Aquaculture Stewardship Farm Standard (ASC)

The ASC Farm Standard is the new, consolidated certification standard developed by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) for responsible aquaculture. It sets clear, science-based requirements for how farmed seafood is produced, with a focus on protecting the environment, safeguarding animal welfare and ensuring fair and safe working conditions.

Launched in 2025, the ASC Farm Standard replaces the ASC’s previous nine species-specific standards with a single, unified framework. It covers 12 key aquaculture species, including salmon, trout, shrimp, bivalves and tilapia, and introduces a more consistent and efficient approach to certification.

For producers new to ASC, the Farm Standard provides a globally recognised benchmark for sustainable aquaculture, increasingly required by retailers and supply chains. For those already certified, it marks an important transition, with a two-year implementation period allowing time to align with the new requirements.

Whether entering the ASC programme for the first time or transitioning from the previous standards, the new Farm Standard offers a clear, credible and commercially valuable pathway to demonstrate responsible aquaculture practices.

Find out more about the new Farm Standard.

Are you already certified to ASC and would like to transfer?

If you hold a valid accredited certificate of approval with another provider and you are considering making the move, transferring your ASC certification to LRQA is simple. We'll work with you to ensure your transfer is as smooth as possible.

Transfer to LRQA