A smokehouse in Cumbria has become the first in the UK to receive Best Aquaculture Practice (BAP) accreditation.
Grants Oak Smoked, which opened more than 35 years ago, won the approval from the industry watchdog for their high levels of food safety, environmental sustainability and social accountability.
The owner of Grants Oak Smoked, Jonathan Brown, said: “At Grants we only use suppliers with the highest accredited environmental and aquaculture standards.”
“As the world’s reliance on farmed fish grows, it is vital everyone in the industry ensures we all follow the best possible practices. BAP is striving to ensure this happens.”
“To qualify for the accreditation, BAP examined every aspect of our business, from our premises, the fish we use and the environmental, food safety and working procedures we follow.”
“To get the accreditation confirms, once again, Grants is an industry leader. Not only do our products win numerous awards for their taste and quality, this accreditation proves they are produced to the highest possible standard.”
BAP is run by Global Aquaculture Alliance and is recognised for its rigorous process in awarding.
Other parts of the seafood chain have been awarded BAP status – including fish farms – but this is the first time a smokehouse has won it.
Grants Oak is family run and supplies salmon to major businesses and retailers across the UK.
Mr Brown added: “Getting BAP accreditation is another major confirmation of our family firm’s reputation for quality. It is also pays testament to our operation in Maryport, and the great work the 100 plus staff we employ there do on a daily basis.”
