After an extensive auditing process, Omega Protein has achieved recertification by Friend of the Sea for sustainable fish meal and fish oil derived from Gulf menhaden caught in the Gulf of Mexico (FAO area 31).
Omega Protein already holds the certification for sustainable Atlantic menhaden.
The company – one of the world’s largest producers of omega-3 fish oil – has successfully demonstrated that it meets Friend of the Sea’s rigorous criteria for sustainable purse seiners, which includes selective fishing methods and sources from non-overexploited stocks. The discard rate is zero, and by-catch is minimal, thanks to a system aboard its vessels that allows larger, non-targeted fish to easily escape during the loading phase.
A full traceability system is in place throughout the company owned supply chain, from fishery to production facility and finished product manufacturing. This guarantees that no mixing between approved and non-approved sources occurs.
“Sustainability is a core value at Omega Protein and this practice has allowed us to prosper for over a century. We are pleased that both of our Gulf and Atlantic menhaden fisheries have been recognized as sustainable by Friend of the Sea,” states Bret Scholtes, President and CEO of Omega Protein. “Friend of the Sea’s certification further emphasizes Omega Protein’s marine conservation and environmental protection efforts.”
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About Omega Protein
Omega Protein Corporation (NYSE:OME) is a century old nutritional company that develops, produces and delivers healthy products throughout the world to improve the nutritional integrity of functional foods, dietary supplements and animal feeds. Omega Protein’s mission is to help people lead healthier lives with better nutrition through sustainably sourced ingredients such as highly-refined omega-3 rich fish oil, specialty proteins and nutraceuticals. www.omegaprotein.com
About Friend of the Sea
Friend of the Sea is an international certification program for products from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Over 400 companies in more than 50 countries have relied on Friend of the Sea to assess the sustainability of their seafood origins. Audits, based on best and most updated available scientific data, are run by accredited independent certification bodies. www.friendofthesea.org
