November 25, 2024

 

Salmofood achieves ASC Feed certification for sustainable practices

Salmofood, a Vitapro brand based in Chile, has attained ASC Feed certification for its production facility located in Castro, Chiloé Island, Los Lagos Region.

 

This milestone underscores its commitment to sustainability and responsible practices in aquaculture feed production.

 

The ASC Feed certification evaluates several critical indicators, including greenhouse gas emissions management, energy efficiency, renewable energy use, waste management, water conservation, and the protection of human and labour rights. It also requires responsible sourcing practices, ensuring supply chains are free from deforestation and land conversion while promoting sustainable marine resource management.

 

"ASC Feed is not just about the feed producer; it requires a holistic commitment that extends to raw material suppliers, ensuring they source responsibly and do not contribute to deforestation or depletion of marine resources," said Jorge Ríos, country manager for Chile and chair of the Global Aquaculture Team at Control Union, the certifying body.

 

Francisco Valdés, Vitapro Chile's business manager, highlighted the significance of this achievement. "This reinforces our commitment to leading practices that protect the environment and promote the well-being of communities and natural resources. ASC Feed certification is not just a milestone for us but a testament to our long-term dedication to sustainability," he said.

 

Ramiro Larios, country manager of Vitapro Chile, noted the certification's importance to the salmon industry, particularly in meeting the high-quality and sustainability standards of export markets. "This accomplishment not only strengthens our value proposition but also enables us to support our clients in their sustainability journey," he added.

 

Looking to the future, Larios outlined plans for pursuing additional certifications that add value to the business and its clients. He also emphasised expanding the network of suppliers that meet high standards for sustainable sourcing.

 

According to José Luis Trejos, head of the Management and Quality Systems Department at Vitapro Chile, the ASC Feed certification reflects years of effort to enhance sustainable sourcing practices. "We have conducted thorough risk analyses and detailed evaluations of our suppliers from legal, social, and environmental perspectives, ensuring compliance with the stringent requirements of the standard," he explained.

 

The certification is valid for three years and requires annual audits. It adds to Salmofood's portfolio of recognitions, which includes GLOBAL G.A.P., Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), RTRS Chain of Custody, and Huella Chile, among others.

 

With this achievement, Salmofood's feed mill joins a group of 12 other feed mills that have also earned ASC Feed certification.

 

-      AquaFeed