November 21, 2007

UK pushes for natural antioxidants in organic fish feeds

UK's Soil Association pushed for the elimination of synthetic antioxidants in certified organic fish feeds.

Only natural antioxidants are now permitted in organic feeds and their ingredients.

This is the first time such a requirement was placed on any sector of the fish farming industry. The Soil Association set a four-month deadline since July 2007 and all those involved in the production of certified organic fish feeds and their ingredients have successfully switched to natural products.

After sourcing out potential natural products, the Soil Association set a deadline of July 1, when all antioxidants used in organic fish feeds and their raw materials must be natural.

Fishmeal and oil manufacturers, feed mills and various companies were able to develop natural antioxidant products which enabled the Soil Association to meet its target.

Peter Bridson, Soil Association Aquaculture Programme Manager, said it has been very satisfying to bring all the links of the supply chain to work on this project.

The Soil Association is UK's leading campaign and certification organisation for organic food and farming.