UK's Co-op has pledged to ensure that all standard own-brand fresh and frozen farmed seafood will be Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certified by 2027 as it reinforces its dedication to responsible sourcing.

This move emphasises the retailer's focus on transparency, traceability, and responsible practices within its seafood supply chain.

The ASC certification, a globally recognised standard for responsible aquaculture, ensures that farmed seafood production protects fish welfare, preserves ecosystems, and respects the livelihoods of local communities.

Co-op's own-brand fresh seabass is the first product in its range to feature the ASC logo and is available nationwide.

Over the next 15 months, the remaining 18 products in the standard farmed seafood range, including items like smoked salmon and whole prawns, will also transition to ASC certification, the retailer noted.

This initiative is part of a larger Co-op strategy to improve sustainability and accountability in its seafood sourcing.

It also builds upon existing partnerships with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) for wild-caught seafood and RSPCA Assured for its premium Scottish salmon, highlighting Co-op's leadership in ethical food standards.

Sam Darley, fisheries and agriculture compliance manager at Co-op, said, "Offering high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood is central to our role as a sustainable retailer.

"Moving 100% of our farmed fish to ASC certification by 2027 reinforces the rigorous standards we've upheld since 2008 -- ensuring that every product on our shelves comes from farms and fisheries managed with care for the marine environment."

Lief Hendrikz, market development manager for UK & Ireland at the Aquaculture Stewardship Council, added, "We congratulate Co-op on this ambitious commitment. Retailers like Co-op play a vital role in helping consumers make responsible choices and in driving meaningful progress across the aquaculture industry.

"Their move to 100% ASC-certified farmed seafood is a major step forward in making sustainable options more accessible to UK shoppers."

Co-op Targets 100% ASC Certified Own-Brand Farmed Seafood By 2027 | ESM Magazine