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ASC WELCOMES THE FIRST WORLD’S FIRST PRODUCER OF ASC-CERTIFIED FARMED ATLANTIC COD
ASC welcomes the first world’s first producer of ASC-Certified farmed Atlantic cod. Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) welcomes the certification of the world’s first producer of ASC-certified farmed Atlantic cod. The certification of Norwegian producer Ode marks an important milestone for Atlantic cod farming and for the continued development of independent certification for emerging aquaculture species.
Atlantic cod was introduced into the ASC certification programme in 2025 following extensive stakeholder consultation and strong support from producers, retailers and other stakeholders. The certification of the first producer demonstrates that Atlantic cod farming can now be independently audited against ASC’s environmental and social requirements through an accredited third-party certification process.
“This is a landmark moment not only for Ode, but also for the development of Atlantic cod farming,” CEO ASC Chris Ninnes says.
“As interest in Atlantic cod farming continues to grow, independent certification provides producers, seafood businesses and consumers with greater transparency and confidence. It demonstrates that production has been independently audited against ASC’s environmental and social requirements and supports continuous improvement across the sector.”
Atlantic cod is one of the world’s most popular seafood species, while many wild cod stocks continue to face significant challenges. As aquaculture develops alongside wild fisheries, independent certification provides a consistent framework for assessing environmental and social performance and verifying compliance with ASC’s requirements.
The certification also creates new opportunities for retailers, foodservice companies and seafood buyers seeking independently certified farmed Atlantic cod. Consumers will soon be able to choose ASC-certified farmed Atlantic cod for the first time, expanding the range of seafood available with independent third-party certification.
“This achievement reflects the commitment of everyone at Ode and demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation and a commitment to continuous improvement,” says Ninnes.
“ASC looks forward to continuing to work with producers, retailers and other stakeholders as Atlantic cod farming develops and to supporting wider adoption of independent certification across the sector.”
Laetitia Rosing, Regional Manager Nordics at ASC, adds:
“Atlantic cod is one of the most important seafood species in the Nordics and a favourite on dinner tables around the world. Seeing the world’s first producer of ASC-certified farmed Atlantic cod is an exciting milestone. We look forward to consumers soon being able to choose ASC-certified farmed Atlantic cod for the first time.”
Image: Ode
