Co-op has announced a plan to transition 100% of its standard own-brand fresh and frozen farmed seafood range to Aquaculture Stewardship Council certification by 2027.
The supermarket said it has strengthened its commitment to responsible sourcing by partnering with the standard, which recognises responsible aquaculture, ensures transparency and traceability across the supply chain, and promotes farming that respects fish welfare, the environment, and the communities around farms.
Co-op’s own-brand fresh seabass is the first product to carry the ASC logo and is now in stores, whilst the remaining 18 lines, including fresh smoked salmon and whole prawns, will be completed over the next 15 months.
“Offering high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood on our shelves is at the heart of our commitment as a responsible retailer and moving 100% of our farmed fish to ASC by 2027 reflects the rigorous standards we have upheld since 2008, ensuring all seafood is sourced from well-managed farms and fisheries whilst minimising our impact on the marine environment,” said Sam Darley, fisheries and agriculture compliance at Co-op.
The move is part of the supermarket’s ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, traceability and responsible sourcing across its seafood supply chain, and builds on its support for the Marine Stewardship Council for wild seafood and RSPCA Assured for its premium Scottish salmon offer.
“Moving to 100% ASC-certified farmed seafood is great news for shoppers who want to choose change and support responsible aquaculture,” said Lief Hendrikz, marketing development manager UK&I for ASC. “Retailers play a vital role in driving positive progress, and Co-op’s move will help make responsibly farmed seafood more widely available across the UK.”
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