The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) Responsible Feed Project is on course to be ready for use by the end of 2015. The project aims to ensure that feed for farmed fish is made from responsibly produced ingredients and manufactured according to best practices. The result will be a standard that will identify key criteria for responsible sourcing of the current main aquafeed ingredients: fish meal and -oil, plant ingredients, land animal ingredients and micro ingredients. General feed mill requirements will also be addressed.The standard will provide aquaculture feed manufacturers with clear criteria for the production of feed that can be supplied to certified farms.

The project is moving into its next phase, which includes drafting white papers and recruiting members for the Technical Working Groups (TWGs). At least six TWGs will be formed and are expected to be active within the next several weeks. These TWGs will consist of a maximum of 14 members each and will strive for an equal balance between industry and non-industry.
 
The following TWGs are proposed: TWG: Marine Ingredients (almost full)
TWG: Plant Ingredients
TWG: Land animal Ingredients
TWG: Micro Ingredients
TWG: Supply Chain
TWG: Feed mill requirements

Stakeholder input is vital to the success of this project and to make sure the feed industry\'s needs and concerns are addressed.

Other ways to get involved with this project include:
~ Commenting on the two forthcoming draft versions of the Standard;
~ There will be a pilot audit period during which the standard will be tested in feed mills;
~ As an observer during the Steering Committee meetings - your presence needs to be approved up front.
 
For more information and how to participate, please contact michiel.fransen@asc-aqua.org.