ASC gains ground in Turkey
Karaçam trout farm in Turkey has gained ASC certification, after assessment by independent certifier AGFOCERT, as its owners bid to reach new markets.
Owned by Özpekler su Urunleri the site produces live, fresh, smoked and frozen trout, and currently exports its smoked trout fillets and frozen trout to Germany, Netherlands and Denmark.
''There are many reasons why we choose the ASC programme. Our ASC certification allows us to earn recognition for our work to protect the natural environment and biodiversity, and our policy to support our workers. The ASC standard is internationally accepted and we are glad to join a programme that supports responsible farm practices,'' said Bü?ra Evgin Güngör, Quality Manager of Özpekler.
''The ASC standard has made a huge impact in terms of protecting our water resources and improving the standards of our production as well as the health and welfare of the fish. Responsible farming means preserving the ecosystem and the environment without compromising the quality of our products. Our goal for the future is to gain ASC certification for all our farms so we can ensure our operations meet the highest levels of aquaculture production,” added Güngör.
''We are delighted to congratulate Özpekler for their accomplishment of receiving their first ASC certification. The demand for seafood is increasing, and the ASC is pleased to see that also Turkish trout producers see the value of following responsible aquaculture standards,'' said Esther Luiten, Senior Commercial Marketing Manager of the ASC.
Since the beginning of the year, ASC has welcomed certified farms from five new countries including Germany, the United States, and South Africa.
