Veramaris wins inaugural NASF Sustainability Award. The algae Omega-3 producer recognised for helping to close the fish oil supply gap.
The North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) announces that Veramaris has been named the winner of the NASF Sustainability Award 2026, the inaugural presentation of this prestigious accolade recognising exceptional leadership and innovation in seafood sustainability. The announcement was made yesterday during the NASF Sustainability Summit at NASF 2026, held in Bergen.
The NASF Sustainability Award was established to shine a spotlight on organisations and initiatives that have demonstrably embedded sustainable practices into their core operations and contributed to positive environmental and social outcomes across the global seafood value chain. The award reflects NASF’s continued commitment to driving long-term responsible practices in the sector.
Veramaris stood out among a strong field of seven nominees from across the seafood ecosystem, having added nearly 5 percent to global Omega-3 supply since its commercial launch. A distinguished jury assessed nominees based on impact, innovation, scalability, and contribution to sustainability performance.
Three finalists were shortlisted earlier in the process:
- The Seafood Carbon Emissions Profiling Tool (SCEPT) – a climate-focused initiative supporting carbon accounting across seafood supply chains
- The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) – a globally recognised standard-setter for sustainable wild fisheries
- Veramaris – producer of microalgae-based marine Omega-3 oils as sustainable alternatives for aquaculture feed
After careful deliberation, the jury selected Veramaris for its outstanding contribution to sustainable seafood practices and its demonstrated leadership in advancing industry-wide change.
Comments from the jury:
Salmon is a highly efficient animal protein and a cornerstone of healthy, low-carbon diets. Yet a single species consumes 40–45% of the world’s marine Omega-3 supply, sourced from finite pelagic fisheries, many of which are fully exploited or overfished.
- Veramaris addresses this challenge by producing EPA and DHA Omega-3 through large-scale fermentation of marine microalgae, creating a fish-free alternative. Since its commercial launch, Veramaris has added nearly 5 percent to global EPA and DHA supply, easing pressure on the oceans.
- Veramaris is the first microalgae oil producer certified under the joint ASC–MSC Seaweed (Algae) Standard, ensuring its Omega-3 for aquaculture and pet feed meets rigorous sustainability standards.
The jury recognises Veramaris’ innovation as a transformative step in sustainable aquaculture feed production.
“We are delighted to honour Veramaris with the NASF Sustainability Award 2026,” said NASF Chairman of the Board Carl-Emil Johannesen, who presented the award to the winner. “Veramaris shows how practical, scalable solutions can make seafood production more sustainable. By supplying reliable algae-based EPA and DHA as an alternative to traditional fish oil, the company reduces pressure on wild fisheries and strengthens feed security as global aquaculture continues to grow. This recognition reflects how focused, science-based work can drive real improvements across the seafood value chain.”
Award Artwork Crafted from Reclaimed Wood
The artwork representing the award is crafted by Bergen-based wood artist Anette Bergo, who transforms reclaimed and discarded wood materials that would otherwise be wasted into striking, sustainable art. Her focus on giving new life to old materials reflects the spirit of the NASF Sustainability Award.
The NASF Sustainability Award will be a key part of the conference, presented annually to individuals or entities that demonstrate genuine leadership, measurable impact, and long-term commitment to responsible seafood value‑chain development. It serves as a platform to celebrate excellence, encourage collaboration, and accelerate lasting progress throughout the seafood sector — reflecting NASF’s commitment to highlight sustainability as an integrated element of modern corporate strategy and operations.
Image: NASF