How stakeholder collaboration shaped the new ASC Farm Standard

February 24, 2025 - 2025 marks a pivotal year for Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) with three major updates to its programme. The updates reinforce ASC leadership in setting the standard for seafood and accelerating global progress in seafood farming through environmentally sustainable and socially responsible farms and feed mills.

The summary report from the final stakeholder consultation on the new ASC Farm Standard has now been published, alongside summary reports on consultations on the Feed Standard and the new Certification and Accreditation Requirements (CAR).

The Farm Standard consultation summary report highlights the comprehensive consultation process, stakeholder feedback and, crucially, how ASC is responding to suggestions and opinions expressed. Between March and June 2024, ASC conducted a range of consultation activities on the ASC Farm Standard, attracting 220 responses from various organisations around the world, including producers, CABs and auditors, NGOs and retailers. In addition, a total of 34 in-depth direct interviews with producers were held across the globe. A stakeholder survey was also conducted and received 622 responses.

ASC CEO Chris Ninnes expressed his gratitude, saying, "The overwhelming response we received to our consultations over the years reflects the dedication and commitment of our partners to driving meaningful change in the seafood farming industry. The new Farm Standard is the result of extensive consultation, brining together diverse stakeholder perspectives from around the world.

"The development of the ASC Farm Standard spanned more than five years and has been a monumental effort made possible by the collaboration and hard work of ASC staff, auditors, NGOs, farmers, retailers and many other partners. Their collective input has helped shape a standard that provides greater consistency across the species we certify, embraces the innovation that has become established in seafood farming and addresses shortcomings inherent in the legacy standards.

"With the addition of dedicated coverage of animal welfare and recognising advances in how to address social and environmental impacts, the Farm Standard will support the industry's transformation toward greater sustainability and accountability. The ASC Farm Standard is truly a testament to the power of collaboration and industry-wide effort."

The ASC Farm Standard: a product of industry collaboration

The new ASC Farm Standard unifies previous species-specific standards into a single, streamlined framework built around four core principles: legal compliance and effective business management; environment stewardship; respecting and promoting human rights; and responsible animal health and welfare practices.

ASC is committed to actively listening to stakeholder feedback and ensuring that the Farm Standard is practical and supportive of producers. Since 2019, ASC received 1111 responses from stakeholders to numerous consultations on proposed ASC Farm Standard content.

To refine the Standard, ASC focused the 2024 consultation on key areas requiring further input such as greenhouse gas emissions, animal health and welfare and human rights, using a range of interactive consultation methods including:

• online surveys;
• one-to-one interviews with products;
• a desk-based auditability evaluation;
• interactive workshops;
• and an open email feedback system.

Stakeholders provided significant feedback on both the benefits and challenges of the new Standard which have been carefully considered. Thy praised the content, usability and marketability of the ASC Farm Standard especially towards sustainability-conscious buyers. The ASC Farm Standard was also rated highly for clarity and addressing human rights issues.

To support the transition to the ASC Farm Standard, stakeholders emphasised the need for more tools, training, guidance and greater regional flexibility. Additionally, producers called for simplified requirements, clearer language and more precise indicators in certain areas to enhance accessibility and ease of implementation.

To support producers, there is a two-year transition period in place before the Farm Standard becomes mandatory in May 2027. In response to the feedback, ASC is also providing additional support and training and has simplified a number of key requirements. The new Standard also offers greater flexibility, recognising the importance of local contexts.

Aligning Feed Standard v1.1 to the new ASC Farm Standard

To align feed to farm reporting data with the upcoming ASC Farm Standard and EU legislative requirements, ASC launched a stakeholder consultation on proposed updates to the Feed Standard between September and November 2024. The consultation received 44 survey responses, including feedback from 18 feed mills.

stakeholders broadly supported the proposals for improving environmental accountability, including species-specific GHG reporting and expanded deforestation-free standard. Key discussions focused on feasibility, flexibility and alignment. Clear guidance, transparency and phased implementation were highlighted as crucial for practical and effective adoption.

The Feed Standard v1.1 includes post-consultation changes to greenhouse gas reporting requirements in recognition of data limitations. Other changes include enhancements to the ASC Greenhouse Gas Calculator, adding additional clarity on its methods and data sources, along with added flexibility to deforestation/conversion cutoffs for lower-risk ingredients.

CAR: assurance requirements supporting the ASC Farm Standard

The CAR outlines the assurance requirements and processes that will support the ASC Farm Standard and the ASC Feed Standard certification programmes. In a stakeholder consultation that was opened between September to October 2024, ASC received 22 responses, including feedback from nine Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) and auditors.

The new version of the CAR includes a number of improvements including streamlining the audit process from application to certification, simplification of Group Requirements, updates to critical non-conformity actions, amendments to auditor and CAB personnel competency, and an amended unannounced audit programme based on number of clients.

2025: a landmark year for ASC and our stakeholders

All three programmes will be launched in 2025: The ASC Farm Standard will launch in Q2 with a two-year transition period, the ASC Feed Standard v1.1 will be published in Q2 and take effect in November, and the new CAR version will also become effective within the year to be available to use alongside the new Standards.

ASC Director of Policy and Programme Management Suzi Keshavarz said, "We are very grateful to our stakeholders for taking the time to share feedback. Through our collaborative and rigorous consultation efforts, ASC has been able to ensure that our stakeholders' insights have been fully considered in finalising the new ASC Farm Standard and the CAR>

"We look forward to further insights from the pilot audits as we move forward."

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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AquaFarm, NovelFarm and AlgaeFarm: growth and increased attendance reward the events return

February 18, 2025 - The eight edition of AquaFarm successfully ended, marking the return of the unified event with NovelFarm and AlgaeFarm - respectively at theri sixth and fourth editions - under a single trade event at the Pordenone exhibition centre. The decision to bring together the three events has generated strong interest among operators and the public, leading to a significant increase in attendance: visitors increased by 30% compared to the 2024 edition.

The event saw the participation of over 110 exhibitors (on 7000 m2 of exhibition space) from Italy and abroad, confirming the central role of Pordenone Fiere as a point of reference for the sectors of aquaculture, innovation in plant and algae cultivation. The conference programme recorded an extraordinary participation, with 20 sessions and over 150 speakers who discussed the most current issues of the sector, from sustainability to food safety, up to new technologies for production and farms management.

Thanks to the collaboration with ICE Agency, this edition welcomed a delegation of 30 top international buyers from Brazil, North Africa, the Balkans and Greece, joined by other delegations, especially from the Baltic countries.

Renato Pujattti, President of Pordenone Fiere, stated: "We are proud that also this year the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry has chosen to participate in Aquafarm to reaffirm its commitment to promoting the fish sector. Masaf was present at the fair witha dedicated exhibition area, a conference room and a show cooking arena to promote the quality and sustainability of Italian fish products. Conferences, meetings and in-depth discussions addressed the crucial challenges of the sector: from the effects of climate change to the fight against 'fake seafood', up to the management of invasive species. Aquafarm, thanks to the collaboration with Masaf, confirms itself as an opportunity for operators to discuss innovation and development, and for visitors and young people to learn about an extraordinary sector".

Among the moments of greatest interest for AquaFarm, the sessions dedicated to sustainability in aquaculture, energy self-sufficiency and innovative solutions for the decarbonisation of the sector stand out. We also underline the sessions "Aquaculture and added value fishing products" with the leaders of the fishing supply chain as protagonists, along with the "EU-FEAMPA" session on European innovations that impact the sector.

NovelFarm attracted great public attention for the opening theme 'Indoor farming in Italy: technological greenhouses, vertical farms, urban agriculture between regulations, investments and the market', where players, consultants and representatives of the academic world took turns to discuss the evolution of controlled agriculture in urban environments.

Another moment of great interest was, with the closing of AlgaeFarm, characterised by the round table on the future of the algae supply chain, which explored the opportunities and challenges for the sector, from the food and the pharmaceutical field.

Matteo Leonardi, President of API - Associazione Piscicoltori Italiani, (Italian Fish-Farmers Association) declared: "These two days of AquaFarm 2025 that have just ended have been intense and extraordinary. Full of meetings, exchanges, emotions; we participated in conferences, hosted moments of dialogue, offered the delicacies of Italian aquaculture, trying to highlight the diversity of the species farmed. Two special moments were the delivery of the Davide Menozzi Award and the presentation of the first manual on the well-being of farmed fish. A huge thank you therefore goes to the members, professionals, friends, visitors and organisers of AquaFarm, for continuing on the path towards an aquaculture capable of offering healthy and sustainable food for all".

During NovelFarm, news arrived from the United States of the death of Dickson Despommier, the recognized father of the modern concept of Vertical Farm, divulged in the famous 2010 book 'The Vertical Farm: Feeding the World in the 21st Century'. The book, reprinted in numerous editions, is credited, by all entrepreneurs and professionals in the sector, as the source of inspiration that gave life to a global cultural and economic movement. Dickson inaugurated the first edition of AquaFarm, which included conference events, later evolved into NovelFarm, with a memorable presentation that marked an era in our country, visited for the first time by the American luminary. The NovelFarm team and the entire Italian soilless community celebrates and remembers him with gratitude and affection.

AquaFarm, NovelFarm and AlgaeFarm therefore confirm themselves as an essential event for the sector, capable of attracting more and more operators and the public thanks to a format that combines exhibition, high-level professional updating and business opportunities.

On the official website of the event, you can consult the detailed programme where the presentations and the proceedings of the conference sessions will be published shortly.

The appointment is for February 18 and 19 2026, with the ninthedition of AquaFarm, which will always be held at Pordenone Fiere, still in a unified format with NovelFarm and AlgaeFarm.

The Aquaculturists

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Early bird pricing for Blue Food Innovation Summit to end soon

February 17, 2025 - Early bird pricing ends February 20 for the Blue Food Innovation Summit in London on April 8-9.

As climate change continues to disrupt global supply chains, the summit will spotlight adaptation strategies across aquaculture, seafood and advanced feed solutions that will drive resilience and ensure sustainable, nutritious aquatic food production for future generations. 

Join leading aquaculture producers, technology innovators, investors and regulators for two days of high-level discussions on how technology and investment can be leveraged for climate-positive impact on the global blue food value chain.

Use our bespoke discount code IA10 to receive an additional 10% off the ticket price! Offer ends midnight GMT on February 20.

Register now HERE.

For more information, visit HERE. 

The Aquaculturists

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Presentation of Adisseo in the SustainED Workshop in Ecuador

February 14, 2025 - On January 22 of this year, the workshop entitled Animal Health: Prevention, Control and Management of Diseases was held at the Hilton Hotel in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador. 

This workshop was organised by the Sustainable Shrimp Partnership (SSP) and is part of the SustainED training program, which is aimed at education for the sustainable development of the shrimp industry in Ecuador, with the objective of promoting the principles of sustainability applied to the shrimp sector, guaranteeing the protection and conservation of the environment, social and animal welfare, and the delivery of a healthy and high-quality product to consumers.

This workshop addressed a critical issue for both the shrimp industry and public health: antimicrobial resistance. In order to promote antibiotic-free aquaculture, SSP shared the strategies, solutions and knowledge that its founding members, associate members and other industry players have to prevent, control and manage diseases in shrimp. 

This workshop had eight sessions, in one of which Adisseo SAS participated with the topic 'Improving shrimp health and production performance through the application of feed additives' presented by MSc Gilberto Hernández-Gonzalez, Regional Manager of Aquaculture in Latam, talked about the importance of using functional additives in shrimp production to reduce the impact of diseases with a responsible and sustainable way, and the implementation of strategies in the application of additives to maximise the effect and increase the profitability of crops, showing results from the field with the real problematic currently faced by the shrimp farmers.

This event was attended by around 100 people, all of them related to the shrimp industry: producers, feed manufacturers, consultants, suppliers, etc. All with the objective of exchanging experiences and strengthening good practices in the sector.

The Aquaculturists

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King Street and Tor provide $110 million financing to Soul of Japan

February 6, 2025 - King Street Capital Management and Tor Investment Management today announced a $110 million financing solution for Soul of Japan (SOJ), a 10KT land-based Atlantic salmon farm project in Tsu City, Japan. SOJ is backed by 8F Asset Management.

The financing will support the ongoing construction of the SOJ farm and the ultimate completion of the project, which commenced in 2023 and is progressing, with the first harvest expected in mid-2027. King Street and Tor's financing is underpinned by strong aquaculture market demand, particularly as wild fish stock levels continue to decline. Once the project is completed, SOJ will operate a state-of-the-art recirculating aquaculture system and be the largest land-based facility in Asia, effectively establishing a locally produced supply of Atlantic salmon for a market that has traditionally relied exclusively on imported product.

"We are excited to partner with both the Tor and SOJ teams to support the growing demand for sustainably sourced, high-quality Atlantic salmon to the Japanese market and beyond," said Zachary Lewis, Managing Director at King Street. "This underscores King Street's global ability to leverage deep sponsor relationships and sourcing channels to provide compelling risk-adjusted special situations financings in our Global Drawdown Strategy."

"Tor is proud to collaborate with King Street and SOJ on funding for this significant project in Japan, which will continue the regional growth of critical infrastructure, developing the supply of sustainable protein with efficient use of resources,"said Sean Pepper, Managing Director at Tor. "This transaction demonstrates our ability to source and structure flexible private debt solutions for quality sponsors under our Tor Asia Credit Opportunity Fund platform with attractive returns and meaningful downside protection."

"We are thrilled to partner with King Street and Tor to continue growing Soul of Japan and to complete the construction of its land-based salmon farm project in Japan," said Karim Ghannam, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer at 8F. "This transaction is another validation of our strategy and its advanced implementation. We look forward to working with both King Street and Tor to supply Japan with locally produced Atlantic salmon and to further the expansion of Pure Salmon globally."

The Aquaculturists

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AquaFarm 2025: decarbonisation, biodiversity protection and circularity

January 21, 2025 - The different ways in which aquaculture is effectively reducing its impact on the planet will open and close the conference programme of the eighth edition of AquaFarm, the international exhibition-conference dedicated to aquaculture and the sustainable fishing industry, scheduled for February 12-13, at Pordenone Fiere.

With 51% of total production, farming is now the main source of fish, crustaceans and shellfish for human consumption. This figure, certified by the FAO, is set to increase in order to offer the growing world population healthy and safe food. It is therefore not surprising that researchers, industry investors and farmers are committed to reducing the impact of this increasingly important activity, so that it can continue to develop without damaging the planet.

'Aquaculture for the planet' is in fact the title of the opening session of the conference programme of this year's Fair. The protection of biodiversity and peaceful coexistence with the rest of the environment, especially in marine farming are issues of the utmost relevance today. The Andalusian Livestock Farmers' Association wants to demonstrate that such simultaneity is possible, with the candidacy of the Bay of Cadiz district as the first Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) of the aquaculture sector in the world. The GIAHS certification rewards food production systems that integrate tradition, ties with local communities and economic sustainability.

Energy is crucial for aquaculture. When electricity and gas prices soared three years ago, many farms, especially on land, entered into crisis. Although the situation is less critical now, farmers have learned valuable lessons. Self-production for self-consumption is the goal: biogas obtained from wastewater and by-products or electricity produced through various photovoltaic solutions, including floating ones, complaint with current technologies and regulations. Alessandra Scognamiglio, coordinator of the ENEA Sustainable Agriboltaic task force and President of the Italian Association for Sustainable Agrivoltaics, will talk about this possibility.

Some go further, like Nutritech, which has developed an aquaponic farming system (fish and vegetables) that is completely autonomous from an energy point of view, based on renewable sources. The system, currently market ready, is managed by an artificial intelligence that monitors environmental parameters and takes action when necessary. The plant is also capable of self-producing oxygen, used for management and hydrogen, which powers a fuel cell.

Replicating the same level of autonomy at sea is not possible, but a lot can be done. Integrated multitrophic aquaculture, which will be illustrated by CREA with the BlueBoost project, involves the breeding of different aquatic species belonging to multiple trophic levels in the same production site, for example fish of high commercial value (sea bass, sea bream, grey mullet), filter-feeding shellfish (mussels, clams, oysters), detritivorous invertebrates (sea cucumber) and autotrophic species (macroalgae). The excreta of one species constitute the food of another. In this way, high productivity is obtained with low environmental impact.

It is in fact the valorisation of all the resources of a system the basis of circularity in farming, at the centre of the closing session of the official AquaFarm program. We will start with the increasingly widespread use of fish processing waste for feed, reducing its impact of fishing. Enrico Bachis, Market Research Director of IFFO - International Fish Feed Organisation, will talk about it. Along the same lines, but with 'terrestrial' resources, the WIN4FEED - Waste & Insect for Feed project by Fondazione Mach works, aiming to use the by-products of food processing as a growth medium for insect larvae, a source of protein for fish feed. Instead of insects, the research by the University of Verona talks about microbes, with aim to modify anaerobic digesters for biogas to use the gestate as a substrate for the microbial production of proteins for feed.

For the circular trout farming project CircularRainbow, coordinated by the University of Udine, the material to be reused as much as possible is water. Trout farms on dry land throughout Europe have to deal with a greater irregularity in the availability of running water. The project therefore aims to recirculate water in a largely closed system. A further advantage of this solution is the possibility of recovering waste waters and sludge to feed them into biogas digesters and thus improve the energy balance of the farms. The session closes with a novelty among farming techniques: vertical haloponics (aquaponics in brackish water), which combines hydroponics, vertical farming and closed-cycle farming. In the version developed by the University of Padua, salt-tolerant plant species are grown in vertical hydroponics and used as food for shrimp. The sludge from the system is treated using vermicomposting techniques and valorised as bio fertiliser. Eartworms are finally used as a food supplement for the shrimp, closing the circle. 

for more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Pontus Research celebrates 10 years

January 21, 2025 - Pontus Research Ltd., a global leader in aquaculture R&D, marked its 10th anniversary on November 25, 2023. Founded by Dr. Jack James, whose passion for marine science began in his teens, the company has become a prominent name in addressing the aquaculture sector's challenges of sustainability, efficiency, and cost management.

The growing global demand for fish and seafood has led to a rapid expansion of aquaculture, underscoring the need for innovative research to develop sustainable practices. Pontus Research plays a crucial role in addressing these demands by improving aquaculture feeds, enhancing fish growth, and promoting sustainable alternatives to traditional fishmeal and fish oil.

Cutting-Edge Facilities for R&D

Pontus Research has invested significantly in state-of-the-art facilities in the UK to support its mission. These purpose-built Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) are designed for trials on a wide variety of species, including salmon, trout, tilapia, carp, and ornamental fish. With precise control over water temperature, salinity, and lighting, Pontus can ensure accurate and repeatable results.

In 2020, Pontus completed a major expansion of its facilities, adding a pilot-scale feed mill that allows the team to design, manufacture, and test experimental feeds in-house and for external clients. The feed mill includes advanced equipment like a twin-screw extruder and systems for vacuum coating, drying, and quality control. This ensures that feeds meet exact specifications and are ready for market testing.

Expansion to Southeast Asia

In 2021, Pontus expanded its reach by establishing a research centre in Singapore at the Marine Aquaculture Centre on St. John’s Island. This facility is strategically positioned to cater to the Southeast Asian aquaculture market, focusing on trials for tropical species. The Singapore centre provides cost-effective R&D services tailored to regional needs while maintaining Pontus’s high global standards. In leveraging its expertise and extensive network, Pontus has partnered with corporations, governments, and start-ups in the region to address the growing demand for sustainable aquaculture solutions.

Innovations in Aquaculture Feeds and Health

Pontus Research is at the forefront of sustainable feed development, testing alternatives such as insect, algae and microbial derived ingredients. Its studies evaluate feed performance through growth rates, nutrient digestibility, palatability, and more addressing industry-wide issues, such as finding sustainable, cost-effective replacements for fishmeal and fish oil.

The company also collaborates with partners to develop solutions for disease prevention, including probiotics and phytogenic additives, which are critical in larviculture and high-density farming. Additionality to trials which can help determine and valorise such health benefits of feed ingredients and additives include MALT histology, haematocrit and haematology, intestinal microbiome analysis, gene expression and resilience to challenge by pathogens or stress.

A Decade of Success and Beyond

As Pontus Research reflects on a decade of innovation, the company celebrates the dedication of its team and its ability to overcome global challenges over the past few years. With its advanced facilities, diversified service offerings and growing global presence, Pontus remains committed to driving aquaculture innovation and meeting the rising demand for sustainable seafood worldwide.

The Aquaculturists

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Cefas showcases facilities to South Dorset MP

January 16, 2025 - South Dorset MP, Lloyd Hatton visited the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) laboratory in Weymouth on Friday, exploring the organisation's cutting-edge research facilities and meeting with leading scientists.

Rachel Hartnell, Cefas Science Director; Lloyd Hatton, MP; Neil Hornby, Cefas Chief Executive and Grant Stentiford, Cefas Chief Scientist

Cefas, an executive agency of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), conducts vital research in fish health, aquaculture, sustainable seafood production and seafood safety at its Weymouth laboratory on The Nothe. Cefas' headquarters is in Lowestoft, Suffolk.

A highlight of the visit included hearing about Cefas' specialist aquarium facilities, where scientists study diseases affecting fish, crustacea and shellfish. This unique research helps protect aquatic animal health and welfare, supporting both wild and farmed species.

During the visit, Mr Hatton toured the laboratories and heard from scientists about how Cefas' work supports the UK government and international commitments to the important issues of food safety, sustainable aquaculture, fish health and antimicrobial resistance. Mr Hatton had the opportunity to see first-hand the advanced research capabilities that make Cefas a world-renowned centre of excellence in aquatic sciences. The MP also heard about how the Fish Health Inspectorate, based at the lab, helps to maintain the high aquatic animal health status in England and Wales, working closely with fish farmers to support healthy and productive fish farms.

Cefas' Chief Executive, Neil Hornby, said: "As one of the larger employers in the area and with our roots in Weymouth dating back to the 1960s, engaging with local stakeholders, community groups and our neighbours is important to us.

"It has been a pleasure to welcome Lloyd Hatton MP to our Weymouth laboratory. His visit was an opportunity to showcase the science expertise that we use to support a sustainable future for our rivers, seas and the ocean, in the UK and internationally; as well as sharing our ambition to engage the next and future generations of aquatic scientists."

Mr Hatton said: "It was excellent to tour the Cefas facility and get a glimpse of their cutting-edge studies and research. The pioneering team at Cefas are doing so much to protect our changing environment and support the fishing and shellfish industry - we're fortunate to have them based here in Weymouth."

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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EABA and DLG Benelux sign agreement to strengthen collaboration

January 14, 2025 - During the AlgaEurope 2024 conference, taking place in Athens from December 10-13, the organisers; the European Algae Biomass Association (EABA) and DLG Benelux have signed an agreement to strengthen collaboration for the Seagriculture EU Conference, taking place annually in rotating locations in Europe.

Both companies have been successfully organising the AlgaEurope Conference together since 2015, attracting some 425 delegates.

You may also be interested in:

• Climate change leader Professor Tim Flannery to open Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2025

The general objective of the European Algae Biomass Association (EABA) is to promote mutual interchange and cooperation in the field of algae biomass production and uses in all thinkable applications.

EABA aims at creating, developing and maintaining solidarity and links between its members and at defending their interest at European and international level. Its main target is to act as a catalyst for fostering synergies among scientists, industrialists and decision makers in order to promote the development of research, technology and industrial capacities in the field of Algae.

DLG Benelux has been organising Seagriculture for over 14 years and each year the conference gathers top speakers, sharing their know-how within seaweed for feed, food, offshore cultivation, biorefinery of seaweed and much more. 

The Seagriculture conference has built up a solid reputation as the leading conference for the seaweed industry, the Seagriculture conference in Europe has been successfully organised since 2012.

Carlos Unamunzaga, President of EABA, states: "As the leading association for algae in Europe, EABA is dedicated to supporting its members in both the macroalgae and microalgae sectors. Signing the agreement with DLG Benelux to foster closer collaboration around the Seagriculture Conference will undoubtedly contribute to this mission and further enhance the association's efforts to advance the algae industry."

Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director of DLG Benelux, states: "For many years, we have enjoyed a successful collaboration with EABA. Partnering with EABA for the Seagriculture Conference will create an even stronger platform, enabling us to further develop the conference and connect with an even broader network of industry players. Furthermore, I believe it's a great example of collaboration which is so much needed in the sector."

The next edition is scheduled for June 17-29, 2025, and will take place in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Cargill (EWOS) Canada and Mowi Feed round off strong year of ASC Feed Certification

January 13, 2025 - Cargill (EWOS) Canada became the first ASC certified feed company in Canada. Their feed mill, operating out of Surrey, British Columbia, produces feed for a variety of species, including trout, salmon, seabass, seabream and meagre, seriola, cobia and tilapia. Cargill Canada's ASC feed certification is a key step forward for the supply of responsible feed to farms across North America and the Pacific Rim.

Feed being distributed at an ASC certified trout farm in North America

Mowi Feed has also achieved ASC feed certification for both its facilities in Scotland and Norway. Operating our of Kyleakin on the east coast of the Isle of Skye, Scotland, and Valsneset in central-western Norway, respectively, their state-of-the-art feed mills produce feed for salmon. Both ASC feed certifications for Mowi Feed reflect further progress for responsible salmon farming in the UK and Norway.

You may also be interested in: 

• ASC concludes 2024 Discovery Tours on Chilean shores
• Cargill becomes first in Canada to achieve ASC certification

ASC drives farmed seafood transformation by leveraging expertise, fostering innovation and partnering with the supply chain to amplify impact. These recent certifications, alongside all other certifications and commitments achieved since the launch of the ASC Feed Standard, play a pivotal role in this mission of transforming the industry towards greater environmental and social responsibility.

There are now 16 Units of Certification in the ASC Feed programme (comprising 22 individual certified feed mill sites) across numerous countries including Canada, Chile, Ecuador, Honduras, Mexico, Norway, Thailand, Vietnam and the UK, displaying the strong global uptake of the ASC feed certification programme.

A diverse mix of multinational and regional companies have achieved ASC Feed certification showing that complying with its robust requirements is accessible and achievable. With numerous further feed companies in the initial audit phase, 2025 is already shaping up to be another strong year of ASC Feed Certification uptake.

ASC certified farms have until October 31, 2025, to ensure their feed supply is ASC-conforming - in other words, feed produced by mills that are certified against the ASC Feed Standard. The use of ASC-conforming feed is necessary for ASC certified farms to continue meeting the ASC Farm Standard and retain their certification.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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World Aquaculture Society announces 2025 events

January 10, 2025 - The aquaculture industry is constantly growing and expanding with new events popping up all over the world for people to gather and discuss the industry and its advancements, and 2025 is no different to previous years, with a range of events from the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) taking place all over the world, allowing those in the industry to get involved no matter where they live.

Aquaculture 2025 - New Orleans, USA - March 6-10, 2025

Every three years, the Triennial is held somewhere in the United States. In 2025, the Triennial returns to sunny New Orleans - one of America's favourite cities. The Triennial is the largest aquaculture conference and trade show with nearly 4000 attendees from over 90 countries. The Triennial is the largest aquaculture conference and trade show with nearly 4000 attendees from over 90 countries. 

The Triennial combines the annual meetings of the National Shellfisheries Association, Fish Culture Section of the American Fisheries Society, World Aquaculture Society and the National Aquaculture Association. In addition to the annual meetings of the main sponsors, look what else is happening at Aquaculture 2025 with the annual meeting of USAS, the US Chapter of World Aquaculture Society and the Aquaculture Suppliers Association, the annual Meeting of the US Trout Farmers Association, the special sessions organised by Aquacultural Engineering Society and International Association of Aquaculture Economics and Management and many other meetings of working groups, government agencies and related aquaculture activities. 

The brochure and abstract are available here.

For booth information, visit HERE.

World Aquaculture 2025 China - Qingdao, China - April 24-27, 2025

Qingdao plays an important role in China's maritime development with its advanced marine economy, robust marine industry and strong foundation in marine fishery, marine equipment manufacturing and marine transportation. Ocean University of China, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, the Institute of Oceanography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences located here.

WA25 China event page is online now, find all details in the brochure.

Plenary Speaker - Dr Manuel Barange

Dr Manuel Barange is Assistant Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and Director of its Fisheries and Aquaculture Division. He is an Honorary Professor at the University of Exeter, UK, and a visiting Professor of the Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute (CAFS), Qingdao, China. Professor Barange was the Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of Science at the Plymouth Marine Laboratory and Chair of the scientific committee of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). He is a global fisheries and aquaculture expert, with particular focus on climate and anthropogenic impacts on marine ecosystems and on the role of aquatic foods in ending hunger and poverty. He has over 130 academic publications, and in 2010 was awarded the UNESCO-IOC Roger Revelle Medal for his contributions to ocean science.

If you wish you are able to submit your abstract or block your booth.

The brochure is also available here.

World Aquaculture 2025 Safari - Entebbe, Ugana - June 24-27, 2025

The biggest aquaculture meeting in Africa will be held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, Uganda (near Entebbe) with involvement from countries throughout Africa and the world. East Africa is the fastest growth node for aquaculture on the African continent. This is predominantly as a result of the farming of tilapia, but several other species contribute to the sector. East Africa is also a world leading region in the farming of seaweed, with exciting developments around several other marine species such as sea cucumber and more. The EU-funded TRUEFISH Project, which seeks the advancement of aquaculture in the Lake Victoria Basin was a major sponsor of the meeting.

For more information, visit HERE.

Aquaculture Europe 2025 - Valencia, Spain - September 22-25, 2025

Developing social license and promoting not only the production and commercialisation of high quality and health aquatic feeds, but also the ecosystem services that aquaculture provides, are key features of AE2025 - giving value to each and every person in Spain and throughout Europe.

The AE2025 parallel session will cover the full scope of European aquaculture scientific disciplines and species and will comprise submitted oral and poster presentations. AE2025 will also feature an international trade exhibition, industry forum, student sessions and activities, satellite workshops and updates on EU research.

Find more information on the conference and schedule of the event in the brochure. 

Click here for abstract submission (before May 1).

75% of the booths at the exhibition have already sold. Contact mario@marevent.com for updates and sponsorship opportunities.

Latin American & Caribbean Aquaculture 2025 - Puerto Varras, Chile - October 6-9, 2025

The event page will be online soon. Please contact Carolina for more information.

The Aquaculturists

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Aker Qrill Company announces next vessel

January 8, 2025 - Aker Qrill Company has announced an agreement with Tersan Shipyard to construct its fourth state-of-the-art krill fishing vessel. This agreement involves the purchase and significant rebuild of a project that was cancelled 18 months ago, and secures continued sustainable supplies of feed and raw materials from Antarctic krill, recognised as the world's largest single-species biomass.

The agreement marks a milestone for both Aker Qrill Company and Tersan Shipyard. For Aker Qrill Company, the new vessel is a vital step forward in its mission to provide sustainable, premium nutrition and to further strengthen its position in the krill industry. For Tersan Shipyard, the agreement finds a buyer for a vessel that was essentially completed in 2023.

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"This partnership represents an ideal solution for both parties," says Webjørn Barstad, CEO of Aker Qrill Company. "Adding a fourth vessel to our fleet is crucial for our success as we enter the next phase of growth and development. Equipped with the latest and most advanced technologies, this vessel will bolster our ambition to maintain our leadership position in the krill industry and ensure access to renewable and sustainable marine raw materials - vital to meet the growing global demand for sustainable marine feed ingredients with excellent nutritional qualities."

The vessel will undergo significant rebuilding and customisation to meet the specialised requirements of Aker Qrill Company, creating several important contracts for Norwegian maritime suppliers and further strengthening the company's ties to local expertise and innovation. Connected to the project Aker Qrill Company also works with significant advances in the use of alternative fuels.

Vice President Ahmet Paksu of Tersan Shipyard expresses his satisfaction with the agreement: "We are glad to finally find a solution to a challenge we have been working hard to solve. This partnership provides valuable opportunities for both parties and we are grateful for the chance to complete and deliver this vessel. Partnering with Aker Qrill Company, the global leader in sustainable krill fishery, aligns perfectly with our vision of innovation and excellence."

The vessel will operate under a Norwegian fisheries license in the CCAMLR krill fishery starting in the third quarter of 2026.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Nofima begins testing automatic removal of nematodes

January 3, 2025 - Researchers and technology companies are working together to remove nematodes - also known as fish worms - from white fish. 

"This challenging project to automate nematode removal, called Nematode-Trim, aims to make the fishing industry more efficient and profitable," says senior scientist Karsten Heia at Nofima. He leads the Nematode-Trim project, which is funded by FHF - the Norwegian Seafood Research Fund. "In this project we run a feasibility study to evaluate different relevant technologies for nematode removal", says Heia.

The current method is time-consuming and inefficient

This project began when the white fish industry looked for novel technology to automate nematode removal. NMBU, Maritech, Marel and Lerøy Norway SeaFoods are working with Nofima to find solutions.

The current manual method for removing nematodes in fish fillets is both time-consuming and inefficient. Usually, each fillet is placed on a light table where trimmers manually remove the parasites with a knife.

"This manual method often wastes perfectly good fish meat," the Nofima scientist states.

Two innovative solutions

Nofima, together with Maritech, has already developed a method for detecting nematodes in fish fillets using Maritech Eye. Maritech Eye is a new technology that makes it possible to evaluate fish quality by scanning it using visible and infrared light. Now this technology will be combined with yet another innovation to remove the nematodes in the same operation as they are detected.

"The Nematode-Trim project explores two innovative solutions for automating nematode removal: a water cutter from Marel and a robotic solution being developed by NMBU. These technologies are now being tested to see how effective they are, how much fish meat is saved and whether they can be integrated into existing production lines," explains Karsten Heia.

Marel's FleXicut is already used to remove bones in white fish and cut cod fillets into different portions. Now it may be adapted to also remove nematodes. The system uses water jets to cut through the fish fillet and divide it into different parts and sizes. 

"The parts of the fillet containing nematodes will be sorted into a separate product flow for further processing, such as manual trimming or freezing. This ensures that only clean fillet parts continue in the production line. This leads to increased efficiency and reduces waste," says Heia.

NMBU is in the process of developing a solution based on robotic arms equipped with specialised tools to remove the parasites.

"These robots will use data from Maritech Eye to locate and remove parasites with high precision. The system will be tested to ensure it can operate effectively on a moving conveyor belt," says Heia.

Important step towards a more efficient and profitable fish industry

According to the researcher, costs can be reduced and product yield increased by automating nematode removal. He believes this will provide economic benefits for both technology developers and fish producers. In the long term, the technology can also be adapted for other fish species, which further increases its value.

"The Nematode-Trim project represents an important step towards a more efficient and profitable fish industry. By combining advanced imaging technology with innovative automation solutions, the project hopes to set a new standard for quality and efficiency in fish production," says Karsten Heia.

For more information, visit HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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