Fish Farmer Magazine September 2020

Fish F armer SEPTEMBER 2020

A PASSION FOR SALMON SSPO Chair Atholl Duncan

EASTERN PROMISE

Vince McDonagh

THE OMEGA FACTOR THE THREE HORSEMEN Nick Joy

Brexit deja vu

Sandy Neil

PRESENT AND FUTURE SEAFOOD Nicki Holmyard

Hamish Macdonell

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14/09/2020 14:49:51

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Welcome

Editor’s Welcome

‘C

ovid has exposed a lot’. That was the stand-out quote that I took from my interview this month with the Chair of the SSPO, Atholl Duncan. A lot of prac�ces within the industry that could certainly be improved but were maybe ‘below the radar’ pre-covid were all laid bare in the cold light of day during the weekly briefings that took place between the leaders of the industry during the early part of the pandemic. It was clear that there will be no going back to ‘normal’ at the end of the crisis and that the industry that will emerge will be be�er than the one that went into it. I hope you find the overall piece to be an interes�ng read this month.

Elsewhere, Vince McDonagh takes a look at Far East markets and the poten�al for growth there, while Mar�n Jaffa destroys a few ‘myths’ in the farmed versus wild salmon arguments. Hamish Macdonell explores various Brexit scenarios, but before you go and What’s happening in aq hide behind the sofa you will also want to read Nicki Holmyard’s piece on present and in the UK and around th future seafood.

What’s happening in aquacu Sandy Neil as always keeps us up to date with everything that’s happening around the in the UK and around the w pandemic, and this month our addi�onal see boats and harves�ng covered, as JENNY HJUL JENNYfeatures HJUL –– EDITOR EDITOR well as cages, nets and moorings.

JENNY EDITOR JENNY HJUL HJUL EDITOR almost everywhere, what happens over With infec�on rates star�ng to creep up ––again Steve Bracken SSC’s record results Stewart Graham The final sessions the next few months is probably anyone’s guess, but whatever it is you can be sure that Fish Farmer Magazine will be there to cover it.

Steve Bracken SSC’s record results Stewart Graham The final sessions salmon farming sector in Scotland, when it was to See you in October! he focus this month istopictures on Europe, the internati T HE is coincidence that andwhere videos of unhealthy Sno Fish Farmer went press, there was sti lltold no offi cialonal be thewere subject ofScotti a be parliamentary inquiry, embraced the industry willsent soon gathering the (European salmon to news outletsfor just asjoint the Scotti sh news from the shScotland, parliamentary inquiry into salmon farming sector in when itEAS was tosalmon he focus this month istopictures on Europe, the internati T HE is coincidence that andwhere videos of unhealthy Sno Fish Farmer went press, there was sti lltold no offi cialonal opportunity this would provide to explain how it operated.

Take care, Aquaculture and WAS Aquaculture Society) parliament went back to work at (World the start of month.

These farming, conducted earlier this year by thethis Rural Economy be the subject of aSociety) parliamentary inquiry, embraced industry willsent soon be gathering the EASinto (European salmon were to news outletsfor just asjoint the Scotti shthe news from the Scotti sh parliamentary inquiry salmon Current trends In good Julie Hesketh-Laird The had nothing to hide and, if given fair hearing, Meet thehealth new chief exe Dave Edler conference, to be staged over five days in theait southern images had this litt le to doprovide with theto current state of Scotland’s ficould sh and industry Connecti vity (REC) committ ee.

MSPs have now heldFrench five opportunity would explain how operated.

Aquaculture Society) and WAS Aquaculture Society) parliament back to work at (World the start of month.

These farming, went conducted earlier this year by thethis Rural Economy address much of the criti cism levelled against it. city of Montpellier.

As well as highlighti ng the latest technological farms where sea lice levels are in decline and, in fact, at a fi vemeeti ngs, in private, to consider their report and we must be Current trends In good Julie Hesketh-Laird The had to hide and, if given fair hearing, Meet thehealth new chief executiv conference, to benothing staged over days in theaof southern images had litt le to do with thefive current state Scotland’s ficould sh and industry Connecti vity (REC) committ ee.

MSPs have now heldFrench five Fish Farmer supported this but at times salmon advances in our fast moving sector, Aqua 2018felt willthat alsohas feature year low (htt p://scotti shsalmon.co.uk/monthly-sea-lice-reports). pati ent.

However, waiti ng forview, their recommendati ons been address much of the criti cism levelled against it. city ofngs, As well asare highlighti ng the latest technological farms -Montpellier. where sea lice in decline and, inwe fact, at abe fivemeeti in private, tolevels consider their report and must farmers were being drowned out bywhich theREC noisier elements offarming the sessions on emerging markets and look atinvolves the role ofthe fishusual This latest propaganda campaign, all made harder by leaks from within to anti -salmon Fish Farmer supported this atthe times salmon advances in our fast moving sector, Aqua 2018felt willthat alsohas feature year low (htt p://scotti shsalmon.co.uk/monthly-sea-lice-reports). pati ent.

However, waiti ng forview, theirbut recommendati ons been angling lobby, which had called foras the investi gatiRural on.

But asngs the farming in alleviati ng poverty.

Increasingly, industry meeti anti -aquaculture suspects, came Holyrood’s Economy acti vists.

The latest of these (see our news story on page 4) farmers were being drowned out bywhich theREC noisier elements offarming the sessions onpropaganda emerging markets and look atinvolves the role fishusual This campaign, allofthe madelatest harder by leaks from within the to anti -salmon sessions progressed, and eventually farmers’ voices were heard, are broadening their scope, tackling subjects such asthat thethe social and Connecti vity committ ee returned the summer recess we to makes grim reading for the industry asfrom itgati suggests committ ee angling lobby, which had called for the investi on.

But as farming inThe alleviati ngof poverty.

Increasingly, industry ngs anti -aquaculture suspects, came as Holyrood’s Rural Economy activists. latest these (see our news story onmeeti page 4) became more opti misti c.

We now believe that MSPs, perhaps with acceptability of aquaculture and the contributi on it makes to global consider its draft report into the future of salmon farming. members have been willing to listen to those campaigning to sessions progressed, and eventually farmers’ voices were heard, are broadening their scope, tackling subjects such asthat the committ social and Connecti vity committ ee returned the summer recess we to makes grim reading for the industry asfrom it suggests ee Serving Worldwide Aquaculture Since 1977 food security and saving the planet, aindustry move that is toanti welcomed. the excepti on ofvaluable one or two Greens cahoots with -farming Those who want toWe shut down thein asbe shut down this sector, rather than to those who operate became more misti c. now believe that MSPs, perhaps with acceptability ofopti aquaculture and the contributi on ithave, makes toexpected, global consider its draft report into the future of salmon farming. members have been willing to listen to those campaigning to Also investi gati ngacti initi aties, veswhich inregard thenow developing world, Harrison campaigners, will, on balance, the industry in a Dr favourable stepped their viti involve the within it.up food security and saving the planet, aindustry move that is tobreaching welcomed. the excepti on ofvaluable one or two Greens cahoots with anti -farming Those who want to shut down thein asbe expected, shut down this sector, rather thanthe tohave, those who operate Meet the team Charo Karisa of WorldFish writes about farming potenti al inthe Fish Farmer: Volume 43 Number 09 light.

They will hopefully see that farmers take their environmental biosecure environments of farm sitesindustry to snatch photographs in Of course, such stories may be inaccurate and, in any case, Also investi gati ng initi ati ves in the developing world, Dr Harrison campaigners, will, on balance, regard the in a favourable stepped acti vitiish es,and which nowculti involve breaching the within it.up their Editorial Advisory Board: Nigeria, both in catf ti lapia vati on. responsibiliti es seriously and that businesses will only ever invest the hope of fi nding incriminati ng evidence against farmers.

Onein committ ee’s fi ndings are not binding.

Scotland’s fi sh farmers Contact us Charo Karisa of WorldFish writes about the farming potenti al in light.

They will hopefully see that farmers take their environmental biosecure environments of farm sites tosomething snatch ingame Of course, such stories may be inaccurate and,photographs inofany case,ngthe Steve Bracken, Hervé Migaud, Jim Treasurer, In Scotland, the summer has been aofwaiti What’s in a name?

Dr Nick Lake Phil Thomas growth that isfibeen sustainable.

Tel: +44(0) 131 551 1000 campaigner lmed himself searching, unsuccessfully, for minister, dead have always fortunate to have the support their Nigeria, both catf ish and tilapia culti vati on. responsibiliti seriously and that businesses will only ever invest in the hope of fies nding incriminati ng evidence against farmers.

One committ ee’s fiin ndings are not binding.

Scotland’s fi sh farmers Chris Mitchell, Jason Cleaversmith while the parliament is in recess and the members of Holyrood’s Fax: +44(0) 131 551especially 7901 If the committ ee members, those who have yet to of Phil fi sh at a Marine Harvest site.

Another said he saw ‘hundreds’ Fergus Ewing, to grow sustainably.

In Scotland, the summer has been something of a waiti ng game What’s in a name?

Dr Nick Lake Thomas growth that isfibeen sustainable. campaigner lmed himself searching, unsuccessfully, forto dead haveRural always fortunate toshfarmermagazine.com have the support of their minister, and Hamish Macdonell Economy and Connecti vity committ ee conti nue weigh up Email: visit aparliament farm, like tothe learn more about theagainst of infested salmon in awould pen, but we only have his word that But itsalmon should not go unchallenged that some MSPs onsubject the REC while the isdedler@fi in recess and members of Holyrood’s If the committ ee members, especially those who have yet to fi sh at a Marine Harvest site.

Another said he saw ‘hundreds’ of Fergus Ewing, to grow sustainably. the evidence in their inquiry into salmon farming.

We don’t expect Interim Editor: Dave Edler their we have plenty of good stories in our May Even Rural and Connecti vity committ ee conti nue weigh up Head Offi ce: Special Publica� ons, Fe� esto Park, of theinquiry, professional vets and biologists who manage theissue. welfare of committ ee, with their own against the growth of visit a Economy farm, like toagendas learn more about the ofthetime infested salmon in go awould but we only have his word against that Buttheir itsalmon should not unchallenged that some MSPs onsubject the REC report unti l pen, the autumn but hope the MSPs are using the Designer: Andrew the Balahura bett er, they could head to the Highlands later this month, where 496 Ferry Road, Edinburgh, EH5 2DL Wefor evidence in their inquiry into salmon farming. don’t expect these farms on a daily basis. industry, are in breach of Code of Conduct MSPs. As they their wefully have plenty of good stories in ourgrowth May toinquiry, become acquainted with the facts about fithe shissue. farming. of the professional vets andagendas biologists who manage welfare of committ ee, with their own against the of theEven Commercial Manager: Montpellier report Dr Marti n Jaff a Doug McLeod meet the aquaculture industry en masse at Scotland’s theirthey report unti l the autumn but hope the MSPs areas using theittiis, meit Ifthey the is proud of its high standards, itsalmon says are inwill aindustry positi on to inflthe uence the future course of farming, bett er, could head to Highlands later this month, where This month also sees reti rement of Marine Harvest’s longest these farms on a daily basis. industry, are in breach of the Code of Conduct for MSPs. As they Subscriptions Janice Johnston to become fully acquainted with the facts about fi sh farming. biggest fi sh farming show. must mount aaquaculture much more robustWe defence oftrouble itself, through its and of businesses vital toBracken.

Scotland’s economy, we have a right Montpellier report Dr Marti n Jaff a Doug McLeod they will meet the industry en masse Scotland’s serving employee, Steve had no Subscrip� ons Fish Farmer If the isto proud ofreti itsAddress: high standards, as itsalmon says itcollecti is, it ng are in aindustry positi on inflthe uence the future course ofat farming, jjohnston@fishfarmermagazine.com This month also sees rement of Marine Harvest’s longest will certainly be at Aquaculture UK inindustry, Aviemore and look representati ve body, the SSPO, than it has done to date.

The toWe know who they are, and we hope the through its warm tributes from his friends and colleagues to mark the biggest fi sh farming show.

Magazine Subscrip� ons,economy, Warners Group must a much more robustWe defence itself, through its and ofmount businesses vital toBracken.

Scotland’s we have a right Publisher: Alisterserving Benne� employee, Steve had noof trouble collecti ng forward toand, seeing many of you there too. campaigners, we now see, willrest stop nothing, representati ves, will pressure the parliament toand investi gate before milestone along with of the industry, thefarmers team will certainly be at Aquaculture UK inat Aviemore and look Publica� ons plc, The Mal� ngs, West representati vethey body, the SSPO, than itthe has done tothrough date.

The toWe know who are, and wethe hope industry, its at Fish warm tributes from his friends and colleagues to mark the should be prepared toyou fivery ght back. the to REC report isall published.

Farmer wish him the best for the future.

Street, Bourne forward seeing many of there too. campaigners, we now see, will stop at representati ves, will pressure the parliament toand investi gateatbefore Rising stars Marti nBrown Jaff a Orkney anniversary Janet milestone and, along with the rest of thenothing, industry, thefarmers team Fish Lincolnshire PE10 9PH should prepared to fivery ght back. the RECbe report published.

Farmer wish himisall the best for the future.

Conte Conten 4-15 4-14 News 4-15 4-14 News

Fair hearing French connection Farmers must fight back Uphold the code Fair hearing French connection Farmers must Uphold the codefight back

Dave Edler

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16-21 16-17 16-22 Industry pioneer News Extra platform Parliamentary in 16-21 16-17 16-22 Industry pioneer News Extra platform Parliamentary inquir 22-23 18-19 24-27 Salmon market SSPO 22-23 18-19 24-27 Salmon market SSPO

24 20 20-21 28-29 BTA Shellfish Comment 24 20 20-21 28-29 BTA Shellfish Comment

@fishfarmermagazine

Cover: Workboat in ac�on at Orkney fish farm Photo: Angus Blackburn

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Tel: +44 (0)1778 392014

ons: £75 a year www.fishfarmer-magazine.com nowSubscrip� on @fishfarmermag Fish Farmer isUK ROW Subscrip� ons: £95 www.fishupdate.com a year including Facebook and Twitter Fish Farmer is now postage on www.fishfarmermagazine.com - All Air Mailwww.fishfarmer-magazine.com www.fishupdate.com Facebook andthe Twitter Contact us Meet team

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26 22-23 30 Shellfi sh Comment BTA 26 22-23 30 BTA Shellfi sh Comment 28-31 24-25 32-33 SSPO Comment Scottish Shellfi sh Sea Far 28-31 24-25 32-33 SSPO Comment Scottish Shellfi sh Sea Farms Rising stars Marti nBrown Jaff a Orkney anniversary Janet 32-33 26-27 26-30 34-35 Shellfi shfiSea Cleaner sh Far Scottish Comment 32-33 26-27 26-30 34-35 Janet Machrihanish Orkney farm Marti nBrown Jaff a visit Shellfi shfiSea Cleaner sh Farms Scottish Comment 13

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Janet Machrihanish Orkney farm Marti nBrown Jaff a visit Advisory Board: Steve Contact Tel: +44(0) us 131 551 1000 MeetEditorial the team Fax: +44(0) 131 551 7901 Bracken, Scott Landsburgh, Hervé Steve Bracken, Scott HervéLandsburgh, Migaud, Editorial Advisory Board: Steve Tel: +44(0) 131 551 1000 Migaud, PatrickJim Smith and Jim Hervé Patrick Smith, PatrickMigaud, Smith, Treasurer and Fax: email: +44(0) 131 551 7901 Bracken, Scott Landsburgh, Hervé Steve Bracken, Scott HervéLandsburgh, Migaud, jhjul@fi shupdate.com Treasurer, Wiliam Jim Treasurer and Dowds William Dowdsemail: William Dowds Marti nofJaff a era Vaccines New player Dawn Migaud, PatrickJim Smith and Jim Hervé Patrick Smith, PatrickMigaud, Smith, Treasurer and 3 new Editor: Jenny Hjul jhjul@fi shupdate.com Treasurer, Wiliam Jim Treasurer and Dowds William Dowds William Dowds Head Office: Special Publications, Dawn Marti nofJaff a era Vaccines New player new Designer: Andrew Balahura Fettes Park, 496 Ferry Road, Editor: Jenny Hjul Advertising Manager: Team Leader: HeadEdinburgh, Office: Special Publications, EH5 2DL Designer: Andrew Balahura Fettes Park, 496 Ferry Road, Dave Edler 14/09/2020 14:53:10 Advertising Manager: Team Leader: Figure 9. Development of salmon nominal catch in sou

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36-39 32-35 34-35 43-45 Wild salmon Cleaner fish decl Orkney IoA careers 36-39 32-35 34-35 43-45

Contents

Fish F armer In the September issue...

News

What’s happening in the UK and around the world

SSPO

24-25

Hamish MacDonell

Shellfish

26-27

Nicki Holmyard

The Omega Factor

28-33

Sandy Neil

Comment

34-35

Mar�n Jaffa

Good Stewardship

36-37

Vince McDonagh

A Passion for Salmon

38-41

Atholl Duncan interview

Grieg Seafood

42

Grieg Seafood makes 5 new signings

Loch Lomond Salmon

44-45

The long plan

Letters

46

Le�ers to the Editor

Eastern Promise

48-49

Vince McDonagh

Processing News

All the latest news from the processing industry

Busy Boats All Lit Up

54-55

Cages, pens, nets and moorings

What’s New

Monthly update on industry innova�ons and solu�ons

Industry Diary

All the latest aquaculture events, conferences and courses

Aqua Source Directory

60-61 62 64-65

Find all you need for the industry

Opinion

66

Nick Joy

28

ff09 Contents.indd 4

50 51-52

Boats and Harves�ng

4

6-22

38

51

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:56:58

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United Kingdom News

NEWS...

Scottish Sea Farms snap up local talent

Above: Robbie Coutts (L) and Will Scott (R)

SCOTTISH Sea Farms has promoted two senior staff to new area manager roles following the recent restructuring of its Northern Isles farming region.

Robbie Coutts has been appointed Shetland Area Manager while Will Scott will take up the role of Area Manager for Orkney.

Both will support Richard Darbyshire, who became Northern Isles regional manager after the consolidation of the Shetland and Orkney estates at the beginning of August.

Announcing the new appointments, Darbyshire said: ‘Both Robbie and Will have a sound understanding of the company’s systems and processes, meaning they can hit the ground running in their new roles.

‘But perhaps most exciting is that, together, they bring a complementary blend of skills and knowledge to the roles that will be of huge practical support both to myself and our farm teams across the Northern Isles region as we strive to deliver our best performances yet.

‘The fact that we’re promoting from within

6

ff09 news MASTER.indd 6

the company also means that there will soon be two new opportunities available for those interested in advancing their own roles.’

Coutts has amassed 18 years’ practical experience of marine farming in Shetland waters with Scottish Sea Farms, progressing from Health and Quality Technician, to Trainee Manager then Farm Manager of Holms, Lippie and Teisti.

A graduate of the University of Aberdeen with an Honours Degree in Marine Resource Management, he is also an active figure in the Shetland community. He said getting the promotion was ‘a very proud moment’.

‘I’ve been with the company a long time, working my way up, and I’ve known most of the guys here since I started.

‘The restructuring is good for the whole region and will hopefully involve a few other people progressing as well.’

In his new position, which he starts tomorrow Tuesday 1 September, Coutts will be travelling widely, visiting all the company’s farms in the area, a challenge he takes in his stride.

‘I drive past every salmon farm in Shetland to get to my current work so I know them all already!’ he said.

Kirkwall native Scott joined Scottish Sea Farms in 2013 and has held a number of roles, including Biomass Assessor, Health and Safety Coordinator and, most recently, Fish Health and Welfare Manager.

Last November, he was one of several Scottish Sea Farms’ employees to enrol on the Scottish Aquaculture Innovation Centre Leadership Programme, a mix of on-site learning and personal development.

Scott welcomed the new opportunity: ‘We’ve had a lot of consistency with the management team in Orkney so to be able to continue that is really important.

‘I came in with the minimum experience but Richard had faith in me and has given me the confidence to progress and expand my role.

‘We’ve had a really good run of results in the last three years and now we’re able to put things in place to push on to the next stage and it’s exciting to be a key part of that.’

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 14:59:26

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14/09/2020 11:51:46 03/12/2019 16:48

United Kingdom News

AquaGen Scotland welcomes production director

Above: Joaquin Garcia Nuñez

Chilean national Joaquin Garcia Nuñez, has been appointed as production director for AquaGen Scotland, charged with leading developments at the company’s Holywood hatchery, near Dumfries. He will also keep a professional eye on the Scottish brood fish populations, which are located in a number of sites on the Scottish west coast and in the Northern Isles.

Garcia Nuñez has been with AquaGen since 1999, most recently as global production

development manager, based in Scotland, but working between the global company’s operations in Scotland, Norway and Chile.

‘I continue to champion and manage global best practice, but my immediate focus is to ensure the new and enthusiastic team at Holywood are fully trained to maintain optimum husbandry of the broodstock and manage the egg production. This is a complex task, which is all about predictability, and our most important goal is to take a positive

approach to local production and to focus fully on getting a high-quality egg,’ he said.

For Garcia Nuñez this means reducing risk in the production cycle, which in turn reduces risk for customers. Implementing the highest biosecurity standards is a key factor, along with advanced water quality and temperature monitoring systems, to warn of any deviations from the norm in the broodstock unit and hatchery. In a live prouction business, there is little room for mistakes.

AquaGen Scotland produces eggs specifically for the Scottish market, with genetics tailored to local conditions. Good growth rates come as standard with the AquaGen strain, but Scottish customers also look for robustness, and for resistance to gill disease and sealice.

Ongoing trials show that the company’s genomic selection process is effective in achieving this.

Since purchasing the Holywood hatchery in 2019 and instigating a complete re-fit to repurpose it from a smolt production facility, AquaGen has worked hard to overcome early teething troubles with equipment, and with the working and supply restrictions imposed

by Covid-19.

However, Garcia Nuñez is confident that the team is ready for the task ahead.

‘We aim to produce around 30 million eggs over the next 9 months, and are looking forward to a good season. Eggs will be available from mid-October until June,’ he said.

Andy Reeve, AquaGen Scotland managing director, welcomes the new position.

‘The knowledge and experience that Joaquin brings with him to this role will be a critical factor in the successful development of our business here in Scotland. I am confident that with his energy and enthusiasm, we will soon be reliably supplying the best locally selected genetics packaged in the highest quality egg,’ he said.

Dawnfresh apprentice is NAFC Student of the Year Valentina Romano has been named as the winner in the ‘Higher Education Student of the Year category’ in the NAFC Marine Centre annual awards sponsored by the University of the Highlands and Islands.

Valentina completed a Technical Apprenticeship in Aquaculture Management while working at Dawnfresh Seafoods’ Kinnaird Mill Trout Farm near Brechin. NAFC’s Head of Aquaculture Training Stuart Fitzsimmons nominated Valentina for the award due to the excellent standard of her work and her level of dedication, commitment and

8

ff09 news MASTER.indd 8

enthusiasm. In January Valentina was named as a Higher Education Award Winner and winner of a prestigious CARAS (Council for Awards of Agricultural Societies) awards at the Lantra Scotland 2020 Awards.

Valentina will now be considered for the overall University of the Highlands and Islands Further and Higher Education Student of the Year Awards to be announced later this year.

Right: Valentina Romano

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:00:13

All the latest industry news from the UK

Ace Aquatec chief wins award

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

ff09 news MASTER.indd 9

KODIAK

EXTREME

NATHAN Pyne-Carter, managing director of aquaculture technology supplier Ace Aquatec, has been named by the Institute of Directors Scotland (IODS) as one of Scotland’s top directors at its annual Director of the Year awards.

The Dundee based businessman secured the Director of the Year for Tayside and Fife award.

Announcing their decision, a spokesman for the judging panel said: ‘Nathan has shown an innovative approach to his R&D development and getting his solutions to market.

‘He reinvests revenues in additional R&D and staffing to ensure he has the right blend of expertise and is continually looking to overseas markets to both develop his offerings and gain a foothold in areas that do not have his technology.

‘His support of his people and utilisation of academia to develop his products really stood out.

‘He has set clear key strategic goals for growth and has clear people strategies, both aimed at developing and growing his business.’

Ace Aquatec produces a range of aquaculture technology including acoustic and non-acoustic predator deterrents, an electric in-water stunning device and biomass measurement that uses real 3D data to improve accuracy.

Earlier this year, the company announced investment from technology entrepreneurs and co-founders of 4J Studios, Chris van der Kuyl and Paddy Burns.

Ace Aquatec also recently announced it had expanded into Chile, opening a new base in Puerto Montt.

Malcolm Cannon, national director of the IoD Scotland, said: ‘“Nathan is no stranger to the awards, having been recognised last year as Innovation Director of the Year.

‘His ambition to globalise his technology whilst maintaining a focus on the development of his team, even in a challenging environment, makes him a worthy winner of the award.’

Warmth and Comfort

CONDITIONS

Above: Nathan Pyne-Carter

Manufacturer

in France since 1964

www.guycotten.com

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14/09/2020 15:00:36

United Kingdom News

OTAQ appoints two key figures OTAQ Group has announced the appointment of two key figures as the underwater tech company continues its drive to grow turnover to £50m by 2025. Chris Hyde steps into the role of as Chief Technical Officer having filled the position of Chief Commercial Officer since 2015 and Maurice Coull joins the marine technology company as Chief Engineer.

The Aberdeen based company which also has offices in Lancaster, Ulverston and Puerto Montt in Chile specialise in developing and improving underwater technology products.Their aquaculture product development plan will be bolstered by the new appointments as the company, founded in 2005, focuses on driving innovation and delivering new product lines.

Phil Newby, Chief Executive Officer, Above: Chris Hyde OTAQ, said: ‘We’re delighted Chris has taken on this key role and that Maurice has agreed to join OTAQ. with both of them ready to push ahead with product development plans. With a combined 65 years of industry experience, Chris and Maurice have the expertise and enthusiasm needed to strengthen and support the engineering department with innovative new product development.

‘Chris has proven to be a key member of the team over the last five years’ as Chief Commercial Officer. Having steered the team to develop industry leading systems for aquaculture and offshore energy markets, including IP cameras, lead detection, laser measurement systems, connectors and penetrators, we’re looking forward to seeing him build on his achievements.

‘Maurice is an accomplished engineer within the Diving and Remote Technology sector. With an eye for quality and an indepth understanding of detail in concept, design and manufacturing, he is a valued and exciting addition to OTAQ.’ A founding member of the OTAQ team, Chris has over 25 years’ experience in systems and technology for aquaculture and offshore energy.This experience, combined with a drive to build an even stronger product development team will see

OTAQ deliver new product lines across the group.

Chris Hyde, Chief Technical Officer, OTAQ, said: ‘I am really looking forward to my new role as Chief Technical Officer and the new challenges that will come with the position. I plan on delivering an enhanced product strategy focussed on aquaculture, primarily targeting, algal bloom analysis, video-based AI technologies, control and data platforms and enhancing our predator deterrent systems.’

Over the last five years, Maurice has led the build of large projects primarily for new clients in Singapore, as Engineering Manager & Technical Authority at Fathom Systems.

Prior to this, he ran his own engineering company, Immerse Technologies Ltd, for over eight years working for clients in the Aberdeen area. As Chief Engineer for OTAQ Group, Maurice will drive product development, primarily with a focus on OTAQ Aquaculture Ltd where several ongoing long-term projects are in progress.

Maurice Coull, Chief Engineer, OTAQ, said: ‘I am looking forward to starting the next stage of my career with OTAQ, using my ROV, Autonomous Underwater Vehicle and most recently Diving System experience to lead product development.This is a very exciting time to join the company and I am eager to see what lies ahead.’

Welsh ‘seafood cluster’ creates new customers SEAFOOD from West Wales is being served in East Wales thanks to a recent partnership between two food businesses.

Working together, Torfaen restaurant wholesaler, Vin Sullivan Foods Ltd, and Pembrokeshire seafood business Cardigan Bay Fish have succeeded in boosting their businesses by generating a host of new customers.

With support from the Wales Seafood Cluster, the two enterprises are now delivering seafood to customers across South East Wales.

Above: Vin Sullivan Foods

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The Wales Seafood Cluster is a Cywainled project which encourages and facilitates collaborative working among businesses and individuals in the seafood sector.

Owen Haines, Seafood Cluster Manager (South Wales) said: ‘Collaboration is at the heart of the Seafood Cluster, and we hope more fishing and seafood enterprises will join together to build new, sustainable markets for their produce.

‘I’m delighted that by working together Vin Sullivan and Cardigan Bay Fish have been able to tap into a new customer base that is eager to buy Welsh seafood.

‘Coming together to create new selling opportunities is obviously good for the profile of Welsh Seafood and those whose livelihoods depend on a ready market for their catch.

‘The past six months have been particularly difficult and challenging for the fishing industry, and as a Cluster, we have been working closely with many businesses to find ways to mitigate the market affects created by Covid-19.’

Part of the work to promote Welsh Seafood includes the creation of magnetic ‘Welsh

Seafood and More to your Door’ signage that may be attached to delivery vehicles.

The eye-catching design highlights the #WelshSeafood and #SupportLocalSupportWales messages promoted by Cywain, as well as the ‘Port to Plate’ project - launched by Menter a Busnes in February - to carve out a distinct identity for seafood products from Wales.

Lesley Griffiths, the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, said: ‘Working together Vin Sullivan Foods and Cardigan Bay Fish have successfully generated new markets for both businesses.

‘Over the last few months we have seen people increasingly buy local, with innovative and collaborative ventures of this kind creating more opportunities for the public to buy and enjoy a range of fantastic, fresh Welsh produce. This not only boosts local economies but also supports our ambition for a greener Wales with shorter supply chains and healthier seas. I hope more people across Wales will seek out and support them as well as our other top class Welsh food businesses.’

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:01:14

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European News

NEWS...

Cora introduces range of algal fed salmon to French stores

HYPERMARKET chain Cora, which has 61 stores in France, is launching algal fed salmon, rich in essential EPA & DHA Omega-3, providing shoppers across the country with a high quality, tasty and healthy salmon with unrivalled sustainability credentials.

The launch follows the introduction of this highly nutritious salmon in Supermarché Match, which resulted in a 12% growth in salmon sales. Both Match and Cora are owned by Belgian retail group Louis Delhaize.

To sustainably achieve the high levels of EPA & DHA Omega-3, the salmon has been fed an innovative diet containing natural marine algal oil by Veramaris, which partly replaces wild fish in the salmon feed.

‘It’s the first time this range of salmon has been available on a national scale in France,’ according to Samuel Denoux and Jonathan Rotgé, Cora’s Seafood Director and Buying Manager respectively. ‘Our team is really proud to have mobilised an entire value chain to make this quality of salmon accessible to everyone.’

Commenting on the launch, Karim Kurmaly, Veramaris CEO, said: ‘First with Supermarché Match and now Cora deciding to offer salmon fed on Veramaris algal oil, French consumers have

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increased opportunity to purchase algal fed salmon and enjoy the benefits of consuming salmon which has both a nutritional and sustainability benefit.

‘The launch is testament to the progressive culture amongst French retailers who realise the benefits of selling salmon raised on this diet. Not only can it help increase the amount of EPA & DHA Omega-3 in the French diet, our algal oil is also sustainable as it can replace fish oil coming from wild-catch forage fish.’

The French diet is deficient in EPA & DHA Omega-3[1]. As a nation not enough seafood, in particular oily fish, is consumed but these natural nutrients are essential for health.

‘EPA & DHA Omega-3 perform an important role in supporting heart, eye and brain health, and in regulating and resolving inflammationwithin the body preventing the level of inflammation becoming too high.

You could say they strengthen the body’s natural defences.’ comments Dr. Patrick Sérog.

Veramaris’ natural marine algal oil offers an alternative and sustainable solution to using forage fish which, traditionally, have been used to feed salmon. What’s more, Veramaris’ natural marine algal oil contains twice the amount of both EPA & DHA Omega-3 compared to fish oil.

AKVA wins Iceland feed barge deal THE Icelandic salmon company Laxar Fiskeldi is to buy a large new feed barge from the AKVA group to meet an expected east coast increase in output over the next few years.

The vessel, known as the AC 650 Panorama has a large feeding capacity of 650 metric tons in 12 silos, eight feeding lines and an option for the AKVA hybrid battery pack. It is also the second feed barge Laxar Fiskeldi has ordered from AKVA. Hans-Øyvind Sagen, AKVA’s Nordic sales director, said: ‘Iceland is an exciting, up-and-coming market with great opportunities for further growth.

With this delivery we are consolidating our leading position as a supplier of feed barges to Iceland.’

Laxar Fiskeldi is located close to AKVA group’s service station in Eskifjordur, and already has a delivery and service agreement with the company for net equipment.

‘It is a good foundation to further develop our collaboration in fish farming equipment. We look forward to following Laxar’s production and further growth,’ Sagen added.

Laxar Fiskeldi has recently received an increased production licence on the east coast of Iceland and is now heading for a capacity of up to 16,000 tonnes annually. Laxar’s production manager Gunnar Gunnarsson, who has considerable aquaculture experience, said: ‘We need feed barges with superior safety, stability and durability. In addition, silo, silage and feeding capacity and functionality are key.

Good equipment is a significant success factor for us to succeed, and AC 650 Panorama from AKVA group has the qualities we are looking for.’ Delivery is expected next spring.

Above: AC 650 Panorama

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:01:53

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14/09/2020 11:56:34

European News

Aas Mek gives Hydroniq 3 wellboats contract NORWEGIAN shipbuilder Aas Mek. Verksted has awarded Hydroniq Coolers contracts to deliver the marine cooling system to three wellboats that the shipyard is building for wellboat company Sølvtrans.

‘We have supplied our seawater cooling system to many wellboats in recent years, but to be awarded three at the same time is rather unusual. This is undoubtedly a large and important delivery for us,’ says Jan Inge Johannesen, sales manager at Hydroniq Coolers.

Hydroniq will supply its hull-integrated ‘Rack’ seawater cooling system to the three wellboats. The ‘Rack’ cooler is integrated in the hull below the main engine room of the vessel, where it reduces temperatures in the ship’s engines and other auxiliary systems through use of seawater, but without taking up valuable engine room space. This is a favoured solution for both vessel crew and owners.

The three new wellboats are newbuilds number 208, 209 and 210 from Aas Mek. Verksted. Previously, Aas Mek. Verksted has contracted Hydroniq Coolers to deliver the same type of marine cooling system to

Above The ‘Rack’ cooling system

newbuilds 204, 205, 206 and 207.

‘Aas Mek. Verksted is one of the world’s leading wellboat builders. To be the yard’s preferred supplier is therefore a privilege,’ says Johannesen.

New cooling unit composition For the three newbuild wellboats, Aas Mek. Verksted, Sølvtrans and Hydroniq Coolers have together composed a new ‘Rack’ unit

which they hope will further increase the system’s operational flexibility. In the past, the companies have utilised two cooling systems within each ‘Rack’ unit, but these vessels will use three cooling systems within each unit. This eliminates the need for an external plate heat exchanger that is connected to the cooling unit.

‘It is inspiring to cooperate with yards and shipowners that are always looking to identify smarter and more cost-efficient solutions. Aas Mek. Verksted and Sølvtrans are definitely in this category,’ says Johannesen.

Hydroniq Coolers will manufacture and assemble the equipment at its headquarters outside Aalesund, Norway, and deliver it to Aas Mek. Verksted’s yard at Vestnes, Møre and Romsdal county in Norway.

The three sister wellboats are of the yard’s own design, type AAS 3002 ST. Each vessel has a load capacity of 3,000 cubic metres across two wells. They are 76.96 metres long, 17.80 metres wide and 5.80 metres depth moulded. The three newbuilds will be delivered to Sølvtrans during 2022.

Investors grab up Salmon Evolution shares THE Norwegian land based aquaculture company Salmon Evolution looks set to raise 500 million kroner – or more than £42-million – in new capital following a private placement of shares that was several times over subscribed.

It was announced only a few days ago that Salmon Evolution is partnering Dongwon Industries, South Korea’s largest fishing company, in a £130 million project to build one of the world’s most environmentally

advanced land farms on the Korean peninsular.

But in a private placement of shares in Oslo on Friday, the company received subscriptions for 100 million shares at five kroner each. Salmon Evolution said: ‘The Private Placement attracted very strong interest from Norwegian, Nordic and international high-quality institutional investors and was more than nine times oversubscribed, excluding shares pre-

allocated to cornerstone investors.’

The net proceeds from this private placement will be used to partly fund the first construction phase of the company’s land based salmon farming facility at Indre Harøy near Alesund in Central Norway and to further develop the project and for general corporate purposes. The farm will use a through-flow system taking seawater, much of which can be re-used and filtered.

Salmon Evolution chairman Tore Tønseth said a strong stock exchange listing was absolutely crucial for the future growth of the business, adding: ‘ We have always said that we will use the capital market actively and it is reassuring that such heavy investors come in with significant amounts’.

Salmon Evolution, which has also attracted investment worth NOK 50 million from South Korea’s Dongwon Industries, hopes to start trading on the Oslo Stock Exchange’s Merkur Market later this month.

Left: The first construction phase gets underway

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www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:02:32

All the latest industry news from Europe

Signify and ScaleAQ announce sustainable fish farming partnership

SIGNIFY, the world leader in lighting, and ScaleAQ have joined forces in a global strategic partnership for sustainable aquaculture solutions, to optimize feed conversion in the most efficient way and contribute to the food challenges the world is facing. Together the two companies will improve fish welfare, production and yield for fish farmers by providing an optimal light spectrum, light distribution and control system so farmers can customize the light recipes to their specific needs.

Optimal lighting improves fish welfare and results in a better feed conversion ratio and lower maturation rate. It also protects fish from sea lice infestation. Signify offers Philips Aquaculture LED lighting products that ScaleAQ will resell with an initial focus on marine based/seacage products.

Leveraging 125 years of Signify’s lighting experience in innovation, technology and equipment, the partnership provides customer tailored sustainable solutions to the aquaculture industry with focus on quality, efficiency, service and being future proof.

‘The aquaculture industry is growing rapidly and needs partnerships like this to meet the increasing need for local presence and support, while at the same time using R&D resources to develop solutions for the future.

Our focus on lighting recipes, IoT and data insights play a crucial role in optimizing agricultural businesses in the future, helping us to create customer solutions together with ScaleAQ that are solid growth platforms for fish farmers,’ says Bill Bien, head of Signify’s agricultural lighting business.

‘We are very pleased to be partnering with Signify on aquaculture lighting systems. As a global partner and advisor to the aquaculture industry it’s important for us to be able to offer a wide variety of products, and the Philips lights will be an important addition for both our sea-based and future land-based efforts. We believe the industry will also benefit from our collaboration on servicing the lights. ScaleAQ will from now on be able to provide its customers with service on the Philips lights from its many local offices around the world,’ says Per Ivar Lund, head of business development at ScaleAQ. In combination with the knowledge and experience of Signify’s fish specialists and technical experts, the partnership will help Signify to further develop the service it can give its global customers and strengthen customer relationships. ‘Our products can serve the very high demands a modern seacage puts on quality, durability and functionality, but with this partnership we will also focus on collecting even more customer insights to continuously improve the products we provide them with,’ says Bien.

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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14/09/2020 15:02:52

European News

25 companies to sue over traffic light scheme TWENTY five salmon and trout companies plan to sue the Norwegian government over the new fish farming traffic light scheme. They argue they are not only being robbed of part of their livelihood, but the country is losing out on the country’s second most important export product.

Under the plan introduced at the start of the year the coastline was divided into three colour regions – green where growth if free to take place, amber which allows for limited expansion and red where production must be reduced by at least six per cent. The red zone, known as Area-4 is located in the south west of Norway.

The Fish Farmer Magazine website reported at the time that many companies were unhappy and legal action was a possibility. Now 25 companies have got together and put their words into action by hiring a legal team to take on the Oslo government.

The Ministry of Trade and Industry said at the time that the red zone was necessary to reduce incidents of salmon lice and the threat to wild fish stocks. But Even Søfteland, a spokesperson for the aquaculture companies says the proposed reduction of six per cent is the equivalent of up to 12,000 tonnes or four million fish. The fish farming companies stress that while they are not against a traffic light scheme as such, there is no professional basis for the way it is being

implemented, pointing out that salmon lice incidents in the red zone are lower than at any time for many years. They also point out that the planned cutback will impact on many local communities who depend on aquaculture for additional tax revenues.

Nordlaks celebrates year of significant investment NOrdlAkS, the company behind the giant Havfarm1 salmon farming platform, invested more than 850 million kroner (£72 million) in 2019 – a year which it says an algae bloom outbreak affected production.

Nordlaks reported operating revenues of NOk 3.06 billion (£260 million), up from NOk 2.95 billion (£251 million) the previous year. After tax and financial costs the net annual profit was NOk 788 million (£67 million) although virtually all of it has gone into new investment.

Nordlaks CEO Eirik Weld said: ‘2019 was characterised by both an algae bloom outbreak and the fact that Nordlaks

has grown and made large investments to be ready to receive and start operations in the first sea farm. All in all, we are pleased with the results and that for the first time we have a turnover of more than NOk 3 billion in the course of one year. Nordlaks has invested a total of NOk 850 million last year in boats, feed rafts, industrial plots, water treatment plants, quays, sea farms, well boats and hatcheries.

‘Now that we have Havfarm 1 (also called the ‘Jostein Albert’) in operation we will start to see results in the future from the great industrial promise that Nordlaks has made in recent years. This obviously means

a lot to Nordlaks. It also involves over 500 northern Norwegian suppliers who have delivered small and large assignments to us for a total of NOk 1.3 billion. We intend to continue to invest in the years ahead.

‘So far this year Nordlaks has started production on the ‘Jostein Albert’, while the hatchery at Innhavet in Hamarøy has been completed. We also have the first of two new well boats which is expected to arrive before the turn of the year.’

Nordlaks was also awarded an additional 200 tonnes of potential production from new permits at the recent national salmon and trout licence auction.

Above: The Havfarm 1 ‘Jostein Albert’

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www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:03:22

All the latest industry news from Europe

Salmon companies summoned over escapes NORWAY’S Fisheries and Seafood Minister has called an urgent industry meeting to discuss the rising number of salmon escapes over the past few months.

Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen has expressed his concern at the rate of increase and suggested that fish farming companies are not doing enough to tackle the problem: ‘Escaped farmed salmon are a threat to wild salmon and it affects not just our credibility as a seafood nation but also the reputation of the aquaculture industry. And then there is the financial loss to the industry.

There is no one who benefits from this. The vision is and will be zero escaped salmon.’

Fish farming companies have reported several escapes this summer, mostly along the Trondelag coast, including some high profile incidents, notably the loss of fish from SalMar’s giant Ocean Farm platform a couple of weeks ago.

Minister Ingebrigtsen acknowledged that the industry had been working to solve the problem over the past few years, but said there were still too many incidents. He added: ‘I am not happy with the current state of affairs. The fish farmers are responsible for ensuring that their fish stay inside the cages. I am now inviting the industry to a meeting to hear what they have done since my

predecessor demanded measures to overcome this problem.’

He was backed up by Øyvind Lie, coastal and aquaculture director at the Fisheries Directorate, who said a significant reduction in escapes was needed: ‘We watch this area closely and it is quite obvious the industry must improve. Our statistics show that is is during the handling of fish, for example when de-licing takes place, that leads to escape incidents. We are working with the industry to find out more about the causes.’

Left: Odd Emil Ingebrigtsen Below: SalMar Ocean Farm

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14/09/2020 15:03:42

European News

BioMar announces best ever half year results

Above: Carlos Diaz

THE Q2 report for BioMar has been released by parent company, Schouw & Co. The report underlines the sustainable growth of BioMar as increased volumes and revenue are accompanied by strong earnings. Following an impressive Q1, BioMar Group continues to deliver solid financial results. The sales volume increased by 9%, while the revenue increased by 7% compared to Q2 last year.

The growth was mainly delivered by robust performance in the salmon markets across geographies, supported by the new salmon business in Australia. A strong product portfolio, competitive product offerings and close collaboration with the customers fighting the challenges of the pandemic have been some of the factors driving the results: ‘We have seen that in times of crisis, solutions are to be found working together across the value chain. During the last months we have collaborated with suppliers and customers ensuring business continuity and a stable food supply to the end-consumers. At the same time, we have experienced an immense dedication from our employees engaging in delivering high quality products and very competitive product solutions to our customers despite lockdowns and market challenges’, explains Carlos Diaz, CEO in BioMar Group.

While the salmon feed busi-

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ness units have been high-performing during Q2 compared same quarter last year, the shrimp feed business has been slightly challenged due to the interruption of the Ecuadorian shrimp export to China following COVID-19. At the same time, the Mediterranean markets have been challenged to the HORECA sector closing almost completely down in most European markets and travel restrictions affecting the tourist season, in addition to the storm ‘Gloria’ in Spain destroying significant farming capacity: ‘This spring and early summer have been a very challenging and volatile period for all our business units, and we have constantly been on our toes.

Fortunately, we have built an operation model where local agility is a cornerstone. Hence our business units have been empowered to find solutions together with the customers as the situation evolved. Being guided by a strong purpose makes it easier to be aligned and innovate when the world is constantly changing’, continues Carlos Diaz.

‘I am proud, we are getting through the first period of the pandemic with such positive results. However, we are not on the other side yet and there will most likely be a further business impact from the challenging market conditions for our customers and as BioMar we will be there to support’.

Mowi take Q2 hit due to covid MOWI’S results in the second quarter were substantially impacted by Covid-19 and the extensive lockdown measures. Prices for salmon declined in all markets during the quarter resulting in reduced profits.

‘Despite current market and logistical disruptions caused by Covid-19, Mowi’s operations have been running close to normal so far.We have implemented a wide range of protective measures to limit the spread of the virus in our operations.The safety and well-being of our employees is always top priority and we will do whatever we can to keep operations running without compromising health and safety,’ says Mowi CEO, Ivan Vindheim.

Mowi Consumer Products benefitted from a shift in demand from foodservice to retail due to the global lockdown measures, and delivered all-time high sold volumes and results for a second quarter.

‘This is an impressive result under the prevailing circumstances and demonstrates yet again the importance of Mowi’s downstream strategy,’ says Vindheim.

Mowi reported operational revenues of EUR 911 million (EUR 1 021 million) in the second quarter of 2020.Total harvest volume in the quarter of 104 303 tonnes (98 483) was approximately in line with guidance. Full year harvest guidance for 2020 is reduced by 8 000 tonnes to 442 000 tonnes due to biological issues in Scotland.

Mowi introduced a cost saving programme in 2018 and the company has cut cost by EUR 118 million to date. However, Mowi continues to experience cost pressure in its farming operations from more challenging biology, stricter regulations and a general cost increase from input factors.This also impacts the rest of the value chain.After feed, labour is the most important cost item in Mowi.The Board has therefore decided to include a productivity programme in the cost saving programme, targeting a 10% reduction in headcount for Mowi as-is by 2024.

‘Addressing cost will continue to be of utmost importance in the future.

This will be realized through automation, digitalisation, improvement of production processes and rightsizing of the organisation. Mowi’s strategy is still to grow the company and the aim is to continue to be a net job creator,’ says Vindheim.

‘Distributing dividends to its shareholders is an essential part of Mowi’s financial strategy.At the same time the Board considers it is key to maintain a strong financial position, particularly in light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Hence, under the prevailing circumstances the Board has not found it appropriate to distribute a quarterly dividend for the first and second quarter’.

IFFO launches new website The Marine Ingredients Organisation the IFFO have launched their new look website, www.iffo.com, packed full of educational resources tailored to different audiences’ needs.

New features on the website include a ‘Key facts’ section providing easily digestible information on the marine ingredients industry, from responsible sourcing to the diverse and vital uses in the global food chain. The section also contains articles from leading scientists on nutrition and the use of marine ingredients.

It features a ‘Knowledge hub’ with more in-depth articles on the sourcing, processing and usage of marine ingredients. It includes a wealth of insights from experts on the latest research works on marine ingredients and their benefits to both animal growth and human health. This section contains a ‘Studies of interest’ resource centre with direct access to research papers focusing on environmental impacts, nutrition, responsible supply as well as regional focuses.

The website also offers IFFO’s members exclusive access to the members area, containing a unique range of trade and statistical reports, plus technical and regulatory support.

Petter M. Johannessen, IFFO Director General, said: ‘This new website reflects IFFO’s mission, which is to highlight the marine ingredients industry’s role in feeding a growing population.

While the industry, as a vital part of the global food production system, sits in a complex value chain, we need to engage with a diverse audience and provide materials that suit their needs.’

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:04:10

All the latest industry news from Europe

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14/09/2020 11:57:48

World News

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Ace Aquatec opens Chile office observing their processes SCOTTISH and defining improvement aquaculture points where we apply technology solutions focused on animal supplier Ace welfare and efficiency Aquatec has from the point of view announced that of operation and costs.’ it has opened said Charpentier. ‘We are its first regional confident that we will office in Chile. be relevant actors in the This is the first Chilean salmon industry. office in South The concepts behind each America that the of our designs, equipment, Scottish company and our technology bring have launched. leading-edge results.

Ace Aquatec ‘The decision to expand is a market into South America and leader in ethical open an office in Chile aquaculture Above: José Luis Charpen�er was a logical step in our technology in business growth strategy”, said Nathan the United Kingdom. Its expertise Pyne-Carter, Managing Director, Ace ranges from acoustic and non-acoustic Aquatec. “Innovation is at the heart of predator deterrents that are safe for everything we do, and we are looking marine mammals to electric in-water forward to working collaboratively with stunning that improves animal welfare new partners and clients to develop at slaughter, and biomass measurement products for this exciting new region.’ that uses real 3D data to improve Earlier this year, Ace Aquatec accuracy.They have contracts with all announced investment from Scottish the major UK fish farms – including technology entrepreneurs, and coScottish Sea Farms and Scottish Salmon founders of 4J Studios, Chris van der Company – and already have a number Kuyl and Paddy Burns. 4J Studios is one of international installations, including of the UK’s most successful videogame with Chilean processing partners Abick. developers and it is responsible for the Having recently won the Queen’s Award multi-million selling and multi awardfor Enterprise Innovation and the winning Minecraft Console editions.

Global Aquaculture Alliance Innovation Ace Aquatec’s innovative products Award for the positive effects their range from acoustic devices that products have on animal welfare and protect fish farms from predators and sustainability; the company now expands humane electric stunning equipment its international operations to South that immediately renders fish America. unconscious before they leave the water Based in Puerto Montt, the Chilean to be processed, to the world’s first office is led by Regional Manager underwater 3D biomass camera that José Luis Charpentier. José has an provides unobtrusive indicators of fish extensive background in aquaculture, health.The company exports to New especially in the Salmon industry. He Zealand, Australia, USA, Canada, Mexico, has held farming roles varying from Japan, Greece, Germany, Denmark and Marine Biologist to Production and Russia.

Commercial Management, and before Ace Aquatec will be present at Aqua joining the Ace Aquatec team he Sur; the largest international aquaculture introduced LED photoperiod lighting exhibition in the southern hemisphere, systems to many Chilean farms as part which will take place in Puerto Montt, of Bioled Chile.

Chile from 3-5 March 2021 at stand ‘At Ace Aquatec we are constantly B307. working together with our clients,

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Dongwon to launch land based ‘smart farm’ in South Korea DONGWON Industries, South Korea’s largest fishing group, has announced that it intends to go ahead with its plan to enter the aquaculture business by building a large environmentally land based smart salmon farm in the country.

Dongwon is linking up with Norway’s Salmon Evolution by investing in the business and using its advanced technology. Work is expected to start within the next few months and, when completed, the £130 million project will be capable of producing up to 20,000 tonnes of salmon a year. The project will be located in Yangyang county in the province of Gangwon. The province forms part of north east South Korea and borders the Sea of Japan and its hostile neighbour, North Korea.

Dongwon Industries said it is planning to grow South Korea’s domestic aquaculture industry, ‘which has remained at the level of the light industry until now, into a heavy industry level industry through large-scale facility investment and a land salmon farming complex based on cutting-edge new technology’.

The statement added: ‘This state-of-the-art facility will incorporate a ‘Flow Through System-Reuse’ technology and smart construction method based on its Fourth Industrial Revolution technology. The ‘seawater circulation’ technology is an advanced peel environment onshore aquaculture technology secured by Dongwon Industries through an investment agreement with Norwegian onshore aquaculture company Salmon Evolution in July.’

Unlike conventional aquaculture methods that require periodic total replacement of contaminated farm seawater, only 35 per cent of seawater needs to be replaced, meaning that the remaining 65 per cent can be reused through continuous circulation to maintain a constant aquaculture environment.

Lee Myung-woo, CEO of Dongwon Industries, said: ‘During the fierce global food resource war, we have established our own domestic salmon farming complex to secure stable and sustainable fisheries resources. We plan to foster it as Asia’s largest fisheries bio-industrial complex in the future.’

Dongwon Industries is currently engaged in conventional fishing, fish processing and the distribution of seafood products. Now it is adding aquaculture to its portfolio – and in a big way.

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:04:37

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14/09/2020 12:03:01

World News

69% drop in China exports

CHINA delivered the biggest export hit to Norwegian salmon farmers during August, according to the country’s seafood council.

A year ago it was the largest growth market by far, but because of Covid-19 and the various scares around the pandemic, sales have slumped.

Salmon exports alone to China fell by 69 per

cent when compared to August last year, figures show. And it is not just salmon – other types of seafood have suffered almost as much.

Seafood sales to China in August totalled 7,600 tonnes and were worth NOK 214 million. This is a volume decrease of 43 per cent and a drop in value of 54 per cent.

Victoria Braathen, the Seafood Council’s envoy to China, said: ‘The Chinese salmon market has been affected by two waves, first in the eruption of Covid-19, and then in connection with the so-called incident at a food market in Beijing in June and subsequent media cases about corona and seafood. While the first wave affected the restaurant and hotel market, the second wave has had a broader effect on the market.

We expect demand to pick up again over the autumn.’

But if China has been a disappointment, sales to France are picking up strongly with consumption increasing by 20 per cent last month.

Trine Horne, the seafood council’s French envoy, said: ‘Even though France has now opened up, we see a strong trend towards continued increased home consumption.

‘Norwegian fresh salmon has a strong position in the French grocery trade, and with continued high domestic consumption, this will intensify. This autumn, the Seafood Council is running a major media campaign against French consumers, so it will be extra exciting to follow the development further.’

Salmon consumption in Italy is also thought to be on the rise.

Kvaroy launch salmon burgers & hot dogs onto US market ICONIC American grill favourites now come in four new flavours with the introduction of Kvarøy Arctic’s salmon burgers and hot dogs debuting on FultonFishMarket.com. The new frozen pantry staples, made with American Heart Association certified sustainable Kvarøy Arctic Atlantic salmon, were available for direct overnight delivery to homes across the United States starting on August 24, 2020.

‘People are craving new ways to cook seafood at home now more than ever,’ says Jennifer Bushman, Kvarøy Arctic’s head of strategic development. ‘Our goal is to offer something that is easy to prepare and in craveable, comforting flavours. We’re so proud to introduce these familiar options that are also so unique in the seafood retail space.’

‘We are so excited to add Kvarøy Arctic salmon burgers and salmon dogs to our assortment of the world’s best seafood,’ says FultonFishMarket.com CEO Ryan Fibiger. ‘Our customers love discovering new products, and these items are made for today’s busy home consumer. They’re healthy, convenient, delicious and perfect for the whole family.’

Two blends of the boldly spiced burgers and smokey dogs were available on FultonFishMarket. com starting August 24: • Original Recipe • Original & Cheese

sustainably raised salmon makes it easy to grill or pan-fry the burgers and dogs with a result that is both juicy and perfectly browned. Made with the quality trimmings of Kvarøy Arctic fillets, these burgers and dogs are a solution to prevent food waste while also offering an exciting new way to enjoy salmon at home. Kvarøy Arctic worked hand-in-hand with its valued partners at Eat Salmon and Platina Seafood based in Stranda, Norway to develop the flavors, packaging and logistics for bringing this unique offering to market.

The full suite of four flavour options is available for retailers across the country to sample and carry in stores at a future date, including: • Original Recipe • Original & Cheese • Jalapeno & Cheese • Chile and Cheddar Cheese The natural buttery texture of Kvarøy Arctic’s Above: The Kvarøy Arc�c’s salmon burger

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www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:05:27

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14/09/2020 12:03:55

Coronavirus crisis – Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation

BY HAMISH MACDONELL

déjà vu

Covid crisis pushes our departure from the EU under the radar

‘I

t’s déjà vu all over again.’

Baseball legend Yogi Berra may not have been talking about Brexit, but he certainly could have been.

First there was March last year, then there was October last year. On each occasion we were told to prepare for a No Deal Brexit only to be led back from the cliff at the last moment.

This time, however, it’s for real. The transition phase easing the UK’s departure from the EU will finish at the end of this year. There will be no retreat.

What we don’t know, is what sort of deal we are going to get – if we get one at all. But one thing’s for sure, deal or no deal, this will not be a soft Brexit: it will be more iron plate than feather pillow.

Those who have studied the detail have a pretty good idea of what we are going to have to cope with. The problem is that hardly anyone else has the capacity to think about this right now.

The Covid crisis has presented something so fundamentally ground-breaking and immediate that nothing else, even our imminent departure from our biggest trading block, has the ability to cut through.

As one of the current buzz phrases in government would have it – noone has the bandwith for anything else except Covid at the moment.

To put it crudely, the choice for business is this: cope with a big crisis right now or a smaller crisis in a few months. Understandably, the big crisis wins, every time. And that is precisely why there is an air of quiet desperation (occasionally carrying with it the faint whiff of panic) pervading the corridors of power in Holyrood and Westminster.

Ministers, officials, special advisers and assorted civil servants can see what’s coming. They can picture the drone footage shot by TV news crews, showing the apparently endless queues of trucks parked up waiting to get across the Channel.

They can envisage the arguments and wrangles over paperwork, tempers fraying as exasperated exporters try to reason with intransigent border guards.

They can see trucks returning with consignments undelivered and, crucially for our sector, they can picture the lorry loads of fish sitting outside the huge seafood market at Boulogne-sur-Mer, waiting the best part of a day for it to re-open, having been too late for its short opening hours on the day they arrived.

As has always been the case when thinking about Brexit, the issues for the Scottish farmed salmon sector are those linked to the non-tariff barriers. By that we mean extra paperwork, red tape and bureaucracy

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all leading to confusion, mistakes, queues and delays.

And it is almost certain to be the delays which cause our members the biggest problems.

Our exports to the continent are – for the moment at least - remarkably efficient. Our fish can be harvested in the early hours of one day and be at the market in Boulogne-sur-Mer the next.

But the time margins at the French seafood market are tight so even a couple of hours extra in getting across the Channel can means a whole day’s delay in getting the fish to market.

Throw in drivers’ hours (an extra couple of hours edging along in slow traffic will put many drivers over their statutory limit), customs declarations, food labelling confusion and new pallet regulations and it’s easy to see why this is unlikely to be either smooth or easy.

Brexit was always going to present our sector with challenges but there is more at stake now.

Because of Covid and the impact it has had on long-haul exports, the French and European markets are more important than ever. That is why the SSPO has ramped up its efforts over Brexit in the last few weeks and will do so exponentially over the final quarter of this year.

Covid conference calls into government have become Brexit calls, CoronaVirus meetings are now end-of-transition meetings with ministers and officials everywhere trying desperately to sort out the myriad of potential problems in advance of the immoveable December 31 deadline.

One of the key issues is the prioritisation of seafood consignments. The indications we are getting are that we will be successful in securing that.

We expect a system of categorisation to be put in place for traffic heading for the Channel

SSPO “hasTheramped

up its efforts over Brexit in the last few weeks and will do so exponentially over the final quarter of this year

”

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:08:38

Brexit déjà vu

and that our trucks will be given priority, simply because the loads are perishable. But what we don’t know is how many other sectors will also given priority as well. Too many and the system will grind to a halt, too few and there will be legal challenges and disgruntled hauliers switching into the priority lanes and taking their chances.

Then there’s the issue of all the extra export health cer�ficates that will be needed. There have been really helpful offers of support from Food Standards Scotland but will the new systems work? Will the new paperwork be accepted in the EU? At the moment, nobody knows.

But if there’s one silver lining for the Scot�sh salmon sector its that the hard Brexit

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SSPO.indd 25

deadline will arrive just a�er the Christmas rush. We can serve all our European customers with their fes�ve produce and then aim to ease off in the immediate period a�er New Year. For, if Covid has taught us anything, its how to adapt quickly and flexibly to rapidly changing markets.

It is almost certainly for that reason, if for no other, that Scotland’s salmon farmers are more sanguine about Brexit now than they ever were before. However bad it is, it can’t be as tough as Covid – that’s the general feeling.

There will be problems, there will be delays, there will be queues and there will be confusion over paperwork. Some fish won’t get to market on �me, some fish won’t get to market at all and there will be anger, frustra�on and confronta�on.

But, to turn to the great American sage Yogi Berra once again and his claim that the ‘future ain’t what it used to be’ - perhaps ‘Brexit ain’t what it used to be’ either.

Let’s hope so. FF

Above: A sign of things to come? Lorries stacked up

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14/09/2020 15:09:16

Shellfish

BY NICKI HOLMYARD

Present and future seafood Where will it come from and what do consumers think?

I

have read some interes�ng papers recently, covering a wide variety of aquaculture concerns. They include The Future of Food from the Sea

by Christopher Costello et al, published in Nature, and Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Sustainable Seafood Made in Europe by Katrin Zander and Yvonne Feucht, published in the Journal of Interna�onal Food & Agribusiness Marke�ng.

I was also engaged by a presenta�on from Sofia Franco of SAMS, at a Seafish Aquaculture Common Issues Group webinar, which explored consumers’ perceived issues and concerns about aquaculture.

The take-home messages from my research were not new, but it was useful to gather them together. We all acknowledge that global demand for food is increasing, and that there are serious ques�ons over our ability to increase supply in a sustainable manner by 2050. But how will this be achieved?

The Future of Food from the Sea explains that currently, the ocean represents just 17% of edible meat produc�on, and ques�ons just how much food we can expect it to support in future.

The paper looks at wild fisheries and at finfish and bivalve mariculture, and sets out the results of work to es�mate sustainable supply curves that account for ecological, economic, regulatory and technological constraints.

These are overlaid with demand scenarios to es�mate future seafood produc�on.

The resul�ng curve shows that edible food from the sea could increase by 21–44 million tonnes by 2050, which is a 36–74% increase on current yields. It also represents 12–25% of the es�mated increase in all meat that

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Shellfish.indd 26

Below: Sco�sh oysters Opposite: A mussels farm

will be needed to feed a popula�on of 9.8 billion by 2050.

Mariculture is expected to be responsible for most of the increased produc�on poten�al and it is suggested that bivalves may contribute substan�ally to food security, by providing rela�vely low-cost, accessible food. The authors found that if all seafood was perfectly subs�tutable, then bivalves could contribute 43% and 34% of aqua�c food under future and extreme demand scenarios, respec�vely.

However, they warn that the ability for any fisheries or mariculture produc�on poten�al to be realized sustainably, will depend on an interac�on of complex factors such as policy reforms, technological innova�on and the extent of future shi�s in demand. It also needs governments to be fully suppor�ve.

The Sco�sh government has recognised the need to increase produc�on of seafood, and its 2030 strategy aims to double the economic contribu�on of the sector from £1.8 billion in 2016, to £3.6 billion by 2030. As well as providing addi�onal domes�c nutri�on and export revenue, it will also increase the number of jobs available in rural communi�es to 18,000.

The strategy forecasts an increase in salmon produc�on to about 350,000 tonnes per year by 2030 and a rise in Sco�sh shellfish produc�on - mostly mussels- from around 8,000 tonnes per year to 21,000 tonnes.

A new English aquaculture strategy, commissioned by Seafood 2040, is currently in the final stages of edi�ng, and will soon be published.

Over the last decade, sustainability has become an increasingly important issue in the seafood sector, with more consumers becoming interested in addi�onal product a�ributes such as eco-friendliness, organic produc�on, and domes�c or European origin.

Consumer a�en�on is also turned to higher animal welfare standards, and this has a spill-over effect into fish farming and fish welfare.

Another trend is for consumers to prefer local

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:22:37

Present and future seafood

Edible “ food from the sea could increase by 21-44 million tonnes by 2050

”

or domes�c products over imports. However, the paper on Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Sustainable Seafood Made in Europe, found that European seafood produc�on is stagna�ng, while exports from overseas grow. One reason for this is the compe��ve advantage of foreign producers resul�ng from lower labour costs, climate advantages, and some�mes lower environmental standards, which all result in lower produc�on costs.

The authors point out that in line with the EU strategy for blue growth, sustainable produc�on is the buzz word for the European seafood sector. Seafood which is produced sustainably, is likely to be more expensive and sold in higher priced market segments. Consumers therefore have to be convinced that European products are worth higher prices. The paper cites various pieces of research which show that the promo�on of sustainability in seafood offers poten�al for product differen�a�on, higher premiums and market shares, and iden�fies a par�cular consumer segment which is willing to pay higher prices for addi�onal ethical values of seafood products.

It also shows up some surprising trends across eight countries. For example, Germany outranked all other countries, in terms of a willingness to pay a higher price for seafood that is produced with higher welfare standards, is sustainably sourced, and has organic status. Italians expressed the greatest preference for purchasing seafood caught by local coastal fisheries, while Spanish and Bri�sh consumers ranked higher welfare standards at the top. Finland, France, Ireland and Poland all cited organic produc�on as the biggest influence in their willingness to pay more for seafood.

The overall results of the survey revealed that in all eight countries, par�cipants had a posi�ve a�tude toward sustainability in aquaculture and fisheries. Protec�on of endangered species, no pollu�on, and an absence of drugs and hormones were the most important issues from the consumer perspec�ve.

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Shellfish.indd 27

The majority of consumers stated a preference for seafood from local, domes�c or European produc�on, although local produc�on ac�vated an addi�onal willingness to pay, whereas European produc�on had a much smaller effect. Other sustainability a�ributes resulted in even higher addi�onal willingness to pay amongst consumers, which indicates that sustainable produc�on from Europe might be a promising marke�ng approach in European seafood markets.

Sophia Franco’s presenta�on showed that consumers had some awareness of produc�on methods and key issues related to finfish farming, but a cri�cal lack of awareness or familiarity about shellfish farming.

Issues of concern over fish farming related to health and welfare, par�cularly fish being vulnerable to pain and disease, and being crowded into cages, which constrains their behavioural freedom. Local environmental impacts related to the benthos and water quality and the ecological impact on wild stocks from disease and escapees, were also highlighted as a concern.

The socio economic impacts were mostly looked upon favourably, apart from inter-sector compe��on for water space, and a reliance on imports of eg shrimp, and the ethical implica�ons of producing abroad.

The lack of awareness about shellfish farming found consumers stating they had few concerns, that shellfish are not sen�ent, and that the industry has a low environmental impact. However, the ecological impact of growing exo�c species was brought up as an issue, presumably from a ‘woke’ consumer.

More alarming were some of the misconcep�ons uncovered, such as fish farming being the main source of plas�c pollu�on, and fish farmers not adhering to welfare standards or environmental regula�ons, for example, ‘They just leave big nets in the sea for the whales to eat.’

Other misconcep�ons included the idea that farmed fish cannot be organic, that farmed salmon is ac�vely injected with dye, and that farmed fish contains ar�ficial preserva�ves or is of lower quality than wild.

Franco concluded that ambivalence and the linked lack of awareness, familiarity, relatability, knowledge and understanding of produc�on process, products and their prepara�on, remain a barrier to trust in the aquaculture sector and its products. She suggested that this should be addressed by meaningful ac�ons and ac�ve communica�on. FF

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14/09/2020 15:22:59

Covid-19

The

Omega Factor

How salmon is helping scientists in the fight against covid

BY SANDY NEILL

I

n many ways salmon is helping scien�sts make breakthroughs in the fight against coronavirus. Scien�sts are inves�ga�ng how omega 3, a fish oil found in salmon, could be used to treat Covid-19; how the virus can live on chilled and frozen salmon for three weeks and pose a risk for new outbreaks; and how salmon fishermen landed a vital clue on immunity. Who knew immunology research on fishing boats could be so informa�ve?

When the factory trawler FV American Dynasty, owned by American Seafoods, set sail from Sea�le in May, not one of its 122 crew on board could have known they would aid scien�sts in the fight against the deadly coronavirus epidemic.

Before the ship le�, each crewmember was screened, both for live infec�on and an�bodies to the new coronavirus called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and the disease associated with its infec�on discovered in 2019, called Covid-19.

None of the crew tested posi�ve for the virus, but six tested posi�ve for an�bodies that bind to it. Three of those six had high levels of neutralizing an�bodies, which block the virus from entering human cells, indicating that they were once infected, and had recovered.

Eighteen days into the MV American Dynasty’s voyage, the trawler was forced to return to shore a�er one crew member fell ill and required hospitaliza�on. The rest of the crew was monitored for the next 50 days, and 104 were confirmed to be infected. Intriguingly, none of the three people with neutralizing an�bodies reported any symptoms or became infected. Those three salmon fishermen, who were spared Covid-19 during the outbreak that infected 85 per cent of the people on their boat, may provide the first direct evidence that an�bodies can confer immunity from Covid-19.

This is ‘hopeful news’, wrote researcher Dr. Alex Greninger, assistant director of the University of Washington Medicine Clinical Virology Laboratory. ‘It’s a strong indica�on that the presence of neutralizing an�bod-

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Sandy neil feature.indd 28

ies is associated with protec�on from the virus,’ Greninger said in the not yet peer-reviewed report posted on MedRxiv.

‘While this is a small study, it offers a remarkable, real-life, human experiment,’ Danny Altmann, professor of immunology at Imperial College London, wrote in a commentary.

‘Who knew immunology research on fishing boats could be so informa�ve?’

More promising studies have been made into how a fish oil derived from salmon, omega 3, could help the body’s immune system fight the coronavirus. At the start of the epidemic in March, omega-3 businesses were warned about making immunity claims, but now scien�sts are busily inves�ga�ng the poten�al links.

The human body can make most of the types of fats it needs from other fats or raw materials – except for omega-3 fats, an essen�al family of long chain polyunsaturated fa�y acids, which the body must get from food.

Omega-3 fats are an integral part of cell membranes, and provide the star�ng point for making hormones that regulate blood clo�ng, the contrac�on and relaxa�on of artery walls, and inflamma�on.

One of the three main omega-3s, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), is found in vegetable oils and nuts, flax seeds and flaxseed oil, leafy vegetables, and some animal fat, especially in grass-fed animals. Oily fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, are the best source of the other two omega-3 fa�y acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), some�mes called marine omega-3s.

According to Harvard University’s School of Public Health, omega-3 fats have been shown to help prevent heart disease and stroke, may help control lupus, eczema, and rheumatoid arthri�s, and may play protec�ve roles in cancer and other condi�ons.

As the epidemic grew, claims emerged that consuming omega-3 rich products could boost

Above: Dr. Alex Greninger Middle: Professor Danny

Altmann

Bottom: Norman Hord Left: The FV American

Dynasty

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:25:02

The Omega Factor

ty (OSU) found excess amounts of omega-3 fa�y acids can alter immune func�on some�mes in ways that may lead to a dysfunc�onal immune response to a viral or bacterial infec�on. immunity against the The researchers pointed out that coronavirus. In response, the amounts of fish oil used in most the Global Organiza�on for EPA studies are typically above what one and DHA (GOED), which represents could consume from foods or usual dosage of a the worldwide EPA and DHA omega-3 dietary supplement.

However, an increasing amount industry, warned that science did not support of products, such as eggs, bread, bu�ers, oils and orange juice, are being these claims. ‘for�fied’ with omega-3s. This for�fied food, coupled with fish oil supple‘Given the context of a viral outbreak, the scien�fic literature on viral immunity – not gen- ment use, increases the poten�al for consuming these high levels, said Norman Hord, associate professor in OSU’s College of Public Health and eral immunity – is what is relevant’, the trade Human Sciences. body said. Studies on the subject, it added, ‘Overall, we support the dietary recommenda�ons from the American had only been conducted on diseased, rather Heart Associa�on to eat fish, par�cularly fa�y fish like salmon, mackerel, than healthy popula�ons, making it difficult to lake trout or sardines, at least two �mes a week,’ Hord said. ‘Our main substan�ate any claim.

GOED concluded ‘there is an insufficient body of concern here is the hyper-supplemented individual, who may be taking scien�fic literature to connect EPA/DHA to bene- high-dose omega-3 supplements and ea�ng four to five omega-3-enriched foods per day. This could poten�ally get someone to an excessive fits of either posi�ve general or viral immunity amount.’ outcomes in a healthy popula�on.’

As the coronavirus spread worldwide, claiming 900,000 lives and GOED also pointed out the US Food and Drug disrup�ng economies, governments spurred on pharmaceu�cal giants Administra�on and Federal Trade Commission to develop a vaccine and treatments. Many scien�sts are now taking a were ‘closely watching for misleading product claims around Covid-19 preven�on or treatment closer look into omega 3. More than a dozen fish oil-based COVID-19 and even a general “immunity” claim on a product could be considered an implied claim about Covid-19 given the current environment.’

A link between omega 3 and healthy immune func�on has long been a subject of scien�fic debate. Fish oil rich in DHA and EPA is widely believed to help prevent disease by reducing inflamma�on, but scien�sts were not en�rely sure about its immune enhancing effects.

One report, from Michigan State University in the April 2013 issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology, showed DHA-rich fish oil enhances B cell ac�vity, a white blood cell. The discovery showed fish oil does not necessarily reduce the overall immune response to lower inflamma�on, possibly opening the doors for the use of fish oil among those with compromised immune systems.

However, in the same journal a few months later, researchers at Oregon State Universi-

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Sandy neil feature.indd 29

Who knew “immunology

research on fishing boats could be so informa�ve?

”

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14/09/2020 15:25:22

Covid-19

Top: Sardine Above: Trout Right: Mackerel Opposite clockwise from top right: Frozen salmon;

Jonathan Ball; Calum Semple; Salmon on cu�ng board

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Sandy neil feature.indd 30

treatments are racing toward produc�on, and several companies have trials underway.

Scien�sts at the University of Sao Paolo in Brazil published a paper in this August’s Free Radical Biology and Medicine �tled ‘Poten�al benefits and risks of omega-3 fa�y acids supplementa�on to pa�ents with COVID-19’. The study argues omega-3 can decrease inflamma�on in COVID-19 pa�ents, and therefore clinical studies must consider omega-3 fa�y acids as a co-therapy for the disease.

‘Studies have shown that infec�on, excessive coagula�on, cytokine storm, leukopenia, lymphopenia, hypoxemia and oxida�ve stress have also been observed in cri�cally ill SARS-CoV-2 pa�ents in addi�on to the onset symptoms,’ it explains.

‘There are s�ll no approved drugs or vaccines. Dietary supplements could possibly improve the pa�ent’s recovery.

‘Omega-3 fa�y acids, specifically EPA and DHA present an an�-inflammatory effect that could ameliorate some pa�ents need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission.

‘Although the inflammatory resolu�on improved by EPA and DHA could contribute to the recovery of pa�ents infected with SARS-CoV-2, omega-3 fa�y acids supplementa�on cannot be recommended before randomized and controlled trials are carried out.’

The Global Organiza�on for EPA and DHA said in August it is aware of 14 clinical trials underway studying the use of EPA and DHA oils. For example, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences in Iran is examining whether omega-3 supplementa�on improves inflammatory and biochemical markers on cri�cally ill COVID-19 pa�ents. Bahia State University is studying the effects of a daily supplement with L-arginine, nucleo�des and omega-3s on the inflammatory response of COVID-19 pa�ents, while scien�sts at Sweden’s Karolinska University Hospital are looking into whether supplementa�on with intravenous fish oil emulsion Omegaven can resolve inflammatory storms in COVID-19 pa�ents.

Tests by Harvard University, the Cardiovascular Ins�tute of Rosario, and Argen�na’s La�n American Clinical Studies are examining whether eight grams daily of EPA will reduce the risk of COVID-19 by 30 per cent in 1,500 Argen�ne healthcare workers under the PREPARE-IT trial program.

In a study conducted by KD Pharma and SLA Pharma, pills of a fish oil-based formula�on are being given to pa�ents that have contracted coronavirus, with the aim of minimizing symptoms to reduce the risk of complica�ons progressing to serious outcomes such as the need for ar�ficial ven�la�on. Results of clinical trials may be available by the end of September.

Another scien�fic study published in August, into the longevity of

coronavirus on chilled and frozen salmon, poses far-reaching implica�ons for salmon processors and exports.

The novel coronavirus is primarily spread through infec�ous droplets or aerosols emi�ed from an infected person’s mouth and nose, and are then breathed in by another person. Early on in the pandemic, fomite exposure (touching a recently contaminated surface then your mouth, eyes, or nose) was also thought to be an important route of transmission.

A study in the Lancet in April, from the University of Hong Kong, found that while infec�ous coronavirus could be detected days on some surfaces – par�cularly on smooth surfaces like plas�c and stainless steel – several days a�er being introduced, it remained unclear whether a person could actually be infected by touching that surface.

The risk of catching covid-19 through fomites is considered rela�vely low, compared to close contact with infected people. The World Health Organiza�on (WHO) said there’s no evidence of food having been a source of infec�on during the pandemic, either through ea�ng or touching contaminated food. However, it noted studies showed the virus can survive for up to 72 hours on plas�c, and surface or fomite (contaminated surface) transmission is ‘likely’.

Then in August, a�er coronavirus outbreaks occurred in areas otherwise virus-free for some months, researchers sought an explana�on.

A puzzling new cluster of coronavirus cases resurfaced in New Zealand, a�er more than 100

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The Omega Factor

days/3 months free of local transmission.

Several members of a household in Auckland, with no history of overseas travel, had tested posi�ve. Some of the infected cluster worked at an Auckland refrigerated food facility, leading to fears the virus could have survived from abroad on chilled or frozen food.

Earlier in August, Chinese officials in the city of Yantai announced viral gene�c material had been found on the outer packaging of frozen seafood shipped from Ecuador. Officials sealed off the goods and those who handled the seafood were placed under quaran�ne and tested nega�ve.

Days later, virus-infected chicken wings made headlines in the Chinese city of Shenzhen near Hong Kong, when a batch of frozen chicken wings exported from Brazil to China tested posi�ve for SARS- CoV-2 gene�c material, though not live virus capable of replica�on.

Finding gene�c material on the surface of food is not the same as finding live replica�ng virus. Viruses, unlike bacteria, cannot survive on their own without a live host. Besides, having enough virus is even more crucial to the risk of infec�on. As a result, the poten�al for infec�vity — possessing a high enough viral load which is then capable of transmission to a person — a�er ea�ng the par�cular food is quite remote.

Thus far, there is no need to be overly concerned, as health officials in New Zealand, Shenzen or Yantai have yet to find any credible threat

Overall we “ support the dietary

recommenda�ons from the AHA to eat fish at least two �mes per week

”

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Sandy neil feature.indd 31

from these food-borne sources.

Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of No�ngham, said: ‘The most likely explana�on in truth is always that it has come in from an infected person, because firstly the virus can’t survive for long periods of �me on surfaces and also because you need a reasonable level of contamina�on for there to be an efficient survival and transfer of the virus for somebody handling it, and for them to get infected.’

In June, China had also said a new outbreak in Beijing was linked to traces found on a chopping board used by an imported salmon vendor.

‘The salmon in China – few of us really believe that,’ said Professor Ball.

‘But in theory, there is nothing to stop somebody heavily contamina�ng a surface and for that surface to poten�ally spread the virus if it travels. So you can never rule it out.’

Prof. Ball said it was true that cold temperatures – as in the refrigerated freight in New Zealand and frozen fish in China – might help the virus survive. Calum Semple, professor of child health and outbreak medicine at the University of Liverpool, added: ‘If I wanted to preserve a virus, I would put it in a cold, dark environment or a cool environment that doesn’t have any ultraviolet light – essen�ally a fridge.’

Cold temperatures have been blamed for outbreaks at meat processing plants around the world earlier this year, including in the UK and Germany. Other factors also made the factories perfect incubators for the virus, including prolonged close contact between workers, poor ven�la�on, crowding, and shou�ng.

Professor Ball said that if the new cases in New Zealand and China are confirmed to be linked to surface transmission, it could lead to greater checks of disinfec�on measures at ports to help stop the spread. However he cau�oned it would s�ll be about rela�ve risk as to whether that was worth doing, considering that person-to-person transmission was s�ll the leading cause of infec�on.

‘If this is a one-in-a-billion chance episode, it is probably not worth worrying about too much,’ he said. ‘It is the same with all of these things – everything is possible but it is about how possible it is.

And then we have to adopt behaviours to take into account that rela�ve risk.’

As scien�sts con�nue to explore the possibility that contaminated food could be the source of these new outbreaks, researchers from Singapore and Ireland found SARS-CoV-2 could live up to three weeks on frozen meat and fish.

‘An explana�on is required for the re-emergence of Covid-19 outbreaks in regions with apparent local eradica�on,’ began the paper published on BioRxiv in August . ‘It is necessary to understand the risk of an item becoming contaminated and remaining so at the �me of export,

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Covid-19

and of the virus surviving the transport and storage condi�ons.’

The team conducted a rela�vely simple experiment in the lab. They inoculated 500 �ny individual cubes of salmon, chicken and pork from supermarkets in Singapore with a he�y dose of SARS-CoV-2 viral par�cles.

The fish and meat were stored at three different temperatures (4˚C/39˚F, -20˚C/-4˚F and -80˚C/-112˚F), simula�ng those in which food is transported between countries: 4˚C, which is standard refrigera�on temperature, and -20˚C (-4˚F), which is standard freezing temperature.

A�er the meat was thawed at various �me points (1, 2, 5, 7, 14 and 21 days post inocula�on), the researchers determined that the amount of infec�ous virus — live virus capable of reproducing — remained the same whether the temperature was 4˚C, -20˚C or -80˚C. The amount of infec�ous virus remained the same at three weeks in both refrigerated (4˚C) and frozen samples (-20˚C and -80˚C).

‘When adding SARS-CoV-2 to chicken, salmon, and pork pieces there was no decline in infec�ous virus a�er 21 days at 4°C (standard refrigera�on) and –20°C (standard freezing),’ the study authors wrote.

‘Our laboratory work has shown that SARS-CoV-2 can survive the �me and temperatures associated with transporta�on and storage condi�ons associated with interna�onal food trade.’

They concluded that the virus remained capable of infec�ng people in both the refrigerated and frozen food during that �me as well, if a person were to handle the meat and then touch their mouth or nose.

‘Our findings, coupled with the reports from China of SARS-CoV-2 being detected on imported frozen chicken and frozen shrimp packaging material, should alert food safety competent authori�es and the food industry of a ‘new normal’ environment where this virus is posing a non-tradi�onal food safety risk.

‘Importa�on of contaminated food and food packaging is a feasible source for such outbreaks and a source of clusters within exis�ng outbreaks.

‘With a significant burden of virus present in infected workers and the environment, then contamina�on of meat with SARS-CoV-2 is possible

32

Sandy neil feature.indd 32

“

during butchering and processing.

‘While it can be confidently argued that transmission via contaminated food is not a major infec�on route, the poten�al for movement of contaminated items to a region with no Covid-19 and ini�ate an outbreak is an important hypothesis.

‘An infected food handler has the poten�al to become an index case of a new outbreak. The interna�onal food market is massive and even a

An explana�on is required for the reemergence of Covid-19 outbreaks in regions with apparent local eradica�on

”

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The Omega Factor very unlikely event could be expected to occur from �me to �me.’

Prof James Wood, head of the Veterinary Medicine department at the University of Cambridge, said: ‘The authors discuss, very sensibly, how it is important that factory workers must be incen�vised not to go to work when symptoma�c or in contact with Covid-19 cases.’

It’s important to note that preprint research like this hasn’t gone through the tradi�onal peer-review process, and the authors acknowledge the results don’t suggest lots of people are ge�ng covid-19 from touching frozen food.

WHO officials have emphasised there’s no need to fear the possibility of contrac�ng the virus from food or food packaging. ‘People should not fear food, or food packaging or processing or delivery of food,’ Mike Ryan, the execu�ve director of the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, said. But even a rare transmission event could spell trouble for containing the virus, if the poten�al for it happens o�en enough.

Certainly food processing factories have been hotspots for covid-19 outbreaks, in part because of their working condi�ons and

because many of the people employed there live in communi�es where exposure to the virus is more common already. So the poten�al for food workers to become infected and then contaminate food products is certainly real. Because food is shipped interna�onally, the possibility of contaminated food reaching people in more isolated countries is also real.

This theore�cal transmission risk of covid-19 will need to be further studied before we can be sure it exists. If it does, though, it highlights the need to keep vulnerable food workers as safe as possible from the virus.

For consumers, the authors wrote, the same precau�ons that we should already be taking might apply even more now: wash your hands a�er touching uncooked food and thoroughly cook everything you eat. FF

Above: Processing fish Left: Mike Ryan Opposite: Chinese open kitchen; frozen shrimp

Closed cages for post smolt, harvesting and broodstock

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14/09/2020 15:27:45

Comment

BY DR MARTIN JAFFA

In the DNA The complicated genetic relationship between wild and farmed salmon

I

t might be surprising to some that we humans share 99% of our DNA with our closest rela�ons, the chimpanzee. Humans and chimps parted company between 5 and 6 million years ago. The first farmed salmon smolts were put to sea in Scotland in 1967.

That is fi�y-three years ago. The original stock was taken from local rivers several �mes over the years. The sugges�on that farmed salmon are now dis�nct from the wild salmon they were taken from is simply nonsense. Farmed salmon are s�ll very much Atlan�c salmon. Of course, if someone was to look hard enough, there are differences in some of the gene�c code, just as my gene�c material is slightly different from my parents and my grandparents.

It doesn’t fundamentally change who I am.

Salmon gene�cs have been in the news again following storm damage to the pens of a west coast salmon farm and the release of some of the stock into the open sea. One cri�c called this an environmental disaster comparable to an oil tanker running aground; clearly from someone who has no memory of the Braer or the Exxon Valdez.

The narra�ve that accompanies this claim is that the fish, now unconstrained by the nets of the pens, will immediately head for the nearest river where it will seek out one of the few remaining wild salmon; breed with it passing on its weak, inferior farmed genes and the subsequent fish will be disadvantaged leading to the total ex�nc�on of the stock.

The inference is that those wild salmon that s�ll exist in west coast rivers and have not yet been ravaged by the impacts of salmon farming, are of pure wild salmon stock that

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Martin Jaffa.indd 34

has remained unchanged since the last ice age. In fact, the wild salmon narra�ve is more complicated than that with sugges�ons that the stock in every river is unique and has been moulded over years of adap�on. It is also suggested that the larger rivers have mul�ple unique stocks that do not interbreed.

Unfortunately, a £1 million project back in 2012 – FASMOP – was unable to find such differences in several different river systems. At the �me, they blamed the methodology but why that was not tested properly in advance remains unclear.

The reality is that the distribu�on of wild salmon is misunderstood.

Without something driving distribu�on, all returning salmon would head up the first river they encountered to breed. Why swim all the way down to the Tweed when there is a perfectly good river at Thurso?

The answer is that it would be disadvantageous to wild salmon if they all tried to breed in the same place. They have thus spread across the whole of the UK finding a variety of different rivers in which to breed.

However, this does not mean this distribu�on is gene�cally driven. Spa�al loca�on and river chemical makeup can all help salmon find their way back to their natal river. For example, we as humans do not rely on our gene�c makeup to help us find our way home should we move to a new house, even to a different country. The point about salmon is that it doesn’t ma�er if some fish don’t make it back to the exact river, in fact it is a bonus in that it allows gene�c mixing to strengthen the overall stock.

This straying is not the only way that the gene�c mix changes. Over the last couple of centuries, especially, the salmon gene pool has been compromised by over-exploita�on. We have all seen pictures of Victorian gentlemen standing by a haul of dozens of salmon, especially large ones. The constant erosion of the gene pool does inevitably impact the gene�c makeup of the fish. There have been several reports recently

is that the distribu�on of “Thewildreality salmon is misunderstood ” www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:29:00

In the DNA

from other countries about the way that salmon have shrunk in size over several decades. This is because the diversity of the stock has been lost through exploitation which could occur at sea, by rods or by poaching. The loss of salmon in large numbers eventually does impact the genetics, something known as genetic drift.

In addition, it is well-known that the Victorians regularly restocked rivers with fish from other rivers and other areas. More recently, it is also known that when hatcheries belonging to farming companies began to appear, some river owners knocked on the door to ask if they could buy young fish to restock their beats without any regard to their origin.

Whilst restocking used to be relatively commonplace, current thought, backed by ‘research’ is that any attempt to grow fish in an artificial environment, whether it be from farmed or wild parentage, leads to domes-

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Martin Jaffa.indd 35

tication and the inability of the fish to survive in the wild. This is especially true of farmed fish which are considered to be weak and flabby. It is therefore a miracle that these fish can also charge up rivers and force their genes onto wild fish. In practice, any disadvantageous genes would be bred out in subsequent generations as Above: Wild Scottish salmon dictated by Darwinian Law. Sadly, the angling fraternity blame salmon farming for the decline of wild fish stocks so any excuse to boost their narrative about these supposedly weak and unfit fish is readily pounced upon. FF

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14/09/2020 15:29:19

Aquaculture Stewardship Council – Report

Good Stewardship ASC report identifies clear improvements at salmon and shrimp farms

BY VINCE MCDONAGH

T

he Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is repor�ng that it has iden�fied clear improvement in the environmental performance of salmon farms in Norway, Canada and Chile and with shrimp farms in Vietnam.

The findings are published in the ASC’s new Monitoring and Evalua�on (M&E) report, demonstra�ng for the �me the impact of cer�fied responsible aquaculture.

The report is a product of ASC’s measurable performance requirements, commitment to transparency, and its requirements that farms make public their performance on more than 100 indicators.

The M&E report uses thousands of data points from hundreds of cer�fied farms to analyse trends in their performance – reinforced with case studies illustra�ng social and environmental gains, and market access achieved by ASC farms.

Norway, Canada and Chile are the three countries with the highest percentage of ASC salmon farms and they have demonstrated a clear trend of improving performance, says the report.

This may in part be due to the rela�ve maturity and consolida�on of the global salmon sector, with fewer companies opera�ng many farms, o�en in more than one country or region, enabling greater consistency in prac�ces.

The ASC says the lessons learnt during the cer�fica�on of a company’s first few sites can be applied to those sites that apply for cer�fica�on at a later date.

Among the report’s other findings, it reveals that ASC shrimp farms have increased by 50 per cent their ongoing compliance to the environmental performance requirements between 2014 and 2018.

They also found clear evidence that cer�fied farms are learning to

36

Vince - ASC.indd 36

work together, and with their feed suppliers, to reduce their reliance on wild-caught fish in the feed they use, helping to reduce the pressure on wild fishery stocks.

ASC standards also include requirements for social responsibility such as trea�ng staff and local communi�es fairly, and the report has revealed the importance of this, with demonstrated improvements in working hours and over�me across all species and countries looked at, especially across shrimp farms in Vietnam, Ecuador and Honduras, and salmon farms in Chile.

The report also found that farm performance improves the longer it is in the ASC programme, and producers with more than one farm will share the learnings about responsible performance from their cer�fied to their non-cer�fied farms.

Jill Swasey, Head of Monitoring and Evalua�on at ASC, said: ‘Repor�ng on our impact is a key part of the ASC mission, and this report demonstrates the value of transparency in a cer�fica�on programme.

‘ASC cer�fied farms must go above and beyond when it comes to publicising their performance data. We can use that to iden�fy trends

Above: An Indian shrimp farm Opposite - top: Tiger shrimp below: Salmon farm in Chile

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Good Stewardship

and further adapt the ASC standards, and the wider industry can use it to iden�fy challenges and opportuni�es for improvement.’

Other findings include:• Shrimp farms in India and Vietnam have improved how they monitor their energy use and greenhouse gas emissions as a result of cer�fica�on • Indian shrimp farms have shown a marked improvement in community rela�ons – and this is due to be�er communica�ng with local communi�es and sharing conflict resolu�on policies • Nearly 18,000 products were able to carry the ASC logo around the world through 2019, a 380% increase in five years • Over 1,100 farms cer�fied (across nine standards) in 42 countries producing nearly two million tons of seafood by the end of 2019 • Almost 13,000 people are working on ASC cer�fied farms around the world, where they are protected by the ASC’s social requirements

ng “Repor� on our

impact is a key part of the ASC mission, and this report demonstrates the value of transparency in a cer�fica�on programme

The report has looked in more detail at a number of case studies, illustra�ng various social and environmental improvements around the world, including a Thai shrimp farm that has made key improvements to working condi�ons, and a Japanese coopera�ve which bounced back from the 2011 tsunami to improve their environmental and social prac�ces and become ASC cer�fied.

Another case study highlights the importance of ASC’s market-driven approach to improvement in its partnership with Ikea. Ikea has commi�ed to only serving farmed salmon that is ASC cer�fied, helping to drive up market demand for cer�fied seafood and reward responsible farmers.

The ASC said it will con�nue to evolve its Monitoring and Evalua�on programme to learn from results and deliver impacts in a transparent and accessible way more regularly for stakeholders.

Meanwhile, the ASC has translated its shrimp. Tilapia and tropical marine finfish standards and related guidance documents into Indonesian to help more farmers in the country work towards more responsible prac�ces.

Indonesia is the world’s second largest producer of farmed fish, which the ASC says makes it a vital country for improving aquaculture prac�ces.

As well as the full standards, audit manuals and cer�fica�on guides for single site and group cer�fica�on have been translated into the language, with further materials and remote training sessions to follow.

The ASC maintains these transla�ons make it’s programme more accessible, giving more farmers the opportunity to demonstrate they are opera�ng in a responsible way, and if so, enjoy the benefits of ASC cer�fica�on.

Tilapia and shrimp are among the most produced species in Indonesia, with around a million tons of �lapia and half a million tons of shrimp produced in 2015 according to official es�mates.

The transla�ons and training materials have been funded by The Walton Founda�on, as part of a two-year $500,000 project operated by ASC and FairTrade USA to drive improvements in the aquaculture sector of Indonesia.

As a global programme, ASC says it is always working to make cer�fica�on more accessible around the world. A similar project in 2018 translated the ASC Shrimp and Pangasius Standards into Vietnamese. FF

”

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37

14/09/2020 15:30:53

Interview – Atholl Duncan

A passion for

salmon

SSPO Chair Atholl Duncan says his people have a real love for their work

BY DAVE EDLER

T

his month I caught up with the Chair of the Sco�sh Salmon Producers Organisa�on (SSPO), Atholl Duncan’, for what was essen�ally a ‘state of the union’ type interview where we discussed all of the issues per�nent to the industry right now.

I started by asking him how the search for a new Chief Execu�ve was going, following the recent departure of Julie Hesketh-Laird, and it sounds as if an announcement might not be far off: ‘We’re ge�ng quite close. We’ve been greatly encouraged by the quality of the people that we’ve been speaking to. Lots of ‘Zoom’ calls have taken place, and I think I can say that we’re almost there’.

Speaking about Hesketh-Laird’s departure, Duncan said: ‘Julie has done a great job inside the organisa�on and we wish her well. She has decided that she wants to do other things but she has taken the SSPO forward and le� a really good pla�orm for whoever comes in as CEO to really build on the ambi�on that we have for the sector and also for the SSPO as the trade body’.

We next went on to discuss the effects of the pandemic on the industry, star�ng with the immediate effects before moving on to longer term issues: ‘In the short term I think our first priority was really the safety of our people and to ensure that they could con�nue the produc�on of salmon in a safe way. That had to be our number one priority. Then, following on from that, we obviously wanted to make sure that the supermarket shelves of the UK remained stocked with food and stocked with good quality Sco�sh salmon. A huge amount of work went in just to keep the supply chain flowing.

‘The interna�onal markets closed down, and clearly that had huge implica�ons, and s�ll has, for the farmers. However the sector, I think, responded admirably. Fergus Ewing, the government minister, described those working in the sector as the ‘hidden heroes’ and he was certainly right.

‘I think we also saw, amongst the leadership of the sector, that there was a great coming together. I think that quite o�en in a crisis this happens. I was very grateful and very pleased with the levels of support that we got from so many people right across the sector who did great work in what was the most difficult of circumstances. We were on calls

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P38-41 Atholl Duncan Int.indd 38

as an organisa�on every week during the early phase of the pandemic with both Fergus Ewing and the industry leaders – short, sharp calls to address the issues of the day. I’d like to thank the government, and Fergus in par�cular, for ensuring that the changes were made that needed to be made to help the sector.

‘There were some par�cular areas that we worked on. Obviously there were regulatory changes we secured working with SEPA, such as flexibility on biomass and medicines, which con�nues to this day. We also worked with the government on a freezing and storage scheme.

‘There have of course been setbacks. We had the ‘China incident’ just as things were ge�ng going which caused China (as a market) to close down again. They claimed that covid had been found on some salmon that had come from Europe. We never scien�fically believed that that had been the case, but nevertheless it had the effect of closing the market down again. So as a result we’ve been able to secure £150,000 from the Sco�sh government to try and get that marke�ng going again’.

Duncan had clearly been broadly happy with the response from the Sco�sh government but I asked him if he thought there was anything else they could do to help the industry further: ‘I think what covid does for every industry is that it exposes so much, and so you look

Above: Atholl Duncan Opposite: Salmon fillets, Checking the salmon

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A passion for salmon

at ways that you can ‘reset’ the industry for the future. We had actually been working on a ‘new vision’ for the sector which we are going to be launching very soon, and as part of that there was a report done by Benny Higgins, who was asked by the government to report on the economic recovery post covid and so we did a lot of work with him. We want salmon to be a huge part of that recovery because we think that there is a big opportunity for growing the salmon sector. In the various responses to that

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P38-41 Atholl Duncan Int.indd 39

report it was highlighted that we need to see regulatory change.

‘We need to see a regulatory environment that, as well as protecting the marine environment, still allows the sector to grow. There has been an effective ‘moratorium’ on the industry for a while and we need to solve that. We are getting a good response so far.

‘Post covid there is no doubt that salmon is an economic success story and it needs to be put much more firmly at the heart of the overall Scottish economic strategy.’

I asked Duncan, bearing in mind that he said covid had exposed so much within the industry, what he thought the SSPO could take forward from that to help make the sector better in the future: ‘I think most people would agree that we need to tell our story better.

And that we need to tell it to a much wider audience. During the pandemic we’ve been talking to people at the heart of both the Scottish and UK governments and the story that we have got to tell is a great story. We are a great Scottish brand that is known worldwide, we are a great economic success story for Scotland and as we go into a period of recession and high unemployment we are the people who can, if the regulatory environment is right, create more jobs in the highland and island communities of Scotland, and no one else is in a position to be able to do that.

‘We’ve always had great support from Fergus but I think now a wider group across government is starting to understand what we bring to the table. We do spend a lot of our time countering what we would see as unfair criticism of the sector, maybe trying to justify ourselves sometimes in the light of that criticism and I think that covid tells us that we could do more about telling the positive story instead. We have one of the healthiest foods around, we have the potential job creation I mentioned earlier in highland and island communities, we make a big

In the “ short term

I think our first priority was really the safety of our people

”

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14/09/2020 15:32:23

Interview – Atholl Duncan

contribution to the public purse through taxation of our great global brand. I think we need, as a country, to realise what a great success story Scottish salmon is. We want to be world leaders in farming a healthy food in a responsible and sustainable way. What’s not to like about that?’.

Before moving on to other issues, Duncan had this message on behalf of the SSPO to all those who have been keeping the wheels turning in the sector during the pandemic: ‘Without a doubt they are the ‘hidden heroes’ of the crisis and on behalf of the leadership of the Scottish salmon sector I would like to thank every person in every role in the sector and in the supply chain who has helped keep our industry going and who has helped keep the supermarket shelves of the UK stocked with healthy, fine Scottish salmon. I applaud their efforts and our responsibility as leaders of the sector is to get better outcomes for them as we go forward and the country should be proud of what they have done’.

Next I moved on to discussing Brexit, and mentioned the piece elsewhere in this months magazine where his colleague, Hamish Macdonnell, suggests that Brexit has perhaps moved ‘under the radar’ because when faced with two crises the natural reaction is to focus on the more pressing one first, which has clearly been covid. I asked him for his own views on the issue: ‘Well, Brexit on the back of covid has the potential to be a ‘double whammy’ for the industry. So we will be redoubling our efforts over the coming weeks to ensure that we get good outcomes for the salmon sector. You can see even from the news from the past couple of days that we’re still not even sure what kind of a Brexit that we’re going to have.

‘However, two areas of focus for us on Brexit. One is tarrif barriers.

We would hope that if there is to be any tarrif on our product that it would be minimal. We would like it to be zero. There are suggestions that it may be 2%. However, probably more worrying for the sector are the non-tarrif barriers. Such as the logistics. We don’t want to see lorry loads of Scottish salmon queued up at Dover. There are very tight timescales on the distribution of our product, so the SSPO have been

40

P38-41 Atholl Duncan Int.indd 40

working very closely with DEFRA and we have a very good relationship with them, so that we can make sure that there is prioritisation of our salmon lorries going to France.

‘We’re also doing a lot of other work around any bureaucracy that may or may not be pushed upon us because of custom declarations. One area of concern is the export health certificates and how they might be administered. So it’s all ongoing work just now but it’s work that we’re very focussed on on behalf of the sector.’

There will clearly be plenty more to discuss on this issue in the months ahead, but for now I moved on to another issue that has become very prominent of late, that of extreme environmental protestors in general and in particular those targeting the salmon industry and fish farms: ‘The first thing to say here is that we are dealing with a very small number of people.

And I do of course respect their right to hold any views that they wish to hold and to express them in any way that they choose to do that is within the law.

‘My plea to them would be to act responsibly, to not endanger their own lives nor the lives of any of our people on the fish farms, and in this age of social distancing not to do anything that could breach the bio-security measures at any of our sites’.

I asked Duncan more generally how he felt the industry was currently dealing with issues such as disease control and fish escapes: ‘I think that what we intend to do with our

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14/09/2020 15:32:47

A passion for salmon

‘new vision’ for the next decade and beyond is to set ourselves the very highest of environmental and sustainability standards. We will be focussing a lot on medicines and on waste, but don’t forget that we actually have a very good environmental story to tell. But going forward we want to set ourselves some of the highest environmental standards in the world around issues such as renewable energy, packaging and plas�cs as well as the sustainability of our feedstuff. We want to be absolutely world leading in these sustainability areas.

‘Our people are farmers. They don’t want their animals to suffer. They care for the animals that they work with and they also have a great record of innova�ng in the science of fish farming.’

I concluded by invi�ng Duncan to expand on the themes within the SSPO’s ‘new vision’ and what we could expect to see from the industry moving forward: ‘The world is at a crossroads a�er covid.

The Sco�sh and UK economies are also at a crossroads. And as you stand at that crossroads you look at how you can solve some of the existen�al problems that face the world: employment, the sustainability of the planet, tackling inequality, providing safe and healthy food for the world, those are the issues. And the salmon sector sits on the right side of all of these megatrends.

‘So my message is that now is the �me for all of us as leaders in the industry to try and get as many supporters amongst the reasonable people who make the poli�cal, economic and regulatory decisions in Scotland, to get them on our side and I see us doing that gradually as �me goes on.

‘There aren’t a huge number of success stories in Scotland, there aren’t a huge number of winners that are obvious at the moment. But the Sco�sh salmon sector is an obvious winner for Scotland. We have a duty to the people that work in the sector, and to the country, to

push our sector forward in a responsible manner because if we get ten years down the line and the Sco�sh salmon sector has disappeared we will have missed a great opportunity for our rural areas, a great opportunity for our economy and a great opportunity for the environment to produce a low carbon method of farming.

‘The thing that impresses me the most about all the people I work with is their passion. There’s a passion and a love for what they do and they’re doing it for the right reasons. I’ll only be doing this role for a few years but if I can go and see young people coming out of areas like Stornaway and ge�ng jobs in a world leading, sustainable, great global brand then I’ll have done a �ny bit to help. That’ll make me think that I’ve done what I’m charged to do. It’s about the future of these rural areas in Scotland and it’s also about the future of our marine economy but the two of these things can go hand in hand and our people are the ones that feel the strongest that these two things can be mutually achieved’.

Duncan finished by reminding us of the huge financial numbers that the industry brings to Scotland: ’86 million in salaries in these rural areas, that’s a lot of money! The tourism sector may do okay this year with stayca�ons, although the interna�onal market has all but disappeared at the moment, so we are an absolute lifeline to our rural communi�es. So we need to stay interna�onally compe��ve and I do see this and the next six months as a major moment. We get this right in the next six months and we could be looking back in ten years �me at the con�nua�on of the salmon success story. We don’t get things right and we could be looking back at a missed opportunity’.

With the passion displayed by Duncan and his team, there is every reason to be op�mis�c that we will be looking forward to the former rather than the la�er of his two suggested outcomes.. FF

Opposite: Working on a slamon farm. Above: Salmon. Below: A Sco�sh salmon farm

“

I think most people would agree that we need to tell our story be�er

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”

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14/09/2020 15:33:07

Grieg Seafood 1

Grieg Seafood makes 5 new signings

2

3

BY VINCE MCDONAGH

G

RIEG Seafood has taken further steps to strengthen its marketing team by recruiting five new faces from other operations and fish farming companies.

The company says it wants a stronger downstream team so it can position itself from being a largely supplier of salmon to a company that can become an innovation partner for selected customers.

Kathleen Mathisen HR director at Grieg Seafood said: ‘We are going to need forward leaning people who want to build something new’.

It was a few months ago that Grieg, which has significant operations in Shetland, said it planned to build up its own fully integrated sales and marketing organisation in order to best deliver on the company’s business strategy due to get underway early in the New Year.

The five new faces are:1. Carl Johan A. Sandberg who becomes Value Chain Director. He has many years experience in seafood and is currently group quality manager at Ocean Quality.

2. Helene Andrea Gerde Lund who becomes Team Leader Europe. Helene also comes from Ocean Quality and has five years experience in the industry.

3. Anita Wahlvag has been appointed sales and logistics co-ordinator and has worked in similar roles with SalMar for a number of years.

4. Tom-Erik Thorgersen becomes Business Controller Sales and is joining Grieg from Mowi where he has spent the past eight years where he has been working in the management of raw materials and Trade Europe for some of that time.

5. Sindre Ramsevik Kvalheim is to take up the post of senior account manager. He is also moving over from Mowi where he has spent the past six years. FF

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4

5

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:34:10

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14/09/2020 12:11:36

Loch Long Salmon

The long plan Semi-closed farming systems planned by joint venture company

L

och Long Salmon Ltd (LLS) is an aquaculture company that is crea�ng sustainable growth in Scotland’s coastal salmon farming sector. LLS will u�lise semi-closed farming systems that will exclude sea lice, catch most of the organic waste, and improve the health and welfare of the farmed stock.

Loch Long Salmon is a joint venture salmon farming company established by Trimara Services, an aquaculture services company, in partnership with Simply Blue Aquaculture, part of blue economy developer, Simply Blue Energy. Five farming loca�ons are being iden�fied where semi-closed farming systems can be deployed to grow fish from smolt transfer through to harvest size. The first farm will be in Loch Long at a site called Beinn Reithe.

‘We are very excited to be bringing semi-closed farming technology to Scotland,’ said Stewart Hawthorn, Director of LLS and former Farming Director at Dawnfresh. ‘These systems will eliminate sea lice by preven�ng the parasites from establishing a breeding popula�on on the farmed salmon. Semi-closed systems have been used in Norway for over 8 years and studies show the success a�er many farming cycles. Our philosophy is that we should eliminate

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rather than treat the problem – and we can do that with these systems.’

Christoph Harwood, also Director of LLS, said: ‘Uniquely the LLS farms will be adapted to capture and remove most of the salmon’s organic waste which in conven�onal aquaculture se�ngs se�les on the seabed. Our system will capture the waste, pump it ashore and concentrate it into a valuable resource. It can then be used as an on-land fer�lizer or in anaerobic diges�on energy produc�on. LLS is commi�ed to being part of the circular economy in Scotland.’

The semi-closed technology is ideally suited for deployment in Scotland. These farming enclosures separate the fish from the ocean environment by surrounding the farm with an impermeable bag.

Above: Semi closed cage in Norway; Opposite from top left: Stewart Hawthorn; Christoph Harwood; Beinn Reithe Map

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14/09/2020 15:35:08

The long plan Deep water is pumped into the farming enclosure via very energy efficient low-head pumps. The clean, deep water is free from juvenile sea lice and harmful plankton – these damaging organisms will not have a chance to enter the system.

Oxygen can be added to the water as required to ensure that the salmon are always held in ideal condi�ons.

Hawthorn con�nued: ‘I’m looking forward to farming fish in ideal condi�ons in the natural ocean environment.

By using this type of farming system, we will have healthier fish that do not need to be constantly treated for sea lice. This means that the fish can be le� to grow in a stress-free, clean environment. Salmon farming has been vital for Scotland’s rural economy. By using these low impact systems we will ensure that the industry con�nues to prosper and support the livelihood of people in our rural environment’.

LLS has engaged Johnston Carmichael, one of Scotland’s leading corporate finance advisory firms, to assist in raising the first tranche of £3m to support the ini�al phase of development. FF

Loch Long

Beinn Reithe

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Gare Loch Loch Long

very excited to be bringing semi-closed “We arefarming technology to Scotland ”

With fish welfare in focus. The GOOD concept provides optimal conditions for cleaner fish. Proper protection, adapted feeding and a safe environment offers the best conditions for efficient delousing.

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p44 Loch long.indd 45

+47 38 61 05 30 info@okmarine.no www.okmarine.no

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14/09/2020 15:35:31

Letters

Letter to the Editor

17th August 2020

Seafood 2040 AFTER reading Dr Mar�n Jaffa’s ar�cle in the most recent edi�on of Fish Farmer on the development of the new English Aquaculture Strategy, I feel I should write to clarify a few points in rela�on to this work, and the role of the commissioning body, Seafood 2040.

Seafood 2040 is the organisa�on that oversees the delivery of this work. SF2040 is an ini�a�ve that brings together industry, government and other stakeholders across the en�re supply-chain with the aim to support the seafood industry’s sustainable development over the next 20 years, and in that sense it is somewhat unusual, if not unique. The origin of this programme includes the iden�fica�on of a clear need for seafood to be included within government’s 25-year Food and Farming Plan in 2015. Subsequently, Seafish were tasked by Defra to deliver a vision for this work, delivered to Defra in 2016. Then followed the setup of a task force, at Ministerial request, tasked with providing a 25-year plan for industry along with recommenda�ons for how to achieve sustainable development of the seafood sector. This work was supported by Defra, facilitated by Seafish and the task force included true cross-sectoral representa�on, encompassing not just the fisheries and aquaculture industries but also the processing sector and other interest groups as well.

In this way the approach was comprehensive, and, ul�mately aligned to government’s aims for secure food supply chains.

The task force delivered the first SF2040 strategy to the then Minister, George Eus�ce MP, in November 2017. That strategy included a series of 25 recommenda�ons, built on the founda�ons of collabora�on, science and best prac�ce. As the strategy included a true and comprehensive full value-chain approach, some, but not all, of the recommenda�ons were a�ributed to the aquaculture sector. One of the ac�ons within one of the recommenda�ons rela�ng to aquaculture, is to develop an English Aquaculture Strategy with Government-supported growth targets and a short-, medium-, and long-term delivery plan. There is therefore a lot of thinking that has gone into this process prior to commissioning the work.

In rela�on to the current status of the aquaculture industry in England it is important to recognise that aquaculture in England has a long history in both freshwater and marine environments da�ng back many decades.

Over that �me there are some examples of work that have pioneered current produc�on systems understanding, and the selec�ve breeding programmes for rainbow trout in the 1970s are an obvious example of that type of success. The English aquaculture industry does at least in part support the Sco�sh salmon industry with the produc�on of smolts that are exported north of the border. The shellfish industry, with an equally long period of produc�on has provided high quality product into markets for several decades, and at this �me provides one of the few examples of successful offshore aquaculture systems produc�on in Europe.

Volumes of produc�on may be rela�vely sta�c, but there are opportuni�es for development even though there is clearly more compe��on for space in the aqua�c environments of England as Dr Jaffa states. There do exist specific challenges in facilita�ng the growth of the sector, and as

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men�oned, legisla�on is part of this discussion where SF2040 through the Seafood Industry Leadership Group (SILG) and the Aquaculture Leadership Group (ALG) specifically, provide pla�orms where industry can engage directly with Defra and the regulators to look at what may be achievable in improving the efficiency of regula�on. This is par�cularly important in the context of Brexit, and the current new priority of Covid-19 has also brought the security of supply chains into sharp relief (providing also a layer of emphasis on domes�c produc�on).

In rela�on to markets, although SF2040 has an element to look at domes�c produc�on, the strategic priori�es also include opportuni�es for export and access to interna�onal markets, so it is not necessarily the case that all the product that England could grow in aquaculture systems in the future would be consumed in England.

The seafood industry, whether capture fishiers or aquaculture, is global in nature, and there is no reason why the future English aquaculture industry should be any different.

Finally, to round up on a posi�ve note, the pace of development for aquaculture is growing rapidly, and this creates an enormous number of opportuni�es. The current status, and the ever-increasing need for food (especially low environmental-impact food), and the importance of securing supply chains (whether for import or export) provide some important drivers for the English seafood industry, within which aquaculture development has an important role to play. The growing industry may not develop in the image of some of the other more well-known sectors, but it does provide England with the chance to do something a bit different.

Personally, I would like to think that innova�on will feature strongly in the industry for the future, and that is an area where I think England has a strong chance of being compe��ve. Like Dr. Jaffa, we all eagerly await the delivery of the strategy, as well as looking at the implementa�on of this work in the coming years.

It is “ important to recognise that aquaculture in England has a long history in both freshwater and marine environments da�ng back many decades.

”

Dr. Neil Auchterlonie Chair, SF2040

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:36:41

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14/09/2020 13:32:06

Eastern Promise – Far East Markets

BY VINCE MCDONAGH

Eastern Promise

The state of play In China and other Far East markets

L

ess than a year ago China was being hailed as a land of golden opportunity for the world’s leading salmon exporters.

The country regularly played host to a succession of trade delegations from Scotland, Norway and Canada with newcomer Iceland also keen to get in on the act.

Then along came Covid-19 and business slowed dramatically. But, pandemic apart, there is growing evidence that China may no longer offer the rewards it once promised.

It is why some companies are now looking to other countries in Asia for more assured growth, with South Korea, Japan and Taiwan leading the pack.

The Chinese economy is slowing but that was always going to be the case. No, it is Beijing’s relations with the rest of the world that is starting to force a rethink .

While this Colossus of a country – population 1.4 billion - has never been a cuddly bear among nations, its brutal treatment of the minority Uigher Muslim population and its crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong has thrown up the possibility of international sanctions at some future date.

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Vince - Far East.indd 48

Below: Sushi on sale at a Taiwan seafood market Opposite: South Korean salmon

There is also an ongoing trade war with the United States, coupled with the possibility of renewed internal unrest at home, both placing a question mark over long term stability.

It may be time for seafood exporters to think again when mapping out their priority targets for growth.

Remember too that coronavirus started in China, posing legitimate questions about its food related hygiene rules.

Yet it was quick to halt Norwegian salmon shipments in July when a fish cutting board in a Beijing market was found to be contaminated with Covid.

Despite Norwegian seafood being given the all clear, salmon exports in week 30 were just 144 tonnes, a third of what they were in the same week last year.

Dealing with Beijing can also be frustrating.

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14/09/2020 15:38:18

Eastern Promise

One senior official told the Norwegian state broadcaster NRK that despite complying with the food safety bodies in China, salmon was s�ll not coming into the country in the volume Norwegian fish farmers had hoped: ‘I believe we done everything we can to ensure our seafood is exported into China smoothly. As well as nego�a�ng an agreement we have answered the many ques�onnaires they have sent us and we have given them all the assurances we can.’

Yet sales to nearby Taiwan – another possible area of conflict in the region – showed a healthy increase at 215 tons.

There are also signs of a revival in the Japanese market which had slowed in recent years.

There are a number of plans to build new land based salmon farms in the country, the most interes�ng being the one at the foot of Mount Fuji.

But South Korea is now the country to watch.

Despite upheaval from the pandemic it is buying record volumes of North Atlan�c salmon.

The Norwegian Seafood Council said seafood exports of all types to Korea totalled NOK 52.9 billion (almost £4.6 billion), a rise of 3.5 per cent on the previous period. This included almost 14,000 tones of salmon, the same total as for the whole of 2015.

Seafood Council analyst Paul Aandahl said recently that while South Korea remains a niche market, it is constantly increasing in importance.

Norway provides 80 per cent of Korea’s salmon, with Chile shipping the remaining 20 per cent, so there is a clear incen�ve for Sco�sh producers to get a foot in the door.

Seoul is one of the few governments that has managed to keep Coronavirus under �ght control which meant the restaurant sector fared be�er than most other countries. The number of on-line grocery stores is growing fast while tradi�onal supermarkets too can’t get enough salmon at the moment.

The rise of promising new markets in Asia doesn’t mean exporters should ignore China – just be aware that both the poli�cal and economic climate are changing.

And most countries in the region are now inves�ng in land based farming facili�es which means their reliance on imports will become less in the years ahead.

It is also worth remembering that Europe remains by far the largest and most lucra�ve market for Atlan�c salmon.

With annual expansion at around eight per cent, aquaculture is now the world’s fastest growing food category so there is plenty of scope for investment and enterprise.

Technology development is con�nuing apace, not just in Scotland and Norway, but in the

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Vince - Far East.indd 49

Tradi�onal “ (South Korean)

supermarkets can’t get enough salmon at the moment

”

Middle East where fish farming was almost unknown just a few years ago.

It opens up opportuni�es for aquaculture equipment supply companies as well as producers.

No-one knows when, or if, Covid-19 is going to end. Un�l an effec�ve vaccine is found the global market will remain uncertain.

But the salmon industry has shown remarkable resilience in what has been the most turbulent period in its history.

It has also had an easy ride un�l earlier this year which makes carefully choosing the right overseas markets in an increasingly troubled world all the more important. FF

49

14/09/2020 15:38:45

Processing News

Marel in takeover of German food cutting company TREIF ing all relevant business activities of the group. The purchase price on cash and debt free basis (enterprise value) will be paid with EUR 128 million in cash and 2.9 million Marel shares. The closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including anti-trust approval, which is expected to take place later in the year.

About TREIF The acquisition will be TREIF, a family-owned business financed through Marel’s strong headquartered in Oberlahr, Germabalance sheet, existing credit ny is at the forefront in solutions and facilities and available treasury services focused on portioning, shares that Mr. Uwe Reifendicing, slicing and cutting häuser, current owner and of food. The company was CEO, will hold with a lockfounded in 1948, focusing up period of 18 months. on cutting solutions Pro forma leverage for the meat industry, following completion which continues to be of the acquisition is its largest segment. estimated to be 1.2xnet With annual revenues of debt/EBITDA, compared over EUR 80 million, and to 0.6x at the end of 2Q around 13 million in EBIT2020 and the targeted DA, TREIF has an impressive capital structure of 2-3x track record of continuous net debt/EBITDA. The product innovation and steady acquisition is fully in line growth with 500 employees Top: Árni Oddur Thordarson with Marel´s previously in facilities in Europe, US, Above: Uwe Reifenhäuser announced 2017-2026 and China. Its long-standing growth strategy, of 12% average annual customer base is diversified, ranging from increase in revenues through a balanced mix specialist retailers to blue-chip international of organic and acquired growth. food processors. Árni Oddur Thordarson, CEO of Marel, commented: A shared passion for innovation and part‘We are pleased to announce the agreement nership with customers to acquire German processing equipment TREIF is a great addition to Marel, strengthprovider TREIF, a true hidden champion in our ening the full-line product offering, increasindustry. With this transaction, two teching standard equipment sales and leveraging nological leaders with a shared passion for aftermarket potential with Marel’s extensive innovation and a vision to transform the way global reach and local services in all regions. food is processed, join forces.

Like Marel, TREIF is highly focused on inno‘We have followed TREIF for years and been vation and cutting-edge technology, backed impressed by their cutting-edge technology, by an experienced and committed team and talented team and success in customer enlong-standing partnerships with customers. gagement, ranging from small shops to leadTREIF’s product portfolio in the cutting seging blue chip international food companies. ment, portioning, dicing and slicing is highly Together, we are better positioned to meet complementary with Marel’s product portfocustomer needs in terms of automation, flexlio. The transaction will enhance Marel’s fullibility and time to market for consumer-ready line offering for the meat industry, as well products. TREIF’s leading cutting technology as its other segments focused on improving is highly complementary to Marel’s existing automation, food safety and flexibility for product portfolio. TREIF’s largest business consumer-ready product offerings. United, segments today are within meat and baked the two companies are in a stronger position goods, and we believe their technical capabilto drive further growth, providing better ities can be cascaded to Marel’s poultry and value for both current and future customers. fish segments and accelerate our innovation roadmap. TREIF’s installed base is substantial Transaction highlights and timeline and by leveraging Marel’s digital platform Marel has agreed to acquire the entire share and global reach with local teams in all key capital of TREIF Maschinenbau GmbH, includMAREL has announced an agreement to acquire German food cutting technology provider TREIF Maschinenbau GmbH (TREIF). The two companies have a great strategic and cultural fit with complementary product portfolios and geographic presence, creating a strong platform to enhance further growth.

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Processing News.indd 50

regions, we believe that we can drive further growth and aftermarket potential.

‘The acquisition of TREIF is in line with our 2017-2026 growth strategy. There are ample consolidation opportunities in our industry, and Marel has the commitment and capital structure to pursue opportunities that support our ambitious growth target of reaching EUR 3 billion in revenues by 2026.’

Uwe Reifenhäuser, CEO of TREIF, commented: ‘I am confident that we have found a great home for TREIF’s legacy and secured the long-term success of our leading technology, our customers and our committed employees.

My father founded TREIF more than 70 years ago with the vision to offer the best possible cutting technology in the meat segment, later expanding into dairy, baked goods and other food segments in need of precise cutting technology. Our passion has always been to deliver innovative, reliable solutions with a strong value proposition. As a result we have one of the largest food cutting product portfolio and a loyal customer base across both the retail and processing industry.

‘TREIF and Marel are a good strategic fit, both from a product and geographical perspective. We have known and respected each other for a long time, and our recent discussions confirm our cultural fit and shared passion for innovation and customer satisfaction. Looking further ahead, the dynamic global food market is evolving towards more complex and digitalized solutions, and our long-standing customers worldwide need qualified local service teams on all continents to keep their operations running at optimal performance. Marel has invested significantly in its global reach and digital platforms, making them an excellent partner in this regard. Our dedicated employees will get the opportunity to join a large international organization that is also the global industry leader in our field.’

‘

We are pleased to announce the agreement to acquire German processing equipment provider TREIF, a true hidden champion in our industry

’

www.fishfarmermagazine.co.uk

14/09/2020 15:40:00

Boats and Harvesting

Busy boats 2020 has seen plenty of activity around new builds

D

espite the covid pandemic 2020 has been a very busy year for wellboat and feedbarge delivery, with barely an issue of Fish Farmer going by without repor�ng on a new transac�on. The major shipyards all have healthy order books, with a large number of fish farms taking delivery of new cra� already this year. Aas Mek’s new vessel was the cover story for our June issue, with an interes�ng gaelic twist to the back story – check out our archive edi�on at h�ps://issuu.com/fishfarmermagazine for full details.

The spin-off of all this boat ac�vity has been a healthy amount of business for all those in the supply chain that offer various services and supplies for the builds. Saxton Marine are one such supplier.

The experienced team at Saxton Marine are there to make sourcing high quality, mari�me supplies as easy and cost-effec�ve as possible.

In addi�on to their core business of Anchor, stud link chain cable and appropriate shackles, they supply, worldwide, everything from AC-14 Anchors, mooring chains, deck fi�ngs and specialist equipment for Fish Farms and the Yach�ng industry.

Their expert Technical Department will support you right the way through the ordering process ensuring you have everything you need, on �me and in full. Their lean, cost-effec�ve structure assures that you that their prices will, at a minimum, be highly compe��ve.

When it comes to barges, a back-to-barge pumping system like the one offered by Li� Up can make collec�ng and transpor�ng morts from the cages to the barge a fully automated system.

Dead fish are pumped from the bo�om of the cages through a fully enclosed pipe-grid to the service barge or shorebase for dewatering,

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Boats Intro.indd 51

separa�on, and disposal.

The benefits of the systems are: • Effec�ve collec�on and transport of morts in an enclosed system • Easier and more convenient collec�on and handling of morts • Allows for mortality removal also in severe weather condi�ons • Eliminates the need for sending boats to cages for morts collec�on • One-man mortality removal from the barge every day • Reduces health- and safety risks for the operator • The opera�on can be automated with

Left: Saxton Marine Mooring chain

51

14/09/2020 15:41:44

Boats and Harvesting

machines are always built to meet their clients demands for capacity,gentle handling and low maintenance. They always work closely to find the right solu�on for the job.

This means a tailor made approach for every customer. All ideas, plus the knowledge of both Fjordvejis Maskinfabrik and the client, are developed and discussed before the finished layout for the machine is decided. Once finalised, the company’s engineers will make the drawings and sta�c calcula�ons and the machine will then be manufactured at their factory in Denmark. FF �mers and remote control • Increased bio security due to removal of morts and waste water • Smaller environmental foot-print • Future-oriented and environmentally friendly

Above: Li� UP Mort removal equipment Right: Fjordvejis Maskinfabrik ship loader, unloader

The back-to-barge systems consists of one or two main pipe-lines from the cages to the dewaterer on the barge or on shore. Distance can vary from 30 to 600M depending on site-layout.

Li� Up also offer a dewaterer for barges and large service boats When it comes to the loading and unloading of vessels, Fjordvejis Maskinfabrik A/S is one of the leaders in the development and manufacture of ship loaders and unloaders. Their

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01778 392014 www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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Boats and Harvesting

Easier morts handling

H

andling morts can be a tiresome process. Liftup has been developing and producing back-2-barge systems for centralised pumping of morts for many years, pumping through a pipe system from the bottom of the cages, back to the barge or landbase and directly fed into the grinding tanks using the Liftup pumps in the cages as the engine of the system.

This makes the morts handling easier and safer, even in severe weather and they are handled by just one person on the barge or landbase. Everything is controlled from the barge instead of having to go by boat to each cage. The environment in the cage is improved as the contaminated water in the cage is pumped back to the barge.

Liftup is continuously working to expand its product range to make ďŹ sh farming safer and more sustainable. For more information, visit: www.liftup.no

LOADING AND UNLOADING OF SHIPS Fjordvejs Maskinfabrik A/S (FM Bulk Handling) develop and manufacture machinery for bulk handling.

We are experts in the gentle handling of fish feed pellets and other products and are known in the business for our knowledge and unique unloading solutions.

Every solution is always tailor-made for each ship or land based installation.

OUR MACHINES AND SOLUTIONS ARE BUILT TO LAST! Contact: Fjordvejs Maskinfabrik A/S Fabriksvej 14, 7800 Skive, Denmark Phone +45 97 58 42 00 e-mail: post@fjordvejs.dk www.fjordvejs.dk www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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Cages, pens, nets and moorings

All lit up Illuminating solutions for cages, pens and nets

Pis

Cage li manipu

Pisces 1000 of which is b reliability, sea halide lamp.

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elcome to our regular look at the world of cages, pens and nets, a vital component of aquaculture.

One of the issues around fish cages is to ensure that they are sufficiently illuminated using a high quality solu�on. BGB Innova�on is one such company that provides illumina�on products for salmon farming and more.

Pisces 1000 is a submersible, pendant, fish cage illuminator, the design of which is based upon the Pisces 400 which has an outstanding record of reliability, season a�er season.The luminaire embodies a 1000 wa�, metal halide lamp. It is self-contained, streamlined and corrosion proof. (Supplied with 25m cable as standard- extra length is also available)Pisces is designed for ver�cal suspension, with a li�ing eye built into the housing.

Developed in response to the requirement for an efficient photoperiod light for tanks, ponds and raceways, Turtle is an en�rely self-contained floa�ng unit, housing a highly efficient metal halide discharge lamp together with associated control gear. In keeping with standard BGB Marine prac�ce, the starter is safely enclosed within the unit, avoiding the hazard presented by systems which transmit high voltage igni�on pulses, via inadequate cable and connectors, from a cage side mounted control pack to the underwater lamp.Turtle’s design makes use of the cri�cal angle op�cal principle to minimise light escape, by using the water surface as a mirror.

The posi�on of the discharge lamp, rela�ve to the water surface, ensures that light cannot pass directly through the surface, conferring the added benefit of easy stock observa�on.

Pisces is de the housing.

protection ag When it comes to nets, clearly one of the major The cable in problems is keeping them clean. It was pleasing, connector a damage. Top therefore, to discover the versa�le new stealth I.P.67 connec cleaner product from the innova�ve company SPECIFICA Ocein.

StealthCleaner is probably the most efficient and gentle net cleaner in the market, combining a large volume of water with low pressure to reduce wear and tear of the net.

A�er cleaning of more than 8000 nets with the Stealth Cleaner we are very confident in it’s unrivalled performance.

The Stealth Cleaner is produced by one of the world’s most acknowledged WORKROV manufacturers, Kystdesign as.

The Stealth Cleaner is patented, and it’s very unique triangle design makes it possible to clean even the most inaccessible parts of the nets.

Above: BGB Innova�on’s Electrically powered, the Stealth Cleaner is Pisces 1000 enviromentally friendly with no danger of emisOpposite - top: Ocein’s sions of oil to the water. Module-based design StealthCleaner. below: ensures easy change of parts with minimum Stranda Prolog’s Manta down-�me. 360 degree maneuverability provides effec�ve and easy opera�on of the system. T: +44 (0) 1476 576280 F: +44 (0) 1476 561557 E: mail@bgbmarine.c > > > > >

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Cages, pens, nets and moorings

The Stealth Cleaner is easy to control and provides easy acces to difficult areas. With 4 cameras, cleaning and inspec�ons is thoroughly monitored.

A wide range of specially developed tooling enables StealthCleaner to cover a variety of purposes. Ocein aim to develop efficient tooling to clean every part of the fish farm and the moorings.

Another great net cleaner is the Manta from Norwegian company Stranda Prolog.

The Manta is developed in close coopera�on with people who have many years of prac�cal experience with cleaning the nets in fish farming cages. It is designed to work with the forces of nature. It has neutral buoyancy and indifferent stability. When placed in water with the thrusters shut down, it neither sinks nor floats to the surface, and it has no tendency to right itself.

This makes it very easy to maneuver, as the machine offers no resistance to the operators input.

The Manta flies through the water, easy to operate, efficient and agile.

It is designed to get into all the hard to reach places of a cage: Corners, ropeholds, etc. 8 strategically placed light sensi�ve cameras offers the pilot a 360-degree view.

Two forward-looking cameras providing the pilot with a view of the machine, and what’s in front, as it skims across the net. Two rear facing cameras provide ‘eyes in the back of his head’, allowing him to check on his progress, adjust and, if necessary, turn back and do over.

Four side cameras cover the area around both side fins. Addi�onaly, the Manta is equipped with 6 lights assis�ng the cameras with sufficient light coverage. The Manta has no belts or other moving parts that come in contact with the net. This means reduced wear and tear.

With the Manta you can clean fouled nets, or you can keep them foul free. For cleaning of fouled nets, Stranda Prolog recommend high pressure, small diameter nozzles and flying the Manta at a lower speed. For fouling preven�on, they recommend lower pressure, bigger diameter nozzles and higher speed.

LED Cage Lighting For Photoperiod Manipulation The All NEW Pisces Range - Now Available!

Phone: +44 (0) 1476 576 280 Email: sales@bgbinnovation.com WWW.BGBINNOVATION.COM www.fishfarmermagazine.com

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04/09/2020 12:40 14/09/2020 12:17:21

Underwater Contracting (UCO) – Advertorial

Innovation produces novel solution to net fixing

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here is a con�nual focus on containment surrounding opennet pen fish farms. Farmers face challenges to their stock every day, whether it is predators looking for a free meal or adverse weather and changing environmental condi�ons. Ensuring enclosures are secure and stock is safe is enshrined in industry best prac�ce. Regula�ons determine the design and strengths required for nets used. However vigilant farmers are, there is always a possibility of nets being damaged by predators or equipment. Ensuring a small problem doesn’t become a big issue requires nets to be regularly checked.

Net Inspec�ons Inspec�ng nets is a mundane and boring task, but vital to ensure the integrity of all stock holding units. It is normally undertaken by divers on a rou�ne basis or as part of the net washing process where operators assess net cleanliness with a camera. To undertake a thorough inspec�on takes significant dive �me, especially with ever larger and deeper pens.

Net cleaning teams are focused on net cleanliness rather than trying to catch sight of single broken net strands.

A Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) is good at repe��ve tasks which require �me underwater like inspec�ng nets and other equipment. It is limited only by the pilot’s need for a break and a reliable power source. Every dive is recordable and provides verified proof of net condi�on and where any broken strands may be located (iden�fied at a depth and heading). With a move towards bigger pen sizes, the area of net to cover is con�nually increasing. Is it �me to use ROVs in conjunc�on with divers to inspect and repair?

Changing the approach to Net repairs Repairing a net is a skilled job requiring accuracy to undertake repairs and dexterity to ensure the repair provides net integrity and stock security.

Underwater repairs to date have nearly always required the services of a diver.

So why would you use an ROV system to inspect a net if you s�ll need to get a diver to repair any issues? What if the ROV could undertake the net survey, affect a temporary repair and divers could then be used on a planned basis to permanently fix the net?

Development of a solu�on Underwater Contrac�ng (UCO) has been developing a secure and easily applied net repair patch over the last nine months. This will hook securely into the net without compromising it. It must be flexible to move with the net but strong enough to maintain integrity. It needs to be completely flat against the net, allowing net cleaners to con�nue to operate and deployable with an ROV system. NetFIX is a new and cost-effec�ve way of making a temporary repair using an ROV to ensure net integrity, whilst allowing a planned �me to undertake a permanent fix.

Underwater Contrac�ng (UCO) is a Sco�sh based company providing underwater services to the Aquaculture sector. The company specialises in the innova�ve design and engineering of diver-less underwater tooling for the aquaculture and energy industries. They use ROVs to provide a total mortality recovery service with the patented FOOVER® system and also undertake a range of surveys, including seabed surveys, anchor posi�oning, mooring condi�on and vessel surveys.

The Advantage of NetFIX NetFIX is one of the tools developed by UCO to reduce cost, improve safety and reduce opera�onal risk on fish farms by minimising the reliance on divers.

UCO’s ROV deployed NetFIX requires a single operator and can be deployed easily from a workboat. It provides a secure, flat patch to maintain net integrity, More information at: allows net cleaners to con�nue to operate and gives �me to plan a permanent www.underwatercontracting.com or email repair. at info@underwatercontracting.com

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Underwater Contracting - PED.indd 58

Top: Example of net damage Middle: NetFIX system in opera�on Above: NetFIX

www.fishfarmermagazine.com

14/09/2020 15:51:26

Gentle and fast fish net cleaning No one saw such a quiet-running and efficient net cleaner as StealthCleaner coming – nor do the fish. The StealthCleaner is very quiet running, reaches into every part of the net, cleans fast and efficiently, has several tools available that can be connected – and you can also use the four cameras for inspection and documentation.

More than one hundred million square metres cleaned – without any damage to any net!

Flexible The unique triangular shape allows the StealthCleaner to reach every part of the net and be manoeuvred in all directions. The special nose disc lets you easily access hard-toreach places such as corners and connections to the bottom ring.

Gentle The revolutionary combination of pressure and flow gives you a completely clean net without any wear or damage. The design of body and side grids keeps the cleaner fish safe from injury.

Quiet Swims at up to 4 knots with no high frequency sounds – which will stress and disturb the fish only minimally.

Powerful The StealthCleaner is very efficient as it uses large amounts of water at a low pressure to clean the net. With its 21 kW of thruster force, it is the most powerful net cleaner on the market.

Learn more, request an offer, and see the StealthCleaner in action:

Ocein.no/en/en-StealthCleaner | Tel.: +47 412 96 500

Ocein.indd 59

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Products and services

What’s NEW Monthly update on industry innovations and solutions from around the world

Predator deterrents hit the target ACE Aquatec have launched two new predator deterrent automation features that minimise the risk of habituation with targeted activation during predator attacks.

The first is a ramp down feature that automatically reduces acoustic output after an initial manual activation period, as well as synchronising every deterrent at a site to cut the duty cycle.

Thermal imaging triggers have also been developed for farms looking to further automate their sites. Thermal cameras identify when seals are approaching and automatically activate acoustic deterrents.

Both features pair with the company’s award-winning RT1 (low frequency) and US3 (mid frequency) systems. www.aceaquatec.com/predator-control T: +44 7808 930923

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Rethinking plastic AS an aquaculture company, Alltech Coppens has to play its part in feeding the world responsibly. Its objectives are aligned with the long-term aims of Planet of Plenty™, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Sometimes, rethinking what you have always done is the best way to make an impact and recycle effectively. As part of their commitment, Alltech Coppens aim to focus on reducing their use of materials.

The company are reducing their use of materials by drastically decreasing the variation in their packaging. All packaging is now 100% recyclable, meaning they save more than 10 kilometres of plastic annually.

Alltech Coppens believes it is fundamental to limit its environmental impact and is proud of the continuous efforts it is making to reduce its footprint. www.alltechcoppens.com T: +31 (0) 88 23 42 200 Enhanced digestion COMPATIBILITY of feeds with fish digestive and metabolic capacities is paramount for optimal growth performance and health. Suboptimal levels of dietary lipids, or the seasonal variations in water temperature, negatively affect the absorption and utilization of lipids and lipophilic nutrients.

Adisseo has developed digestive enhancers based on natural emulsifying components to restore the digestive and metabolic mechanisms associated to lipid use. In seabream under 20% fat feed, its solutions have proved to optimize lipid absorption and metabolism, and subsequently tissue deposition and growth. Supplementation is therefore a strategy to maximize fish growth and health under current formulation practices and production conditions. www.adisseo.com Bird Stop BORIS Nets have been working very closely with Scottish Sea Farms (SSF) in the development of a new high pole bird net type for two of their sea water sites.

For some years it has been realised a new type of protection was needed to meet the environmental and practical day to day working life of the cages. Using a new development in high tenacity UHMWPE twines covered with the latest UV stabilisers, the netting is incredibly light and durable with a strength 15 times higher than an equivalent steel product.

Boris Managing Director John Howard was on site during the trials and installation, working closely with SSF and Gaelforce Fusion staff to see everything went as planned and all agreed how much easier it was to work with the much lighter netting. www.borisnet.co.uk T: 01253 874891

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Products and services

What’s NEW Monthly update on industry innovations and solutions from around the world Further improvements for FIAP’s Alu series FIAP GmbH from Bavaria, Germany, has for many years offered a range of light but sturdy aluminum landing nets for fish farmers to facilitate their work.

The FIAP profinet Alu was developed in-house by the company many years ago.

Among the features contributing to its robust and user-friendly design is the aluminum bow system of the net, which is reinforced for strength and resilience. The net is pulled into a guide rail in the bracket and flexibly secured with plastic beads.

The series comes in several different sizes to meet every need. Options are available in terms of frame width and mesh size and spare parts such as extra nets, beads, clamps, or handles are obtainable from the company.

For more information: www.fiap.com T: +49 96 2892130 E: verkauf@fiap.de

Aqualife jumps on Vert’s reduced rate hire scheme VERT Technologies, the Edinburgh-based advanced compressor manufacturer, has launched a new reduced-rate hire scheme initiative to support businesses looking to kick-start their activities but unwilling to invest in new kit. And already, Stirling-based fish vaccination business, Aqualife Services Ltd, has taken up Vert’s new offer.

Aqualife is the world’s largest fish vaccine delivery company and since 1996 has been leading and pioneering farmed fish health and welfare.

Kristian Clezy, Aqualife’s Head of Engineering, said: ‘we needed a source of compact, quiet, low- vibration air to reduce stress on fish during the vaccination procedure and to help create a pleasant working environment for the operators of our new semi-automatic fish vaccination solution.

‘We first saw the A150 compressor in action at Vert’s Stirling University Innovation Park roadshow event in February and were impressed by the low noise and vibration of the compressor, as well as its ability to run continuously with a 100% duty cycle.

Vert CEO, Phil Harris, said: ‘We are in the happy position of having the capacity to hire out a small number of compressors to SMEs which, like Aqualife, need to kick-start their businesses without having to incur fresh capital expenditure’. www.vertrotors.com T: +44 (0) 131 664 3600

Optimal planning for land-based fish farming!

FIIZK are well known for their digital solutions, and the Horizon product suite helps aquaculture companies with budgeting, planning, reporting and optimization, both biological and economical.

Almost 50% of the produced salmon in Norway goes through FiiZK’s Digital Horizon systems. Now they are developing an expansion to their Horizon portfolio, that specializes in landbased fish farming. When utilizing the production facilities with a goal to produce as much fish as possible, there are several factors in play and the new module offers an easy to use setup.

The expansion of Horizon Planner gives a customized transfer plan/simulator, alarms on multiple parameters such as biofilter limitations, densities etc and benchmarking comparing planned production performance to actual production performance.

Contact one of their digital consultants to learn more about Horizon Planner Livestock. www.fiizk.com Gael Force Power Distribution SECURE, reliable and tidy power distribution to pens is critical for the operation of modern farms. But maintaining uninterrupted power in a dynamic and exposed marine environment can be a challenge.

With their extensive marine experience, Gael Force have introduced a newly created aquaculture specific design for full power infrastructure.

Compliant to 18th edition regulations and signed off by their qualified electricians, Gael Force’s Power Distribution system allows for a fully flexible and safe installation from barge to pen. With individual RCDs, each power point on the pen can be monitored and controlled individually, meaning that should power trip you won’t lose power to the whole pen, or worse, multiple pens - only the affected piece of equipment will lose power.

To learn more contact craig.graham@gaelforcegroup.com www.gaelforcegroup.com

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Industry Diary

Industry DIARY The latest aquaculture events, conferences and courses OCTOBER 20

JUNE 21

ASSG ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2020

AQUACULTURE EUROPE 2021

The Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers’ annual conference features speakers from around the world.

Madeira, Portugal October 5-8, 2021

Oban, UK October 8-9, 2020

NOVEMBER 21

FEBRUARY 21

RASTECH CONFERENCE

AQUACULTURE AMERICA WORLD AQUACULTURE 2021 2021 San Antonio,Texas, USA February 21-24, 2021

MARCH 21 LATIN AMERICAN & CARIBBEAN AQUACULTURE 2021 Guayaquil, Ecuador March 22-25, 2021

OCTOBER 21

The event will be held in Singapore this year with involvement from countries throughout the Asian-Pacific region and around the world.

Aquaculture is growing rapidly in the region and therefore 2021 is the perfect time for the world aquaculture community to turn its focus here.

Singapore June 14-18, 2021

RAStech 2021 is the venue for learning, networking and knowledge sharing on RAS technologies, design and implementation across the world.

Hilton Head Island, SC, USA November 3-4, 2021

SEAWORK

APRIL 21 AQUACULTURE EUROPE 2021

This conference will cover the full scope and diversity of European aquaculture. AE 2021 will feature an international trade exhibition, industry forums, student sessions and activities, satellite workshops and updates on EU research.

Cork, Ireland April 12-15, 2021

MAY 21 AQUACULTURE UK 2021

WORLD AQUACULTURE 2021

Seawork is Europe’s leading commercial marine and workboat exhibition, providing businesses the opportunity to showcase their products and services to an international audience.

Southampton, Mayflower Park, UK, 15-17 June, 2021 Visit www.seawork.com

SEPTEMBER 21 ASIAN PACIFIC AQUACULTURE 2021

Aviemore will once again be the venue for this bi-annual trade fair and conference. It is undoubtedly the most important aquaculture exhibition held in the British Isles. The show has a tremendous following and with increased investment for 2021 it promises to reach even further across the broader aquaculture markets in both the UK and Europe.

Aviemore, United Kingdom May 19-21, 2021

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Surabaya, Indonesia September 7-10, 2021

WAS North America & Aquaculture Canada 2021 This World Aquaculture Society event will feature hundreds of world class speakers and delegates from around the globe.

St John’s Newfoundland, Canada, September 26-29, 2021

Merida, Mexico November 15-19, 2021

DECEMBER 21 AQUACULTURE AFRICA 2021 Alexandria, Egypt December 11-14, 2021

FEBRUARY 22 AQUACULTURE 2022 San Diego, California, USA February 27 - March 3, 2022

APRIL 22 WORLD AQUACULTURE 2022 Qingdao, China April 25-28, 2022

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14/09/2020 12:23:50

Cork, Ireland, April 12-15, 2021

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Opinion – Inside track

The three horsemen

BY NICK JOY

I

know it’s depressing to raise this subject but I fear it has to be faced. The UK is facing an uncertain time with possibilities of a second wave and a no deal Brexit but for Scotland the picture gets significantly worse with the added joy of the prospect of another referendum on independence.

So many who read this will think that the points are obvious and should be acknowledged by all but it would seem that our politicians are oblivious to the stressors on our economy.

If we assume that the combined input of agriculture, aquaculture and fishing to the Scottish economy is somewhere between 5 and 10% then the industry’s importance is clear. Unlike a lot of other more modern, more flexible industries, these industries give long term, well paid jobs but much more importantly they are the lifeblood of the rural economy. But in the very long term nature of rural food production lies its vulnerability.

All of these industries require a stable basis for investment because they have to look a long way ahead.You only have to look at the fishing industry, which has existed in a constantly changing, regulatory nightmare for the last 25 years to see what happens when government can’t make up its mind. The very essence of a rural industry is that it will produce its products a long way into the future and so the equipment, usually expensive, has to last a long time and the business has to be well planned. The only way any business can possibly succeed when it is so capitally expensive is if its markets and export potential are relatively stable. I am aware that the salmon market has been volatile for many years but one of its strengths has been the ability to move salmon almost anywhere with limited complexity.

The volatility has had other effects on the industry and profitability has been bearable to brilliant for some time. This situation is about to change or at least become significantly more complicated.

Coronavirus has been the joker in the pack, which has significantly changed the game in all markets. Some industries have adapted better than others to these changes and we will see over the next year whether the salmon industry has reacted fast enough. There is little doubt that environmental issues or perceived ones will take the fore as it appears that both government and public have become more aware of impacts during lockdown. Historically this sort of focus has made our planning and regulatory systems worse. Let’s face it the planning system in Scotland could hardly be much worse. So my guess is that this will be the worst effect of Coronavirus from now on as I hope that the market impact is now starting to ease as governments realise the damage they have done with the first lockdown. I am glad it is finally being acknowledged that Sweden did the right thing in not enforcing a lockdown, giving their public good information and asking them to behave responsibly.

The No Deal Brexit effect will be interesting to say the least.

It has potentially catastrophic impacts on exporters of perishable products. How bad will depend on how well the government has planned for this eventuality. If goods can move albeit with the pain of added paperwork and possible duties then food producers may be less badly impacted. However there is the potential for more positive impacts too. It is extremely likely that No Deal will result in a very weak pound which is always good news for exporters.

Would this be significant enough to offset the possible duties, who is to say? However it is worth remembering that we are not in a duty free world as

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“Coronavirus has been the joker in the pack, which has significantly changed the game in all markets

”

we stand at present and so we do understand a more bureaucratic world. I have no doubt at all that there will be pain but I hope there might be some degree of positive too.

Finally and probably the most significant is the potential independence referendum…

The UK faces two issues but Scotland looks like it is heading towards the full scenario of the three horsemen of the apocalypse. An independence referendum may well be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

I fear this more than anything else because it will put Scotland in a two stage limbo: The first stage waiting for the referendum and the second between any referendum and independence, should the vote be won. During these phases it is very hard to imagine anyone wanting to invest too heavily in their business in Scotland.

The problem is knowing what would happen to its relationship with its biggest market, the rest of the UK. Whatever your affiliation in this vote, nobody doubts who buys most of Scotland’s products. It’s England which is hardly surprising.

So it is conceivable that Scotland would face an even worse market disruptor than a No Deal Brexit.

Clearly I have a position on Independence as most do in Scotland but it is irrelevant to this discussion. The timing of this referendum has to be critical when so much money has been expended on Coronavirus and the economy so damaged by lockdown.

Any change as large as this will impact the economy for some considerable time. Just as it is true that certainty is the mother of investment, it is also demonstrably true that the instability caused by these three horsemen will have a deleterious effect on all rural business.

Finally and with a certain air of mischief, I read today that Shetland is looking to get independence from Scotland. I cannot see what arguments can be used against this if Scotland’s argument is historical. What was so nice to see was Shetland using salmon farming as one of its strongest assets! How nice it would be if this attitude could prevail globally! FF

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14/09/2020 15:53:00

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