Bergen, Norway – Veramaris, a leading producer of microalgae-based omega-3 oils, has been awarded the inaugural North Atlantic Seafood Forum (NASF) Sustainability Award. The recognition, announced during the NASF Sustainability Summit in Bergen on March 4, 2026, highlights the company’s innovative approach to sustainable aquaculture feed production and its commitment to reducing reliance on wild-caught fish for essential omega-3 fatty acids.
The NASF Sustainability Award was established to recognize organizations demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation in promoting sustainable practices throughout the global seafood value chain. Veramaris emerged as the winner from a competitive field of nominees, including the Seafood Carbon Emissions Profiling Tool (SCEPT) and the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), demonstrating the growing importance of alternative feed sources in responsible aquaculture.
Veramaris: A New Standard in Omega-3 Production
Veramaris distinguishes itself as the first microalgae oil producer to achieve certification under the joint ASC-MSC Seaweed (Algae) Standard. This certification ensures that its omega-3 oils, used in both aquaculture and pet food, meet rigorous sustainability criteria. The company’s technology offers a promising solution to the challenges facing traditional omega-3 sources, such as overfishing and environmental concerns, as detailed in a recent review of algal oils as a sustainable alternative published in ScienceDirect.
Omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, are crucial for human health, contributing to cardiovascular health, neurocognitive function, and immune modulation. Traditionally sourced from fish like salmon and mackerel, the increasing demand for these essential nutrients has put pressure on wild fish populations. Microalgae, as primary producers of EPA and DHA in aquatic ecosystems, offer a sustainable and efficient alternative, according to research published in PubMed.
Industry Recognition and Future Implications
The jury for the NASF Sustainability Award specifically praised Veramaris’ innovation as a “transformative step” in sustainable aquaculture feed production. They noted that salmon, a key source of omega-3s, is a highly efficient animal protein and a cornerstone of healthy, low-carbon diets. The award underscores the growing recognition within the seafood industry of the need for innovative and sustainable feed solutions.
MiAlgae, another company focused on microalgae and omega-3s, highlighted the importance of the NASF conference, with their Commercial Director, Christopher Haacke, presenting on the topic of “Microalgae and Omega 3s in Aquaculture: From Promise to Practice.” As noted on LinkedIn, the presentation explored the transition of microalgae from a promising concept to a proven impact in aquaculture.
Beyond omega-3 production, microalgae also offer potential as sources of protein and other bioactive compounds, including carotenoids and phycocyanin, further enhancing their value as a sustainable resource. As outlined in a Springer publication, microalgae can help meet the increasing global demand for these nutrients while minimizing environmental impact.
The NASF award to Veramaris signals a broader shift within the aquaculture industry towards more sustainable and innovative feed solutions. Further research and development will be crucial to optimize microalgae cultivation and extraction processes, ensuring scalability and cost-effectiveness. The continued exploration of microalgae’s potential will likely play a significant role in securing a sustainable future for seafood production and human health.
The industry will be watching closely as Veramaris continues to scale its production and refine its technology. The success of this approach could pave the way for wider adoption of microalgae-based feed ingredients, reducing the environmental footprint of aquaculture and ensuring a reliable supply of essential omega-3 fatty acids for generations to come.
What are your thoughts on the role of microalgae in sustainable aquaculture? Share your comments below.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
