ASC Certified
Issuing Organization:
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)
Label purpose:
The ASC Certified label is aimed at recognizing and promoting responsibly farmed seafood. It certifies aquaculture operations that minimize their environmental impact, use resources in a responsible manner, and operate under socially responsible practices. The goal is to provide consumers with a trustworthy assurance that the seafood they purchase is sustainably sourced, supporting the health of the world's oceans and the well-being of local communities.
Certification Criteria:
ASC certification requires aquaculture operations to meet rigorous environmental and social standards. These criteria cover a wide range of issues, including preservation of the natural environment and biodiversity, responsible use of water and feed, animal health and welfare, fair treatment and safety of employees, and positive impacts on local communities.
Geographical Coverage:
ASC certification requires aquaculture operations to meet rigorous environmental and social standards. These criteria cover a wide range of issues, including preservation of the natural environment and biodiversity, responsible use of water and feed, animal health and welfare, fair treatment and safety of employees, and positive impacts on local communities.
Target Industries/Segments:
The certification targets the aquaculture industry, covering a variety of farmed seafood products such as fish (e.g., salmon, tilapia, trout), shellfish (e.g., mussels, clams), and crustaceans (e.g., shrimp).
Certification Process:
To achieve ASC certification, farms must undergo a third-party audit conducted by an independent, accredited certifier. The audit process assesses the farm's compliance with the specific ASC standard applicable to the species being farmed. Farms must demonstrate they meet all the required criteria through documentation, on-site inspections, and stakeholder consultations.
Certificate Validity:
ASC certification is valid for five years, with annual surveillance audits required to ensure ongoing compliance with the standards. Full reassessment is necessary at the end of the certification period for renewal.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
For consumers, the ASC label guarantees that the seafood they are buying is sourced from farms that prioritize environmental sustainability and social responsibility. For producers, ASC certification can improve market access, enhance brand reputation, and demonstrate commitment to best practices in aquaculture.
Sustainability Impact:
ASC Certified farms contribute to the sustainable development of aquaculture by implementing practices that reduce environmental impact, improve efficiency and resource use, promote animal health and welfare, and positively affect local communities. This approach supports the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and promotes the long-term viability of the seafood industry.
EN 
SL 
DE 
IT