Mattilsynet, or the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, has released a list of aquaculture producers that will undergo audits in 2025. The inspections aim to ensure that farming practices comply with official regulations, focusing on risk management to improve animal health.
The audits will target Norway’s largest aquaculture producers, with selection based on company size, past performance, and previous inspection results. The goal is to improve animal welfare across the industry.
Bård Skjelstad, director of the NFSA, emphasised the importance of system-level improvements for the benefit of animal health. This year, the audits will focus on animal welfare during lice treatments, biosafety, and the welfare of cleaner fish.
The companies selected for auditing include Lingalax, Hofseth Seafarming, Alsaker Fjord Farm, Nova Sea, Sinkaberg Aquaculture, Cermaq, The Froy Group, Kvarøy Fish Farming, Firda Sjøfarmer, Erko Seafood, Måsøval, and Mowi Seawater Norway. Up to 15 percent of each company’s locations will be inspected to evaluate management systems and practices.
Skjelstad noted that the NFSA aims to ensure transparency and allow companies to make improvements before audits begin. The authority also plans to publish all audit reports to encourage shared learning within the industry.
