Careful management based on conservation assure abundant stocks of salmon (Photo Credit: ASMI)

Majority of Alaska Salmon Will be RFM Certified for the 2013 Season

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI) has confirmed with the majority of Alaska salmon processors that the bulk of the 2013 harvest will be certified under the United Nations FAO Based Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) program.

"We want buyers to understand that approximately 80% of the salmon harvest will be available under the RFM certification program," states Michael Cerne, Executive Director for ASMI. A limited supply of MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) certified Alaska salmon may become available pending the completion of the MSC assessment process estimated to be finished in July.

The independent, third-party certification of the management of the major Alaska commercial fisheries is directly based on the respected United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries

"Alaska's dedication to sustainability predates any eco-label - in fact, Alaska is the only State in the U.S. to have it written into its Constitution. However, we understand the need in some markets for independent verification, which is why we chose to participate in the RFM Certification program. We are pleased that the list of Alaska companies with RFM Chain of Custody continues to grow," states ASMI Board Chairman Joe Bundrant (Executive Vice President Trident Seafoods).

Every aspect of Alaska’s fisheries has been strictly regulated, closely monitored and rigidly enforced for nearly five decades

Both the Governor of Alaska and the United Fisherman of Alaska, a broad trade organization made up of 37 fishing associations, strongly support the RFM model.

"Offering a credible choice in seafood certification is necessary. For this reason, we are providing, along with Iceland and others, this FAO-Based alternative certification program. Across the globe, we ask you to accept RFM Certification as a socially responsible and firmly grounded business practice" states Governor Sean Parnell.

The superior flavor and texture of Alaska Seafood is prized around the world

Earlier this year, the United Fishermen of Alaska issued a resolution supporting "the RFM certification as an objective, internationally recognized ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Standard that is in the best interests of Alaska and its fisheries."

ASMI encourages buyers and members of the press to schedule an appointment during the European Seafood Exposition (ESE) or to come by the ASMI booth (Hall 6, Booth 1127) if they have any questions about the salmon supply situation, RFM Certification or about Alaska's long-standing commitment to marine conservation.

Randy Rice, Technical Program Director for ASMI will be available to provide detailed information on RFM Certification specific to your needs. Additionally, Denby Lloyd, former Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game will be on hand if you want to know more about Alaska's long heritage of responsible management.

All Alaska seafood is wild and sustainable, and it is managed for protection against overfishing, habitat damage, and pollution

About ASMI

The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute is a marketing organization with the mission of increasing the economic value of the Alaska seafood resource.

ASMI is a public-private partnership between the State of Alaska and the Alaska seafood industry established to foster economic development of a renewable natural resource.

ASMI is playing a key role in the repositioning of Alaska’s seafood industry as a competitive market-driven food production industry. Its work to boost the value of Alaska’s seafood product portfolio is accomplished through partnerships with retail grocers, foodservice distributors, restaurant chains, foodservice operators, universities, culinary schools, and the media.

It conducts consumer campaigns, public relations and advertising activities, and aligns with industry efforts for maximum effectiveness. ASMI also functions as a brand manager of the Alaska Seafood family of brands.

Source: ASMI

Margaret E.L. Stacey
Editor Companies and Products
[email protected]
www.seafood.media

Address:	311 N. Franklin Street., Suite 200
City:	Juneau
State/ZIP:	Alaska (AK 99801)
Country:	United States
Phone:	+1 907 465 5560
Fax:	+1 907 465 5572
E-Mail:	[email protected]
Skype:	https://www.instagram.com/alaskaseafood/
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