Alltech Leads the Way in Sustainable Aquaculture with ASC Feed Certification

Two ASC Feed Certification ‘firsts’ for Alltech in key European locations. In a significant achievement for sustainability in aquaculture, Alltech Coppens in Nettetal, Germany, and Alltech Fennoaqua in Raisio, Finland, have become the first feed mills in their respective countries to receive certification under the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Feed Standard. This dual milestone represents a pivotal advancement toward enhanced transparency and sustainability within the European aquaculture sector.

Acknowledging Commitment to Sustainability

“Congratulations to both Alltech Coppens and Alltech Fennoaqua for achieving ASC Feed Certification,” said Aisla Jones, feed engagement and U.K. markets manager at ASC. “This demonstrates a commitment to transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement. By embedding responsibility at the very start of the aquaculture supply chain, they are helping drive the change our industry needs.”

Setting Global Standards in Feed Production

The ASC Feed Standard is groundbreaking as it establishes binding global requirements for all feed ingredients, encompassing everything from fishmeal and fish oil to plant-based ingredients like soy, palm oil, and wheat. Companies seeking certification must prove that their ingredients are sourced from responsibly managed fisheries or sustainable agricultural practices.

Rigorous Certification Process

Both mills provided extensive evidence throughout the certification process. This included documentation of raw materials and suppliers, verification of fair working conditions, and the implementation of measures aimed at reducing energy use, emissions, water consumption, and waste.

“This is an important next step on our sustainability journey,” stated Ronald Faber, CEO of Alltech Coppens and global aqua lead at Alltech. “ASC is one of the world’s most recognized certifications, and we are very proud to have achieved it. The preparation required time, perseverance, and strong teamwork. The process was intense but has helped us make our operations more transparent and sustainable—benefits that extend beyond just certification.”

Linking Certifications to Global Market Demand

The ASC Feed Standard is intrinsically connected to the ASC Farm Standard. While the Farm Standard regulates conditions on aquaculture farms, the Feed Standard is focused on ensuring that feed production is sustainable and responsible throughout the entire supply chain. Starting October 31, 2025, ASC-certified farms will be required to utilize feed from ASC-certified mills.

Future Outlook and Commitment to Sustainability

“There is an increasing demand in the global fish market for products whose sustainable and responsible production can be validated through standardized certifications like ASC,” said Susanna Airaksinen, development manager of Alltech Fennoaqua. “Thanks to the certification process, we will continue supplying feed to all ASC-certified farms even as new, stricter requirements come into effect later in October.”

With the certification of both its German and Finnish feed mills, Alltech is solidifying its dedication to promoting sustainable aquaculture practices across Europe.

Image: Alltech Fennoaqua in Raisio, Finland achieved certification under the ASC Feed Standard. Credit: ASC