Omega Protein’s operations in the Gulf of Mexico producing fish meal and fish oil have been recertified as sustainable by Friend of the Sea, an international sustainability certification program dedicated to the conservation of marine resources. Omega Protein, a nutritional product company and a leading integrated producer of omega-3 fish oil and specialty protein products, also holds the certification for sustainable Atlantic menhaden and has previously been certified for sustainable Gulf menhaden. Since 2008, Omega Protein’s Gulf of Mexico menhaden fishery has been certified “sustainable” by Friend of the Sea. Yesterday’s announcement marks the Company’s second recertification for its Gulf of Mexico operations.
This recertification once again affirms that Omega Protein’s procedures and products in the Gulf of Mexico meet Friend of the Sea’s strict criteria for sustainability. Friend of the Sea specifically recognized the Company’s use of selective fishing methods and sourcing from non-overexploited stocks, among other initiatives. According to a press release issued yesterday by Friend of the Sea, Omega Protein’s Gulf of Mexico operations boast a zero percent discard rate and very little bycatch, “thanks to a system aboard its vessels that allows larger, non-targeted fish to easily escape during the loading phase.”
“Sustainability is a core value at Omega Protein and this practice has allowed us to prosper for over a century. We are pleased that both of our Gulf and Atlantic menhaden fisheries have been recognized as sustainable by Friend of the Sea,” said Omega Protein President and CEO Bret Scholtes. “Friend of the Sea’s certification further emphasizes Omega Protein’s marine conservation and environmental protection efforts,” added Scholtes.
Omega Protein uses traceable practices to track its products derived from menhaden from the initial fishing to the finished product. This system of full traceability is used throughout the Company-owned, vertical supply chain and ensures the highest standards of quality control and sustainable sourcing.
Friend of the Sea’s recertification adds to a growing list of recent recognition for Omega Protein initiatives focused on product innovation and a commitment to the communities in which it operates. The Company’s recently released, inaugural Corporate Social Responsibility Report overviews Omega Protein’s century-long tradition of striving for the highest standards of sustainable sourcing, product manufacturing, and community service.
