Organic Seafood?

It's not raised in America, but it is in Europe and we can get it here in Minneapolis. The U.K. Soil Association, using IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements) standards, is certifying as organic the feed for predator fish like salmon and trout. Currently we can only get Atlantic salmon that is fed a certified organic feed. IFOAM developed what it calls an "Interim Status for Organic Aquaculture" through the 1990s, which focuses on five main points:

Organic Feed. And what is organic feed? It is feed that has 60-70% fishmeal, with the remaining portions made from a cereal based agricultural component from certified organic farms. The fishmeal used in the feed must be derived from at least 50% wild fish caught for human consumption and the remaining fish product has to come from fish that are certified as sustainably managed by an independent agency.

Chemical and Antibiotic free. This means just what it says. All colorants used, like astaxathin, must come from natural sources.

A Wild Environment. To overcome this obstacle, the farm that we buy from is located off the coast of the Shetland Islands, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. The powerful Gulf Stream pushes a strong ocean current into the pens and maintains the ideal temperature.

Low Stock Density. Many farmed salmon live in crowded pens. IFOAM enforces adequate space for salmon and trout. To obtain organic status, the pens may not exceed 20 kilograms for every cubic meter.

Sensitive Husbandry. This is defined as freedom from malnutrition, thermal and other physical discomfort, injury, distress and unnecessary restrictions of behavior.

So far, the "Interim Status" farm we buy from has only received organic status on the feed they give to the salmon. (Since the U.K. Soil Association is not accredited by the USDA National Organic Program as a certifying body, our label will not read as "fed organically.") The Soil Association hopes to be able to give out a broadened organic title to the farm in the near future.

Next time you're at the Wedge, give the Atlantic Salmon a try and see if you can taste the difference of "organic seafood."