Dispute over blue whiting could disrupt feed production

The Faroese broadcaster KVF reports that Havsbrún may have to use alternative raw materials in its feed production if the blue whiting fishery loses its sustainability certification in October.

Coastal states have failed to agree on how the blue whiting catch should be divided. As a result, the fishery could lose its certification when it expires, even though the blue whiting stock is in good condition.

Blue whiting is an important raw material in Havsbrún’s feed production. If the certification is withdrawn, the company will no longer be able to use blue whiting as a certified sustainable raw material and may have to find other solutions.

Other raw materials can be used instead, but they do not necessarily have the same properties. This could affect the quality of the feed.

Havsbrún has prepared for the possibility that the certification will lapse. The company has produced supplies in advance and has products in storage if the situation changes next month.

At the same time, European producers of fishmeal, fish oil and feed are working to establish an alternative certification. The aim is to create a system that places greater emphasis on the condition of the fish stock itself, rather than solely on whether coastal states have agreed on how the catch should be divided.