November 13, 2013 — Global seafood markets can continue to source MSC certified Alaska salmon and apply the MSC ecolabel, after a scientific, stakeholder-engaged, third-party assessment by Intertek Moody Marine (IMM) determined that 13 units of certification meet the MSC Standard as a sustainable and well-managed fishery.
The Prince William Sound unit remains in assessment pending additional data. The 13 recertified units cover all other Alaska salmon. The Alaska salmon fishery was first certified in 2000 and re-certified in 2007. This third certification was undertaken by the 400-member Purse Seine Vessel Owners Association (PSVOA) serving as the client along with a group of Alaska salmon processing companies, and it establishes a new milestone by becoming the first US fishery to receive a third certification in the MSC programme.
PSVOA opened the certificate to other companies to voluntarily join and these primary processors have signed on to be part of the client group: Copper River Seafoods, International Seafoods of Alaska, Ekuk Fisheries, 10th and M Seafoods, Silver Bay Seafoods, Hoonah Cold Storage and one anonymous company. In order for Alaska salmon to be eligible to make the MSC Claim, it must have gone through one of the members of the client group.
Speaking on behalf of PSVOA Bob Kehoe, executive director for PSVOA, said, “The MSC programme has brought sustainability to the forefront, reinforcing 50 years of responsible state management and the unique qualities of Alaska salmon. This recertification offers a valuable and independent assurance to buyers that the fishery is sustainably managed.”
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