From May 1, 2024, any new applicants to the MarinTrust Programme for responsible sourcing and production of marine ingredients must apply for audits against the new version of its Factory Standard (Version 3). A transition period of one year allows current certificate holders to prepare for audits. It is expected that all companies will be certified against the new version from May 1, 2025. As of April 2024, 172 sites in 30 different countries comply with the MarinTrust Standard. 

This new version lays the foundations for fully traceable marine ingredients and progresses the standard's focus on environmental and social impacts, both at the factory and on the vessels supplying whole fish. It also aims to increase accessibility for responsibly sourced and produced marine ingredients and encourage the use of byproducts. The approval of V3 comes at the end of a rigorous development process, including pilot assessments across the world and feedback from auditors, certified companies, and other key marine ingredient stakeholders to enhance the consistency and efficiency of audits.

MarinTrust has published a range of supporting documents to support stakeholders. There is also guidance for the transition of the recognition of standards and the transition periods and criteria changes for both byproduct assessments and whole fish fishery assessments.

“This new version encompasses a bold step for our industry and value chain, and we are extremely proud of all the work that has gone into its development. With around six million tonnes of marine ingredients, mostly fishmeal and fish oil, produced globally, 48% of which are, to date, certified against the MarinTrust Standard, this new version will have a hugely positive impact around the world,” said Francisco Aldon, CEO of MarinTrust.