141) The Delegation of Canada while introducing the document informed the Committee that the review of world trade statistics data during the last years indicated a constant increase in trade of scallop meat as expressed per net weight of the product as well as in number of countries engaged in trade. The Delegation also outlined major issues that could be taken into account while deciding whether developing one or two standards for the above products: accumulation of marine biotoxins, use of sodium tripolyphosphate as a food additive, accumulation of moisture and use of bovine fibrinogen to bind pieces of scallop meat.
142) The Committee had an exchange of views regarding the elaboration of one or two standards. The Delegation of France pointed out the differences existing between the species concerned and supported the elaboration of separate standards for molluscs and for scallop meat. This approach was supported by some other delegations. The Delegations of Canada, France, Ireland, Japan, and Thailand expressed their willingness to participate in the elaboration of the Proposed Draft Standard for Scallops. The Delegation of France drew the attention of the Committee to the existence of a significant trade of scallop muscle with roe and expressed the view that the inclusion of this product in the standard should be considered.
143) The Delegation of Denmark indicated that the scientific data regarding the contamination of scallop muscle with biotoxins were limited and that the addition of bovine fibrinogen to this product might create misunderstanding among consumers. The Delegation was of the opinion that the title of the standard needed clarification and that it was important to assure the traceability of fibrinogen.
144) The Committee agreed to initiate the elaboration of a standard for scallops as new work, subject to approval by the Commission. All interested Member Governments were invited to participate in the drafting of the above standard led by Canada.
