© Atlantic Sapphire
Atlantic Sapphire, one of the world’s largest Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) salmon producers, is now setting a new benchmark for land-based seafood farming in North America.
ASC recently introduced a specialised RAS module to address the environmental challenges of land-based systems. This module includes strict criteria on water usage, waste management, energy consumption, and emissions. To achieve certification, Atlantic Sapphire had to meet these new standards in addition to ASC’s existing Salmon Standard, including conducting a biodiversity impact assessment.
Operating from its cutting-edge facility in Homestead, Florida, Atlantic Sapphire raises salmon in a controlled environment free from common ocean-farming risks such as parasites, disease transmission, and escapes. This land-based approach eliminates the need for antibiotics and pesticides while ensuring a clean water source free of microplastics and mercury.
"By achieving ASC certification, we strengthen our belief that innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices can play a critical role in safeguarding the environment while supporting the growing global population. We’re excited to work together to promote the future of fish farming as one of the world’s most sophisticated, efficient and responsible RAS salmon producers," said Pedro Courard, CEO at Atlantic Sapphire, in a press release.
Currently producing 70 million salmon meals annually, Atlantic Sapphire plans to scale production 22-fold, reducing the U.S.’s reliance on imported seafood. By farming salmon domestically, the company cuts out emissions from airfreight while supplying ultra-fresh, ASC-certified fish to retailers, distributors, and chefs across North America.
