Market potential and buyer criteria for a new transportation system for whole fish: The Norwegian salmon farming industry

Peter Stette AS is developing a system for transportation of fish in cooperation with Picker Technologies LLC. Key feature is swift transportation of fish without the use of water, hence low energy consumption. The pace of transportation is determined by vacuum and air flow, theoretically meaning that lift height and weight is unlimited. Several potential applications have been discussed with the salmon aquaculture industry.

The one application perceived as having the greatest potential is that in internal transportation of fish at processing plants. It is important that the system is able to register data on size, weight, etc., as well as having some sort of counting mechanism. The most important issue to solve is how transportation of live fish in a dry environment will affect fish welfare. Both industry and responsible authority emphasize this. Other issues of concern are hygiene effects, maintenance requirements, stability and durability, all of which will have to be dealt with properly in order to appeal to the industry.

The common perception is undoubtedly that there is a need for new transportation solutions in the Norwegian salmon aquaculture industry. Information obtained in this project gives Peter Stette AS a unique opportunity to head start and to develop a tailor-made solution to industry needs.