For Morecambe Bay Oysters, part of the Associated Seafoods group, the awarding of ASC accreditation is a significant event, underscoring the company’s commitment to aquaculture innovation and sustainability.
Like many other food production industries, aquaculture faces increasing challenges caused by the changing global climate, in addition to other human-caused environmental disturbances. Practices that were once customary now require frequent reassessment and adjustment. The adoption of well-established standards encourages self-regulation and improvement, ensuring businesses like Morecambe Bay Oysters remain sustainable and innovative.
In order for an operation to achieve ASC accreditation, it must be demonstrated that farming practices have no net negative impact upon the ecosystems within which they are situated. Upholding this, Associated Seafoods states that its farms do not employ the use of harmful chemicals and, since oysters feed upon naturally occurring marine plankton, no additional feed is required.
“Our ASC accreditation is a significant milestone for Morecambe Bay Oysters, and reflects our commitment to sustainable aquaculture. We hope our farming practices not only support the health of local ecosystems, but also contribute to the long-term sustainability of the industry,” said Victor West, managing director at Associated Seafoods, in a press release.
“With Morecambe Bay being an environmentally and ecologically significant location, our accreditation holds particular importance, as the area has several special designations due to its role in supporting diverse wildlife and habitats,” he concluded.
