HOOKED ON SUSTAINABLE BARRAMUNDI!

Hooked on sustainable barramundi! Oceanpick, pioneer in sustainable aquaculture in Sri Lanka, has once again demonstrated its commitment towards sustainability in the seafood industry. In April 2024, the company achieved a significant milestone by attaining Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification, the highest global standard for producing seafood. This is yet another significant achievement in its remarkable journey and is one of 5 barramundi farms worldwide to be ASC certified. It is also the only barramundi farm in the Indian subcontinent to be ASC certified. Oceanpick has consistently set new benchmarks in the seafood production landscape in Sri Lanka, and has firmly placed the country on the global aquaculture map.

Having previously achieved certifications such as Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) and Supplier Ethical Data Exchange (SMETA), Oceanpick’s latest accomplishment underscores its unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship, ethical business practices, and product quality. Oceanpick relentlessly pursue excellence in every aspect of its operations and ensures its barramundi fish products meet and exceed the expectations of consumers who prioritise sustainability, traceability, and quality.

What began as a simple dream of Irfan Thassim, Oceanpick’s passionate founder and CEO, to provide Sri Lanka with quality protein sustainably, led him to launch an aquaculture business in rural Sri Lanka. Today, Oceanpick is an established global supplier of barramundi fish.

“We are people of the ocean. Our brand, our corporate culture, our products, methods and worldview all begin with the ocean” says the founder Thassim. “Achieving ACS certification is significant for us. From the onset of our journey, the recognition we placed on the importance of adopting sustainable practices to ensure the long-term health of our oceans and the communities that depend on them is woven into the fabric of everything we do, guiding our decisions and actions at every step of the way. We understand that our success is directly linked to the health of the oceans, which is why we prioritise responsible farming practices. We strive to operate in harmony with nature which not only ensure the long-term viability of our business but also contribute to the overall health of the planet” says Thassim.

Known for its great lean white flesh and delicate flavour profiles, barramundi is a versatile fish that can be prepared in many different ways whether it is pan-seared, grilled, baked or curried. Oceanpick barramundi is farmed ethically and sustainably, without growth hormones, and has a low carbon footprint. By making barramundi more widely available, the aim to encourage more people to choose sustainable seafood. Choosing sustainable seafood is one of the most impactful actions individuals can take to support healthy oceans.

Trincomalee, on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka is the beating heart of Oceanpick. The carefully chosen location where the farm floats in the deep ocean currents and enjoys the quiet undisturbed natural environment is a clear distinction over many other regional sites. The pristine waters enable the growth of a healthy fish in its natural habitat. Idyllic Trincomalee is also a popular tourist destination, with a welcoming population and the fourth largest natural harbour in the world.

The vertically integrated company from hatchery to distribution has great plans for 2024 and beyond which includes market expansion. In anticipation of new market opportunities, Oceanpick is scaling-up its operations at the farm to meet this new demand for its products. Current markets serviced include Australia, USA, Europe in food service, wholesale and retail sectors.

Achieving ASC certification Oceanpick solidifies its position as a preferred partner for organisations that prioritises sustainability, and it serves as a powerful differentiator in the marketplace and command a premium price for its products.

With a clear vision and a dedicated team, Oceanpick is ready to seize the opportunities that lie ahead and write the next chapter in their success story.