The geoduck clam is currently the only ASC-certified of its kind in the world.
ASC
Taylor Shellfish Farms has been awarded the certification of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), becoming the first and only bivalve farm in the United States to receive this distinction.
Farmed bivalves, such as oysters, mussels, and clams, are a strong candidate to become a sustainable food source because they require no additional feed, do not need freshwater, use very little land, and naturally filter the water as they grow.
"Oysters can lead the way as a climate-friendly protein, and ASC certification reinforces the company's commitment to science, transparency, and the long-term health of our waters and coastal communities," said Wes Taylor, Chief Operating Officer of Taylor Shellfish Farms.
This ASC certification covers seven species: Olympia oyster, Kumamoto oyster, Eastern oyster, Pacific oyster, Mediterranean mussel, Manila clam, and geoduck clam. The latter is currently the only ASC-certified geoduck in the world.
"Research shows that today's consumers are increasingly aware of sustainability and are looking for verifiable assurances about the origin of their food. In addition, Americans continue to prioritize locally sourced seafood, so they can now choose shellfish that meet both criteria," noted Erica Tardiff, Market Development Manager at the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC).
The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has completed the fifth year of its campaign in North America, Sea Green. Be Green, which aims to increase recognition of the ASC label among consumers and businesses.
Likewise, the second edition of the Oyster Educators Summit, organized by the Oyster Master Guild, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), and Taylor Shellfish Farms, brings together chefs, retailers, and industry leaders to share modern shellfish farming practices.
According to Ekone, Taylor's brand, specializing in canned seafood, has seen a 30% year-over-year increase. For this reason, the company plans to incorporate the ASC sea green label on its packaging to strengthen its market positioning.
