Albert Heijn is looking to set a new standard for sustainable seafood in the Netherlands by being the first Dutch retailer to introduce farmed shrimp that are raised with significantly higher welfare standards and have a low marine footprint. The product is the culmination of several years of collaboration between multiple supply chain partners.
Albert Heijn has started selling sustainably farmed shrimp supplied by a value chain consortium that includes shrimp importer Klaas Puul, feed manufacturer Skretting, innovative feed ingredient providers Veramaris and Protix, and Cofimar, an Ecuador-based farm.
The consortium has successfully developed innovative shrimp feed, crafted by Skretting Ecuador for Cofimar. This feed incorporates alternative ingredients such as Veramaris algal oil, a rich source of essential omega-3 EPA & DHA, and Protix insect meal, significantly reducing the marine footprint of the feed formulation.
These shrimp are also Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) -certified and raised in accordance with stringent welfare practices, ensuring both environmental and social responsibility throughout the farming process.
“Collaborating with Veramaris, Skretting, Klaas Puul, Cofimar and Protix not only advances sustainable aquaculture but also delivers healthier and more sustainable choices to our customers,” Albert Heijn Quality Manager for Meat, Seafood, and Cheese Emiel Beekwilders said.
The consortium is also looking to establish partnerships with other retailers to widen the availability of sustainable shrimp and expand these sustainable practices across the industry.
