Marine Stewardship Council Certifies Nordic Naturals® Processing Plant

Online, November 14, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Nordic Naturals® has received the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Chain of Custody certification for its processing plant in Bodø, Norway. The MSC is an international non-profit organization that seeks to contribute to the health of the world's oceans, in part, by working with its partners to transform the seafood market to a sustainable basis.

"Since our founding, Nordic Naturals has been committed to the health of our oceans and to sustainable fish oil manufacturing," said Joar Opheim, the company's CEO and Founder. "MSC Chain of Custody certification is an important step for the environment, for our company, and for the confidence of our customers. We are pleased to announce that our processing plant in Norway has passed this high bar."

MSC Chain of Custody certification is a comprehensive traceability program that recognizes and rewards good management and sustainable practices. It assures customers of the integrity of each step in the manufacturing process.

To obtain MSC Chain of Custody (CoC) certification, Nordic Naturals had to pass an independent, third-party audit conducted by an accredited certification body. Annual surveillance audits are also required to demonstrate that Nordic Naturals continues to comply with the CoC certification standards. The audits will review traceability systems, sourcing practices, and processing to assure that the facility meets all MSC standards. Such practices include:

• A randomly chosen batch reconciliation or traceability test to measure input and output of fish quantities as MSC fish are processed

• A management control system that is understood and applied by all staff

• Proper labeling and storage of MSC-certified fish

• Accurate and reliable record-keeping

"Nordic Naturals is excited to work with the MSC to help improve the viability of the oceans and fish stocks we all rely on for nutrition and good health," Opheim said.