremely hostile due to salt corrosion, pressure, and humidity.
- Encapsulation : Chips must be encased in robust materials, which increases their price.
- Technical Limits (The "Water" Effect) : High-frequency radio waves are absorbed by water.
- Frequency Specifics : To work on fresh, wet fish, specific frequencies (UHF with special tags or LF/HF) must be used, which can reduce reading distance.
- Logistical Complexity : RFID requires a digital ecosystem (databases, internet connection) that isolated artisanal fishing zones often lack.
- Acceptability : Cultural resistance may occur if fishers perceive the tool as a surveillance instrument rather than a sales aid.
Current Operational Challenges
After nearly 25 years, the problems remain largely the same due to the working environment of fish crates :
Rough and repeated handling.
- High temperatures in bin-washing machines (70°C).
- Low temperatures in cold rooms (-15°C).
- Aggressive detergents used for washing.
- Multiplicity of containers : Bins of various sizes, containers, and pallets.
- Permanent contact with salt and moisture from the fish.
- Stainless steel environment : Radio waves bounce unpredictably off metal surfaces.
In late 2016, a chip manufacturer combined one chip with two antennas at distinct frequencies, allowing for both short-range (a few cm) and medium-range (a few meters) readings and writing. This led to the creation of the first "tide-tag" (one upper for Britanny Fishing Vessels and lower one for Vendée FV).
The Traceability Process
- 1. Tagging : Empty crates (new or used) are tagged to give them a unique identity.
- 2. Onboard Sorting : Fish are sorted by species and size, then placed in crates and weighed.
- 3. Data Recording : Information (species, size, quality, catch location, and date) is written to the tag during the weighing/printing operation.
- 4. Tracking : Reading gates are placed at landing conveyors, auction entrances, cold storage, and delivery points.
- 5. Final Step : The tag memory is reset after washing, and the wash cycle is recorded for sanitary tracking.
Photo of full fish crates stored in cold storage, with labels sticked aside.
Pictures of RFID tagged crates, and pile of crates slotted with tags
Efforts to link all actors from "net to fork" are ongoing, including the use of single-use expanded polyester boxes for final shipping to retailers.
