Veramaris Clinches Inaugural NASF Sustainability Award
Leading Algae Omega-3 Producer Recognized for Bridging the Fish Oil Supply Gap
The North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) has proudly announced that Veramaris has been awarded the prestigious NASF Sustainability Award 2026. This inaugural award recognizes outstanding leadership and innovation in sustainable seafood practices, and the announcement was made yesterday during the NASF Sustainability Summit in Bergen.
A Spotlight on Sustainability
The NASF Sustainability Award was designed to highlight organizations and initiatives that have successfully integrated sustainable practices into their core operations, thereby yielding positive environmental and social outcomes in the global seafood value chain. This award exemplifies NASF’s dedication to promoting responsible practices that ensure long-term sustainability in the sector.
Veramaris: A Game Changer in Omega-3 Supply
Among a competitive pool of seven nominees, Veramaris emerged as a leader, responsible for contributing nearly 5% to the global Omega-3 supply since its inception. A distinguished jury evaluated each nominee on their impact, innovation, scalability, and sustainability achievements.
Finalists for the Award
Earlier in the selection process, three key finalists were announced:
- The Seafood Carbon Emissions Profiling Tool (SCEPT) – A climate-focused initiative that supports carbon accounting across seafood supply chains.
- The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) – A global standard-setter for sustainable wild fisheries.
- Veramaris – A producer of microalgae-based marine Omega-3 oils, providing sustainable options for aquaculture feed.
Transformative Solutions for Sustainable Practices
After extensive deliberation, the jury selected Veramaris for its remarkable contributions to sustainable seafood practices and for demonstrating industry leadership in driving change.
Jury Insights:
The jury emphasized that while salmon is a critical source of efficient animal protein, a single species consumes up to 45% of the world’s marine Omega-3 supply, which is derived from already over-exploited fisheries. Veramaris addresses this significant challenge by producing EPA and DHA Omega-3 through large-scale fermentation of marine microalgae, effectively creating a fish-free alternative.
- Since its launch, Veramaris has augmented the global EPA and DHA supply by nearly 5%, significantly alleviating pressure on ocean resources.
- It is the first microalgae oil producer certified under the joint ASC–MSC Seaweed (Algae) Standard, ensuring adherence to rigorous sustainability norms.
The jury acknowledges Veramaris’ innovative approach as a monumental stride toward sustainable aquaculture feed production.
Honoring Veramaris
“It is with great pleasure that we present the NASF Sustainability Award 2026 to Veramaris,” stated NASF Chairman Carl-Emil Johannesen during the ceremony. “Veramaris illustrates how practical and scalable solutions can enhance the sustainability of seafood production. By offering dependable algae-based EPA and DHA as a traditional fish oil substitute, they alleviate the strain on wild fisheries while enhancing feed security in a growing global aquaculture sector. This recognition highlights the impact of focused, science-driven efforts on the seafood value chain.”
A Unique Award Design
The award’s artwork, skillfully crafted from reclaimed wood, has been created by Bergen-based artist Anette Bergo. She specializes in transforming discarded materials into compelling, sustainable art, aligning with the ethos of the NASF Sustainability Award.
Looking Ahead
The NASF Sustainability Award will continue to be a prominent element of the conference, celebrating individuals and organizations that exhibit true leadership, measurable impact, and long-term commitment to advancing responsible practices within the seafood value chain. This annual accolade aims to foster collaboration and promote continuous advancements across the seafood sector, reinforcing NASF’s commitment to making sustainability an integral aspect of contemporary corporate strategies and operations.
Image Credit: NASF
