Salmon from Bakkafrost – 10 Common Misconceptions
Discussions about farmed fish and shellfish frequently arise on various online platforms and in the media. These debates often mention salmon and present a range of viewpoints, many of which are inaccurate or lack supporting evidence.
At Bakkafrost, we raise salmon in the Faroe Islands and Scotland. In this document, we aim to address some of the most common misconceptions about salmon farming, providing accurate and factual information.
1. Faroese salmon is full of antibiotics
Bakkafrost has not used antibiotics in the Faroe Islands for over 20 years.
2. Salmon is treated exclusively with chemicals to combat sea lice
At Bakkafrost, we primarily use fresh water to treat salmon for sea lice, mimicking the natural cleaning process of wild salmon.
3. Salmon is unhealthy to eat
Salmon from Bakkafrost is exceptionally healthy, boasting high levels of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health, brain function, and overall well-being.
4. Farmed salmon does not taste good
While taste is subjective, most people enjoy salmon from Bakkafrost in various forms – fresh in sushi, pan-fried, oven-cooked, or smoked. Blind taste tests reveal that the majority of participants prefer farmed salmon over wild salmon.
5. Salmon farming pollutes the marine environment
Bakkafrost has implemented multiple measures to reduce environmental impact. Integrated cameras in farming pens to minimise feed waste, and we keep salmon in land based freshwater tanks for longer periods before moving them to ocean areas with stronger sea currents, which naturally clean seabed waste more effectively. Additionally, Bakkafrost is 100% ASC-certified in the Faroe Islands.
6. Salmon farming has a significant environmental footprint
Bakkafrost is committed to reducing CO₂ emissions by 50% by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Investments in renewable energy projects, including our biogas plant, support these goals.
7. Salmon are fed with poor-quality feed
Bakkafrost produces its own feed, free from GMOs, palm oil, and land-based animal proteins. Our feed contains a high proportion of marine ingredients, ensuring optimal nutrition for our salmon.
8. Salmon feed is made from unsustainable species of wild-caught fish
The marine ingredients in Bakkafrost’s feed come from sustainable sources, including fishmeal and fish oil produced in-house using locally caught fish and by-products from the mackerel and herring industries.
9. Salmon farming has poor animal welfare
Fish welfare is a big part of our culture at Bakkafrost. Our team of animal welfare and biology experts works continuously to enhance welfare standards.
10. Salmon are kept in small, cramped cages
Bakkafrost’s salmon are raised in large ocean pens that provide ample space for movement. The density of these pens is regulated by Faroese law, and Bakkafrost operates well below the permitted levels.
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Many people hesitate to buy or eat farmed fish and shellfish due to misconceptions and misinformation.
- But is there an alternative at all?
Alternatives like wild-caught fish are already overfished, while producing beef, pork, or chicken is far more resource-intensive. Salmon farming is significantly more sustainable, requiring fewer resources than other major protein industries.
Since salmon farming is a relatively new industry that is developing rapidly, challenges will inevitably arise from time to time. All new industries have learning curves, but improvements and solutions to various challenges are constantly being made, so in the long run our already good salmon farming will become even better.
Conclusion: Salmon from Bakkafrost are safe, healthy, and delicious – a sustainable and responsible choice for consumers.