Whitefish Blocks
Whitefish blocks are frozen Alaska pollock fillet portions that are skinned and formed into large blocks. They are commonly sold in blocks weighing over 4.5 kg each for further processing such as mincing or cutting.
Prices, specifications and international trade for whitefish blocks under HS 030475.
Whitefish Blocks Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Whitefish blocks is quoted in USD/t at CHN. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
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United States led reported whitefish blocks exports in 2025, at $399M.
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Whitefish blocks grading factors include Flesh color, Texture and water content, and Bone and skin removal.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for whitefish blocks considers Flesh color, Texture and water content, and Bone and skin removal.
- Flesh color
Uniform, white-to-cream color indicates freshness and proper handling; discoloration suggests oxidation or age, affecting visual appeal in final products.
- Texture and water content
Firm, moist texture with controlled water content ensures good binding and prevents mushy or dry cooked results; excess water can dilute flavor and affect coating adhesion.
- Bone and skin removal
Thorough removal of bones and skin is critical for consumer safety and texture; any remaining pieces can cause choking or unpleasant mouthfeel.
- Block uniformity
Consistent block dimensions and weight ensure even portioning and cooking; irregular blocks lead to variable cook times and product appearance.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for whitefish blocks include Freezer burn, Blood spots or bruising, and Off-odors.
- Freezer burn
Dry, whitish, or grayish patches on the surface caused by dehydration during frozen storage; it leads to tough, chewy texture and off-flavors.
- Blood spots or bruising
Dark red or brown discolorations from improper bleeding or handling; they are visually unappealing and may indicate poor fish health or rough processing.
- Off-odors
Fishy, rancid, or ammonia-like smells indicate spoilage or enzymatic breakdown; they persist after cooking and render the product unacceptable.
Whitefish Blocks Facts and HS Code
Whitefish blocks belongs to seafood within protein and dairy. Its customs classification covers HS 030475.
Whitefish Blocks HS Code
| Also known as | frozen pollock blocks, Alaska pollock fillet blocks |
|---|---|
| Scientific name | Theragra chalcogramma |
| Product type | Intermediate |
| Form | Frozen |
| Position in the chain | Processed |
| Category | Seafood — Protein and dairy |
| HS codes | 030475 |
| HS6 description | Fish fillets; frozen, Alaska pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | CHN |
Production & Handling
Whitefish blocks storage guidance: Store at or below minus eighteen degrees Celsius in a clean, dry, odor-free freezer to prevent dehydration and rancidity. Maintain constant temperature to avoid thawing and refreezing, which degrades texture and promotes spoilage.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | High |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Frozen |
| Storage conditions | Store at or below minus eighteen degrees Celsius in a clean, dry, odor-free freezer to prevent dehydration and rancidity. Maintain constant temperature to avoid thawing and refreezing, which degrades texture and promotes spoilage. |
| Production methods | Wild capture |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical whitefish blocks packaging includes Polyethylene-lined carton and Bulk master carton.
- Polyethylene-lined carton
Blocks are wrapped in polyethylene film and placed in a corrugated carton for protection against moisture loss and physical damage during transport.
- Bulk master carton
Multiple blocks are packed in a larger master carton for efficient handling and storage in foodservice and industrial settings.
Uses & Risks
Whitefish blocks is used in Minced fish products, Surimi, and Fish sticks and breaded seafood items.
End Uses
- Minced fish products
Blocks are broken down and mixed for minced fish applications
- Surimi
Frozen blocks are processed into surimi paste
- Fish sticks and breaded seafood items
Blocks are portioned and formed into breaded shapes
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Seafood processing, Food manufacturing |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Microbial growth from temperature abuse Food safetyHigh If frozen whitefish blocks are exposed to temperatures above the recommended range, pathogenic bacteria can proliferate, posing a food safety hazard. | Maintain continuous cold‑chain control at or below -18 °C and implement rapid temperature monitoring during handling. |
Freezer burn from inadequate packaging LogisticsMedium Whitefish blocks frozen with a liner can develop surface dehydration if the packaging is compromised, reducing product quality. | Use intact, moisture‑barrier liners and monitor packaging integrity during storage and transport. |
Tariff classification uncertainty PolicyMedium Whitefish blocks are classified under HS#030475, but differing Schedule‑B and HTS rates can create customs delays and cost variability. | Verify the correct tariff code for each shipment and maintain documentation to support classification. |
Whitefish Blocks Questions
- What exactly are Whitefish blocks?
- Whitefish blocks are frozen Alaska pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) fillets that are portioned and packaged as IQF (individually quick frozen) blocks with a protective liner.
- How should Whitefish blocks be stored and transported?
- They should be kept continuously frozen at standard freezer temperatures and protected from thaw‑freeze cycles during transport to preserve quality.
- Can Whitefish blocks be used directly in food processing?
- Yes, the IQF block format allows the fillets to be portioned or melted as needed for further processing such as breading, seasoning, or incorporation into ready‑to‑eat seafood products.