Gilthead bream

Sparus auratus

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What to check for

Location

All areas

Production method

Open net pen, marine

Certification

Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)

Rating summary

ASC farmed sea bream is well managed and management is thought to be fully effective. The standard mitigates many areas of environmental concern in open net pen aquaculture, including discharge of effluents, use of chemicals, escapes, disease and parasite interactions. Criteria on responsible feed sourcing requires it to be traceable, however, sourcing of marine ingredients is not verified via audit and ASC certified bream can use a high quantity of wild caught fish in their diet. Criteria on animal welfare is also lacking, with no requirements for humane slaughter.This rating is based on full compliance with certification requirements. Commercial buyers should therefore ensure that full compliance has been achieved in order for this rating to be applicable.Rating last updated: November 2022

Technical consultation summary

ASC farmed sea bream is well managed and management is thought to be fully effective. The standard mitigates many areas of environmental concern in open net pen aquaculture, including discharge of effluents, use of chemicals, escapes, disease and parasite interactions. Criteria on responsible feed sourcing requires it to be traceable, however, sourcing of marine ingredients is not verified via audit and ASC certified bream can use a high quantity of wild caught fish in their diet. Criteria on animal welfare is also lacking, with no requirements for humane slaughter.

References

Sustainable swaps

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Gilthead bream
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