Salmofood achieves ASC Feed Certification, strengthens commitment to sustainable aquaculture

CHILE – Salmofood, a Vitapro brand, has reached a significant milestone in its sustainability journey by securing the ASC Feed certification for its production facility in Castro, Chiloé Island, Los Lagos Region. 

This certification underscores the company’s dedication to responsible aquaculture practices and positions it as a leader in the salmon feed industry.

The ASC Feed certification evaluates critical sustainability indicators, including greenhouse gas emissions management, energy efficiency, renewable energy use, waste management, and water conservation. 

It also focuses on protecting human and labour rights and mandates responsible sourcing practices that ensure supply chains are free from deforestation and land conversion, as well as the sustainable management of marine resources.

Jorge Ríos, country manager for Chile and chair of the Global Aquaculture Team at Control Union, the certifying body, highlighted the certification’s holistic nature. 

“ASC Feed is not just about the feed producer; it requires a commitment that extends to raw material suppliers, ensuring they source responsibly and do not contribute to deforestation or depletion of marine resources,” he explained.

Francisco Valdés, Vitapro Chile’s business manager, emphasised that the ASC Feed certification is a testament to the company’s long-term sustainability commitment. 

“This achievement reinforces our commitment to leading practices that protect the environment and promote the well-being of communities and natural resources,” he said.

Ramiro Larios, country manager of Vitapro Chile, noted the certification’s positive impact on the salmon industry, particularly in markets that demand high standards for sustainability. 

“This accomplishment strengthens our value proposition and enables us to support our clients in their sustainability journey,” he added.

Salmofood’s efforts to enhance its sustainability credentials are far from over. Larios outlined the company’s plans to pursue additional certifications that would further enhance value for both the business and its clients. 

This includes expanding its network of suppliers that meet the high standards required for sustainable sourcing, ensuring a reliable and eco-friendly supply chain for the future.

José Luis Trejos, head of the Management and Quality Systems Department at Vitapro Chile, explained that the ASC Feed certification reflects years of effort to strengthen 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 said.

The ASC Feed certification, valid for three years with annual audits, adds to Salmofood’s already impressive portfolio of sustainability certifications, including GLOBAL G.A.P., Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), RTRS Chain of Custody (Round Table on Responsible Soy), and Huella Chile. 

The facility now joins a growing list of 12 feed mills globally, including industry giants like Biomar, Skretting, and Vimifos, that have earned the ASC Feed certification.

With the rapid growth of the aquaculture industry, concerns about environmental damage, water pollution, and poor working conditions have intensified. 

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), an impact-driven NGO launched in 2010, has been working tirelessly to ensure that seafood farming is conducted responsibly with care for both people and the planet. 

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