The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has announced the winners of the 2025 Australian Sustainable Seafood Awards.
“Australians care deeply about making food choices that are better for the environment, and the work of these award winners reflects that growing demand.,"ASC Market Development Manager for Australia and New Zealand Duncan Leadbitter said. "The commitment from brands and retailers to source and sell ASC-certified food is crucial to ensuring sustainable fishing and responsible aquaculture practices.”
Batavia, Illinois-based supermarket chain ALDI won big, taking home three awards: Best Responsible Seafood Retialer, Aquaculture Champion, and Best Responsible Seafood Trader.
“ALDI is leading the charge when it comes to providing responsibly sourced products at an affordable and accessible price point," Leadbitter said.
"[The] wins are a fantastic endorsement of the work ALDI is doing to make sustainable seafood choices more accessible for all Australians," ALDI National Sustainability Director Daniel Baker said in a statement. “To win three Aquaculture Stewardship Council awards, including the Best Responsible Retailer for the third year in a row, reflects the effort and commitment of our team to work with globally recognised certification bodies to source seafood products responsibly. We’re proud to offer everyday value on our fish and seafood products without compromising on taste, quality or the planet. This means ALDI customers can be confident they’re making a good difference every time they shop with us.”
Yumbah Aquaculture, the nation’s largest vertically integrated shellfish company, was awarded the Responsible Seafood Producer award in recognition of its sustainable approach and work with local and First Nations communities.
“Yumbah understands that prioritising sustainability will help us achieve our vision, and will help to drive economic growth, stronger communities and a healthier ocean ecosystem for the long term," Yumbah CEO David Wood said. "We are honoured to be recognised for our enduring commitment to sustainable farming practices across our farms in Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. It’s a testament to the hard work and stewardship of our people, always going above and beyond to preserve and cultivate the environment."
Yumbah researcher Rebecca Pedler, a PhD candidate at Flinders University in Adelaide, was named co-winner of the Young Person in Aquaculture award, with Archie Turvey, in recognition of her work to mitigate the effects of climate change on the aquaculture industry.
Wood commended Pedler’s “dedication to research, as well as her commitment to continuous learning and growth within the industry.”
Best New Responsible Seafood Product went to value-added seafood company I & J, for its Sweet Chilli Fish Tenders, while Best Responsible Seafood Product went to KB Seafood Company’s Sea Creature Fish Bites. I & J was also honored with the Best Responsible Seafood Brand award.
