More factories that process forage fish have earned certification from MarinTrust, meeting enhanced environmental, social, and traceability requirements.

Net gains for sustainability as MarinTrust strengthens standards

The certification programme has increased its demands and the number of marine ingredients factories on its books

Published

MarinTrust, a certification programme for marine ingredients, has announced significant progress in the global transition to its newly enhanced Factory Standard, Version 3 (V3), which officially entered into force on May 1 last year.

V3 introduces strengthened requirements across environmental, social, and traceability domains, laying the foundation for fully traceable marine ingredients and promoting the use of by-products to reduce waste and improve resource efficiency. Marine ingredients are an important part of the mix of many salmon feeds, among other things.

The organisation said 72 facilities are now certified to Version 3, with 63 of these having successfully transitioned from Version 2 and nine obtaining it as their first MarinTrust certification last year.

Another 63 companies, some of which operate multiple facilities, are currently awaiting certification, and an additional 11 new facilities are in the pipeline for certification.

Greater accountability

Francisco Aldon, chief executive of MarinTrust, said: “Version 3 represents a bold step forward for the marine ingredients industry.

“With nearly half of the global production of fishmeal and fish oil already certified under MarinTrust, the new standard will drive even greater transparency and accountability across the supply chain. The growing global uptake shows a clear, shared commitment to a more sustainable industry.”

MarinTrust said the transition to V3 has been supported by a comprehensive programme of webinars, workshops, and guidance documents, ensuring that stakeholders are well-equipped to meet the updated requirements.

The standard also aligns with international best practices, including the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and International Labour Organisation conventions on labour rights.