New software has been developed to digitally capture and convey key data from Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certified shrimp farms and feed sources, through processing, packaging and transport to retailers.
Through ASC’s Key Data Elements (KDE) project, the visibility of each product’s route to market can be improved so retailers obtain a higher level of programme assurance through increased farm origin and supply chain data transparency. As product is moved, the data is transferred digitally along the supply chain, from one company to the next, using a unique code.
“The data transmitted digitally ensures not only transparency and traceability across the supply chain but the ability to also attach other product information of value to the end buyer. This tool gives all stages in the supply chain a better understanding of the origin of the products they are purchasing,” ASC CEO Chris Ninnes said. “We will also be exploring in the future how this tool can bring additional value to our customers.”
Captured KDEs include the species’ scientific name, stock size and volume, source of broodstock, production method, country of origin and location of farm, movement and transportation documents, source and certification status of feed ingredients, processor type, date of freezing and sales documents.
Inclusion of hatchery name and stocking data means that tracking and verification measures begin prior to harvest, which differs from some other schemes, ASC said.
UK retailer Sainsbury’s and its supplier Lyons Seafoods Ltd are part of the KDE project during the initial phase. They are working closely with ASC to offer valuable feedback from the supply chain to help continuously improve the project.
Sainsbury’s Head of Aquaculture and Fisheries, Dave Parker, said digitalising its seafood supply chains would ensure it has the latest and most robust traceability systems in place as a foundation for its responsible sourcing policy.
“This helps us to build trust in seafood, deliver our customers’ expectations for 100% responsible fish and fully aligns with our plan for better: better for you, better for the planet and better for everyone,” he said.
According to ASC Senior Director for Technical Operations Ally Dingwall, having partners at every step of the chain is vital to the success of the project.
“The positive feedback received from processors and retailers is very encouraging and validates our role in helping them to gain trust in the supply chain and provide transparent reassurance to their customers about the integrity of shrimp products,” he said.
The project’s initial focus has been on shrimp in Vietnam. To date, the majority of companies in Vietnam and India that label their shrimp products with the ASC label have signed up, and the roll-out has begun in Bangladesh.
ASC also plans to run trials with tools such as farm management software.
