PORT GAINS MSC CHAIN OF CUSTODY STATUS, UNDERLINING COMMITMENT TO SEAFOOD VALUE

Presentation of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) chain of custody accreditation to the new fish market cements the port’s reputation as a centre of sustainable seafood excellence.

It follows attainment in April this year of the badge of honour of first ever Responsible Fishing Port from Seafish and the award in September last year of the British Reputation through Compliance Global Standards’ highest AA rating to the fish market.

Peterhead Port Authority quality manager Allison Sherrington said: “With key fisheries, and many of the vessels catching those species, attaining MSC certification, the next logical step was for the market here in Peterhead itself to gain chain of custody certification.

“It gives customers complete confidence that those species with the well-known white tick on blue logo landed to the market are sustainably caught and fully traceable.

“With the global demand for sustainable seafood rising the whole time, the certification strengthens the reputation of the market and individual businesses and opens up new business opportunities for all.

“On top of the Responsible Fishing Port and BRCGS AA rating, it signals that Peterhead is committed to value in the seafood supply chain.”

Paul Macintyre, development director for seafood certification specialists Lloyd’s Register, said: “Achieving certification to the MSC Chain of Custody Standard means Peterhead Port Authority can prove that the fish and seafood they handle has come from MSC certified sustainable fisheries and are eligible to carry the MSC logo on its packaging.

“The MSC blue logo is a clear sign to consumers that their chosen seafood originates from a well-managed fishery and all involved in the supply chain are committed to ensuring the traceability and provenance of the product. This is a great result for Peterhead Port Authority and well deserved.”