New ASC milestone
ASC labelled shrimp introduced by Queens is the first shrimp product to hit the shelves in the Netherlands, where Dutch consumers can choose from over 300 labelled products. Queens Stir Fry shrimp product is the 2,500th globally to come from an ASC certified responsibly managed farm.
ASC certified seafood is now available across 44 countries worldwide. This achievement was reached in less than three years after the first farm was certified in August 2012.
The number of ASC labelled products in the market has doubled in just over six months; and the number of farms involved in the ASC programme has doubled in the last year.
"It is splendid to see how our partners' efforts pay off. Due to their cooperation and diligent work there are now more than 2,500 ASC certified products available in the market offering consumers a responsible choice," Esther Luiten, ASC's Senior Commercial Marketing Manager, said.
"We are delighted to mark this milestone with a product from Queens, which has been such a long term supporter. ASC's growth is built on the commitment and support of the certified farms and companies in the ASC programme who offer consumers an environmentally and socially responsibly seafood choice.
"I want to thank all the companies and retailers that have included ASC labelled products in their ranges for their commitment. Through their efforts they are supporting well-managed farms and helping to meet the increasing demand for responsibly produced seafood. "
Responsibly produced shrimp
The shrimp in Queens Stir Fry natural 175g and Queens Stir Fry sweet chili 175g comes from the family-owned company OMARSA, based in Ecuador. OMARSA was the first shrimp producer to earn ASC certification. To gain ASC certification the farm took forward a number of initiatives, including mangrove restoration projects.
Sandro Coglitore, CEO of OMARSA, said: "We are very excited to start this partnership with a company such as Queens and to supply them with our ASC certified shrimp. And, we are confident this is just the beginning with some more ASC certified shrimp products to come in the near future."