RASFF (EU) Alert Update on Vietnamese Shrimp and Key Considerations for Exporters

Latest RASFF Notification

On July 22, 2026, the European Union's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF) issued Notification No. 2026.6481 concerning a shipment of shrimp originating from Vietnam.

According to the published information, the notifying authority was the Netherlands, following an internal company inspection. The notification concerns E452 (Polyphosphates) levels exceeding the maximum limit permitted under EU regulations.

This notification serves as an important reminder for seafood processing and exporting companies to continuously monitor regulatory updates and ensure compliance with European food safety standards.

Key Information of the RASFF Notification

Notification Date: July 22, 2026

Notification Number: 2026.6481

Notifying Country: The Netherlands

Product: Vietnamese Shrimp

Product Category: Crustaceans and crustacean products

Issue: E452 (Polyphosphates) exceeded the maximum permitted level.

Analytical Result: 6,100 mg/kg

EU Maximum Limit: 5,000 mg/kg

Accordig to the RASFF assessment, the incident was classified as Not Serious. The affected shipment had already been distributed to several EU Member States before the notification was published.

What is E452 (Polyphosphates)?

E452 (Polyphosphates) is a food additive authorized for use in various food products under European Union regulations.

Within the seafood processing industry, Polyphosphates are commonly used to:

  

 

Improve water retention.

Maintain product texture.

Reduce weight loss during storage.

Enhance product appearance and overall quality.

However, their use must strictly comply with regulations regarding dosage, intended application, and labeling requirements established by each importing market.

What Should Businesses Pay Attention To?

Although this notification was classified as not serious, it highlights the importance of reviewing production processes and strengthening quality management systems.

Companies are encouraged to:

Strictly control the use of food additives during processing.

Ensure Polyphosphate levels remain within EU legal limits.

Prepare complete technical documentation and traceability records.

Coordinate with importers regarding testing requirements before shipment.

Strengthen finished-product quality inspections before export.

Proactive quality control not only minimizes the risk of future RASFF notifications but also helps enhance the reputation of Vietnamese seafood in international markets.

The Importance of RASFF for Seafood Exporters

RASFF is the European Union's food safety rapid alert system that enables Member States to exchange information whenever food safety issues are detected.

Through RASFF, exporters can:

Stay informed about the latest food safety alerts.

Keep up to date with EU regulatory requirements.

Improve production and quality control systems.

Ensure exported products comply with international food safety standards.

Conclusion

RASFF notifications are valuable sources of information for seafood exporters and play an important role in improving quality management across the industry.

  

 

For Vietnamese shrimp exporters, complying with regulations on food additives, maintaining strict quality control, and continuously monitoring RASFF updates are essential to reducing trade risks, strengthening brand reputation, and enhancing competitiveness in the European market.

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