Our Commitment to the Environment

At European Fishmeal and Fish Oil Producers (EFFOP) we are dedicated to promoting sustainability within the European fish processing industry. We play a vital role in supporting fisheries, aquaculture, and agriculture by ensuring the production of fishmeal and fish oil is conducted responsibly and sustainably.

Commitment to Sustainable and Responsible Practices

EFFOP members are devoted to producing fishmeal and fish oil with a low carbon footprint. Our raw materials are sustainably sourced from forage fish and by-products from the fish processing industry. These sources include small, oily, short-lived species such as blue whiting, capelin, sand eel, Norway pout, and sprat, along with trimmings from fish processing.

Rigorous Regulation and Certification

All fish stocks utilized by our members are governed by strict catch limitations set by governmental regulations and based on biological advice. EFFOP firmly supports the adherence to non-political and scientific advice provided by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). The Total Allowable Catches (TACs) ensure the sustainable exploitation of natural resources. Our dedication to responsible sourcing is reinforced through third-party certifications, such as MarinTrust, the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), and FAO Code of Conduct.

The European fishmeal and fish oil industry adheres to high standards of quality control, ensuring raw materials are responsible sourced and products are traceable. This rigorous approach helps maintain quality and safety standards throughout the distribution chain while minimizing the environmental impact.

Focus on Recycling and Resource Optimization

A significant portion of our raw materials, approximately 40%, comes from recycled trimmings generated during the processing of fish intended for human consumption. Up to 60% of a fresh fish can be discarded as waste during filleting, even though these by-products contain valuable proteins and oils. By incorporating these by-products into our production, we maximize the use of natural resources and support the production of healthy aquaculture products. This is essential to the global blue value chain, connecting fisheries and the use of side-streams to aquaculture and the consumption of healthy blue proteins.

Sustainable Marine Ingredients for Low Carbon Feed and Food Production

The production of fishmeal and fish oil by EFFOP members is characterized by its low carbon footprint, making it a sustainable choice for both aquaculture and agriculture industries. Compared to plant-based alternatives like soy and rapeseed, marine ingredients used in aquaculture feed have a significantly lower CO2 footprint. This aligns with recommendations from the FAO for expanding aquaculture as a sustainable food production method. By responsibly sourcing raw materials and implementing efficient production practices, EFFOP contributes to reducing environmental impact while supporting the nutritional needs of global food systems.

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals

Our dedication to sustainability aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our practices support several key goals, including zero hunger (SDG 2), responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), life below water (SDG 14), and climate action (SDG 13). By implementing strict catch limitations, promoting third-party certifications, and maximizing the use of by-products, we contribute to the sustainable management of marine resources, reduce waste, and minimize our carbon footprint. Our efforts not only ensure the long-term viability of the fishing industry but also play a crucial role in fostering a healthier planet for future generations. Through sustainable fishmeal and fish oil production, we help support global food security and nutrition, contributing to the availability of healthy and nutritious food.

For more information about our sustainable practices and initiatives, please explore our website or contact us directly.