Veramaris boosts algae oil production by 61 percent while cutting emissions
New report signals that algae oil can be produced at scale with lower environmental impact, offering a stable alternative to fish oil
Veramaris increased production of its algae oil by 61 percent in 2024 while reducing its absolute greenhouse gas emissions by 5.6 percent, according to its newly released Sustainable Development Report.
The company, which produces marine algal oil as a substitute for fish-based omega-3s in aquafeed, says the results keep it on track to meet its Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) commitments.
“In 2024, we operated at full capacity for the first time, proving that aquaculture can expand responsibly – without deepening its reliance on wild fish stocks for essential long-chain omega-3s,” said Veramaris CEO Gertjan de Koning.
The report underscores the potential for climate-aligned growth in the aquaculture supply chain, though Veramaris notes that continued scale-up of algae oil will depend on greater uptake from feed producers and seafood companies.
The report also highlights broader sustainability concerns beyond greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Aquaculture remains heavily dependent on wild-caught forage fish to supply essential omega-3s – a reliance that’s becoming increasingly fragile. Climate-driven disruptions to global fisheries and ongoing volatility in fish oil prices have created an uncertain market.
However, Veramaris’ algae-based alternative has emerged as a stable and scalable option, helping to fill the supply gap with a consistent source of omega-3s that doesn’t draw from marine ecosystems.
“Our algae oil has moved from an alternative to a mainstream ingredient, and our goal is to secure its long-term place in aquafeed formulations to support the sustainable growth of the industry,” said de Koning. “Only with further commitment from the entire value chain can we realize our vision of growth that sustains the future and we’re working with our partners to achieve this.”
Download the full report here.
Now that you've reached the end of the article ...
… please consider supporting GSA’s mission to advance responsible seafood practices through education, advocacy and third-party assurances. The Advocate aims to document the evolution of responsible seafood practices and share the expansive knowledge of our vast network of contributors.
By becoming a Global Seafood Alliance member, you’re ensuring that all of the pre-competitive work we do through member benefits, resources and events can continue. Individual membership costs just $50 a year.
Not a GSA member? Join us.
Author
Related Posts
Aquafeeds
Canadian salmon farmer to test algal oil in its feed
Cermaq Canada is testing a new salmon feed that incorporates Veramaris algal oil, aiming to reduce reliance on marine fish oils.
Aquafeeds
Dutch companies keen on new shrimp feed that includes more insects and algae
Skretting Ecuador will produce a new shrimp feed that will partly replace two ingredients – fishmeal and fish oil – with insects and algae.
Aquafeeds
Can corn fuel aquaculture’s growth? Veramaris says yes
The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids to human health are well known. Fish need them too. To supplement current supplies from wild-caught fish, one innovative venture is turning to the corn fields of Nebraska – yes, Nebraska – for answers.
Aquafeeds
Can microalgae treat wastewater and be a valuable alternative fish feed ingredient?
Stian Borg-Stoveland of the University of Agder says Norway’s priority when developing salmon feed is alternative ingredients for oils and proteins.