The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is set to launch Atlantic cod into its Programme in Q4 2025, following a successful stakeholder consultation.
Chris Ninnes, ASC CEO, said that “the certification of Atlantic cod marks an important milestone for ASC, demonstrating our ability to respond quickly to market demand for new species. “Demand for ASC-certified Atlantic cod is growing among both farmers and retailers. Integrating cod into the ASC Farm Standard demonstrates the flexibility of the Standard, ensuring it continues to evolve to meet the needs of producers, retailers, and consumers. By certifying Atlantic cod, ASC is helping improve farming practices, promote environmental responsibility, and support fair working conditions—delivering positive change across this growing sector of aquaculture.”
Atlantic cod will be added to the ASC Certification Programme, initially through a modified ASC Salmon Standard to enable immediate access to certification. Following a two-year transition period, cod will be fully integrated into the ASC Farm Standard V1.1, giving farmers time to adapt to new requirements.
Stakeholder consultation on catfish
ASC launched a 60-day consultation on September 17 regarding the inclusion of catfish into the ASC program. This specifically includes the catfish genera Clarias, Heterobranchus, Ictalurus, Ameiurus and Silurus.
ASC is seeking feedback on the overall suitability of the ASC Farm Standard in addressing the impacts of catfish farming as well as proposed species-specific metrics and indicators. Based on various inputs from experts and technical working groups, ASC believes that most existing indicators within the ASC Farm Standard are applicable to this species. However, specific metrics, such as those related to feed efficiency and fasting duration, require revision to account for physiological and production system differences.
Michiel Fransen, ASC Director of Standards and Science, said, “We’re especially looking for feedback on areas like sourcing, mortality limits, and fish health and welfare. The consultation process is vital to make sure the final requirements are not only scientifically robust but also practical and feasible for catfish farmers worldwide.”
To participate in the consultation and give your feedback and input on the addition of numerous catfish genera into the scope of the ASC program, visit this webpage.
