Spotlight project
ASC-MSC certification renewal
In 2021, Veramaris became the first microalgae oil producer to achieve certification to the joint ASC-MSC Seaweed/Algae Standard. This year we were pleased to see that Veramaris’ ASC-MSC certificate was renewed following a thorough recertification process.
In 2023, ASC released their Feed Standard. This standard is the first globally to cover environmental and social impacts of manufacturing operations, as well as the ingredients being used in feed. To achieve ASC certification, feed producers are required to responsibly source all major feed ingredients. As an ASC-MSC certified source of Omega-3 (EPA & DHA), Veramaris’ algal oil qualifies as an ‘eligible ingredient’ and offers feed producers and farmers a stable and reliable means of formulating their feed.
During the recertification of Veramaris’ algae facilities, no critical concerns were raised (for details see the publicly available audit report). Veramaris’ product remains the only independently certified algal oil on the market.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), aquaculture plays a vital role in global food security and is instrumental to meeting increasing global demands for nutritional food. It is therefore vital that this growth happens sustainably. The renewal of Veramaris’ certificate therefore comes at a crucial time.
Get the inside story from the project leader
“ASC-MSC certified algal oil can be a key ingredient in responsible feed.”
What effect does ASC-MSC Seaweed certification have on the aquaculture industry?
More than half the seafood eaten around the world is farmed. Aquaculture is a large, growing industry. When done responsibly, it provides one of our biggest opportunities to feed a growing population. While Veramaris’ recertification against the ASC-MSC Seaweed Standard seems a modest milestone on this global scale, it shows Veramaris’ commitment in contributing to a more sustainable future for aquaculture.
How does ASC help to ensure farmed fish are responsibly fed?
ASC envisions a world where seafood farming plays a major role in supplying healthy and responsible food, in supporting local communities while protecting and restoring biodiversity and the environment. For many species, responsible farming requires responsible feed. Through our ASC Feed Standard, we are driving feed mills to assure that every feed ingredient is risk assessed for impacts on people and our planet, and are meeting sustainability requirements.
Why is it important for alternative sources of EPA & DHA to be ASC-MSC certified?
MSC-ASC certified algal oil can be a key ingredient in responsible feed. It is encouraging to see how this opportunity is increasingly being recognised by many others within the industry!
