Seafood leaders tour Norway’s ASC certified salmon farms

European seafood leaders saw first-hand how ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) farms operate during a recent tour of northern Norway.

The ASC Discovery Tour took the delegation to Nordlaks and Kvarøy salmon farms, as well as Skretting’s feed facility, against the backdrop of the Vesterålen, Lofoten, and Helgeland islands.

The visit took in Nordlaks’ innovative Havfarm, which won ASC certification in 2021, along with more conventional farms, as participants explored how ASC standards are implemented.

Product quality

At the feed facility, discussions focused on how innovation in feed contributes to both sustainability and product quality.

Laetitia Rosing, ASC Norway market development manager, said, “ASC is expanding its engagement with the industry through our second Discovery Tour of Norway’s salmon farms, giving stakeholders the chance to see responsible aquaculture in action and the impact of our certification up close.

“This is a special opportunity to connect producers, processors, and buyers, while showing the growing demand for ASC certified salmon.

Responsible aquaculture

“Experiencing first-hand what responsible aquaculture looks like is more important than ever, especially with ASC’s recently released Farm Standard raising the bar for the entire industry.”

One of the visitors, Madalena Garrido, product manager of Pescanova Portugal, said taking part had been “an incredibly enriching experience”.

“I gained valuable insights into salmon, aquaculture, and sustainable farming, and I’m truly grateful for the warm hospitality, excellent organisation, and the chance to see the entire process up close.”