Algal oil maker Veramaris wins first NASF sustainability award
Veramaris, which produces microalgae-derived omega-3 oil for salmon feed, has won the North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) Sustainability Award 2026, the inaugural presentation of the accolade recognising exceptional leadership and innovation in seafood sustainability. The announcement was made today during the NASF Sustainability Summit at NASF 2026, held in Bergen.
The award was established to spotlight organisations and initiatives that have demonstrably embedded sustainable practices into their core operations and contributed to positive environmental and social outcomes across the global seafood value chain.
NASF said Veramaris stood out among a strong field of seven nominees from across the seafood ecosystem, having added nearly 5% to global omega-3 supply since its commercial launch. A jury assessed nominees based on impact, innovation, scalability, and contribution to sustainability performance.
Along with Veramaris, the Seafood Carbon Emissions Profiling Tool (SCEPT) – a climate-focused initiative supporting carbon accounting across seafood supply chains – and the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) were shortlisted.
Demonstrated leadership
Veramaris was selected as the winner for its outstanding contribution to sustainable seafood practices and its demonstrated leadership in advancing industry-wide change.
“Salmon is a highly efficient animal protein and a cornerstone of healthy, low-carbon diets. Yet a single species consumes 40-45% of the world’s marine omega-3 supply, sourced from finite pelagic fisheries, many of which are fully exploited or overfished,” stated the jury.
“Veramaris addresses this challenge by producing EPA and DHA omega-3 through large-scale fermentation of marine microalgae, creating a fish-free alternative. Since its commercial launch, Veramaris has added nearly 5% to global EPA and DHA supply, easing pressure on the oceans.
“Veramaris is the first microalgae oil producer certified under the joint ASC–MSC Seaweed (Algae) Standard, ensuring its omega-3 for aquaculture and pet feed meets rigorous sustainability standards. The jury recognises Veramaris’ innovation as a transformative step in sustainable aquaculture feed production.”
Feed security
NASF board chairman Carl-Emil Johannesen said: “Veramaris shows how practical, scalable solutions can make seafood production more sustainable. By supplying reliable algae-based EPA and DHA as an alternative to traditional fish oil, the company reduces pressure on wild fisheries and strengthens feed security as global aquaculture continues to grow. This recognition reflects how focused, science-based work can drive real improvements across the seafood value chain.”
Vermaris is headquartered in Delft, Netherlands and produces its algal oil at a farmentation facility in Blair, Nebraska, in the United States.
