The Significance of ASC and MSC Chain of Custody Certification in the Seafood Industry

In today's global environment, the demand for sustainable and traceable seafood is on the rise. For companies in the seafood industry, achieving Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)/Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Chain of Custody (CoC) certification isn't just a choice; it's a strategic imperative to ensure the traceability of their MSC/ASC certified seafood products.

Before a seafood product can proudly carry the MSC or ASC eco-label, the producer must first secure ASC Farm or MSC Fisheries Certification. However, the journey doesn't end there. Every entity in the supply chain that takes ownership of the product and desires the MSC or ASC logo on their product must also obtain the MSC/ASC CoC Certification.

In response to the escalating concerns about labor practices, MSC Chain of Custody certificate holders involved in processing, packing, and/or manual off-loading are now required to comply with either third-party labor audits or conduct thorough self-assessments, adding an extra layer of assurance against egregious labor practices.

Moreover, recognizing the distinct production methods of farmed seafood versus wild-caught, ASC Chain of Custody certificate holders must adhere to additional requirements related to food safety and antibiotic detection.

Benefits of MSC/ASC CoC Certification:

• Assurance: Holding the MSC/ASC CoC certification means adhering to a chain of custody where all organizations meet the same rigorous requirements. This guarantees that your MSC/ASC labeled product originates from a certified responsible source. The certification not only ensures responsible sourcing but also mitigates the risks of mislabeling and species substitution issues, offering a robust assurance to consumers.
• Recognition: The MSC/ASC label serves as a powerful differentiator in the market, setting your products apart from competitors. It provides tangible evidence to customers and consumers that your operations are conducted responsibly. As awareness grows regarding responsible sourcing in the seafood industry, the MSC/ASC label becomes a symbol of reassurance. Additionally, the internationally recognized certification may open doors to new markets, grant preferred supplier status, or enable premium pricing, driven by consumer demand for responsibly sourced seafood.
• Operational Excellence: MSC/ASC CoC Certification signifies a commitment to operational excellence. Implementing the stringent requirements of the certification process ensures that your company operates with the highest standards in traceability, quality, and ethical practices. This commitment not only aligns with industry best practices but also establishes your company as a leader in responsible seafood supply chain management.

MSC/ASC Chain of Custody Certification is not merely a compliance measure; it's a strategic investment that unlocks opportunities for growth, enhances reputation, and positions your company as a responsible steward in the global seafood industry. Embrace the certification journey to not only meet market expectations but to surpass them, fostering a sustainable future for both your business and the oceans.