In a significant boost for the blue economy, GC Rieber VivoMega, a global leader in high-end Omega-3 concentrates, has successfully renewed its Friend of the Sea (FOS) certification.
The certification applies to several key species harvested under strict environmental oversight, including European Sardine, Pacific Chub Mackerel, European Anchovy, and Skipjack Tuna. As the nutraceutical industry faces increasing scrutiny over ocean health, GC Rieber VivoMega’s continued adherence to Friend of the Sea standards offers a transparent roadmap for how high-potency health products can coexist with vibrant marine ecosystems.
The Value of a “Quality Stamp”
For GC Rieber VivoMega, sustainability is not merely a moral choice but a strategic cornerstone. By sourcing from Friend of the Sea-approved fisheries that utilise selective purse-seine gear, the company ensures that its raw materials are traceable back to the vessel.
Snorre Glærum Strand, CEO of GC Rieber VivoMega, highlighted the importance of this milestone: “Being certified by Friend of the Sea serves as a quality stamp. It reinforces the standards we’ve upheld for years, with respect for the ocean and a clear focus on responsible growth. It gives our partners and customers confidence that we deliver quality products without compromising future resources.”
Meeting Stringent Global Requirements
To maintain the Friend of the Sea logo, GC Rieber VivoMega’s operations underwent rigorous auditing against the Friend of the Sea Sustainable Omega-3 criteria. These standards ensure that:
- Stocks are not overexploited: Species are sourced only from regions with healthy biomass levels.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: Gear used must have no impact on the seabed and maintain low discard rates.
- Social Accountability: The entire supply chain respects fair labour practices and human rights.
- Traceability: A robust chain of custody ensures that every drop of oil can be tracked from the coast to the final concentrate.
Economic Returns through Ethical Leadership
Beyond the environmental benefits, the company views certification as a key driver of market trust. In an official statement, the company noted that the Friend of the Sea logo enables access to global markets, where third-party verification is now a prerequisite.
“The certification serves as evidence of our practices,” the company stated. “It reinforces our brand position as a leader in sustainable Omega-3 production and contributes to a healthier planet, which is the most valuable return of all.”
Paolo Bray, Founder and Director of Friend of the Sea, praised the renewal:
“GC Rieber VivoMega continues to set an example for the industry. Their commitment to sourcing from well-managed fisheries demonstrates that corporate growth and marine conservation are not mutually exclusive. We are proud to support their journey in providing sustainable nutrition to the world.”
About Friend of the Sea
Friend of the Sea (FOS) is the leading international certification for sustainable seafood and Omega-3 products. As a project of the World Sustainability Organization (WSO), it promotes the protection of marine resources through rigorous audits and conservation initiatives. Website: www.friendofthesea.org
About GC Rieber VivoMega
GC Rieber VivoMega is a Norwegian-based producer of premium marine-derived Omega-3 concentrates. With production facilities in Norway, VivoMega offers one of the world’s widest selections of high-quality EPA/DHA combinations, known for their industry-leading purity and sensory profiles. Website: www.vivomega.com
