IFFO releases annual report showcasing focus on data and scientific evidence

IFFO has released its second Annual Report. A key area highlighted throughout the report is IFFO’s increased investment and focus on data gathering and technical reports, with the aim of effectively communicating the strategic and vital role of marine ingredients. IFFO project work has focused on the use of antioxidants and antioxidant stabilization, as well as the management of forage fish stocks, raw material supply, environmental impacts relative to other feed ingredients, and co-sponsorship of an international scientific conference on small pelagic fish stocks.

May 11, 2018

A key area highlighted throughout this report is IFFO’s increased investment and focus on data gathering and technical reports, with the aim of effectively communicating the strategic and vital role of marine ingredients.

In order to increase and speed up technical projects, the IFFO Board developed a new process for commissioning projects and increased investments. Examples of this evidence-based approach include IFFO’s projects on the use of antioxidants, which are essential to the viability of the fishmeal sector as they are required to stabilize and protect fishmeal during transportation. IFFO, together with a number of other funders, contributed to the additional safety studies on ethoxyquin, which are an essential component of the reauthorization process in the EU. IFFO also completed project trials on antioxidant stabilization with the kind support of some of IFFO’s members. The data from the trials contributed to work with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and the amendment of the shipping codes.

Other important project work has looked at the management of forage fish stocks, raw material supply, environmental impacts relative to other feed ingredients, and co-sponsorship of an international scientific conference on small pelagic fish stocks.

Another area of focus has been IFFO’s market research service, which continues to grow largely thanks to information gathered from members who represent between 75% and 80% of total annual trade worldwide. On top of this, IFFO has continued to grow its extensive network of international bodies and government departments to regularly exchange market data. These include UN FAO, USA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the China Fishery Society and a newly agreed connection with the Faroese Fishery Department. This network has resulted in production and/or trade annual data being gathered for 110 countries; monthly data for 40 countries and weekly data for around 10 countries.

“IFFO has been working hard over the past year to build our on existing data and identify gaps to ensure that we continue to effectively communicate the vital importance of marine ingredients,\" stated Andrew Mallison, IFFO’s Director General. \"This report succinctly draws together all our work and I am proud of our pivotal role that we hold in the industry.”

Click here to download the report