Nova Austral is facing multiple investigations from Chilean fishery and environmental authorities after leaked emails in a press report allege that the company might have altered mortality rates and antibiotic usage in its Patagonia farms.
A report in El Mostrador, which it called “The Salmon Leaks,” detailed alleged manipulation of salmon mortality rates at the firm’s farms. The outlet claimed it has obtained emails from the company’s production manager which it alleges show efforts to manipulate its salmon mortality rates from reports delivered to the fishery and aquaculture service Sernapesca.
The report claims that the manipulation was coordinated in order to avoid fines and reputational risks facing the company and its products, and help position it as a green sustainable leader in the salmon market.
Nova Austral responded immediately with a statement filed with Olso’s Bors stock exchange, denying any wrongdoing, and saying that “based on an initial review of our internal control processes, we strongly disagree with the accusations published today. Nova Austral does not encourage a culture of deception. We will be conducting our own investigation and are fully committed to collaborating with the authorities.”
The report generated a quick response from authorities, with Sernapesca and Chile’s Environmental Superintendent (SMA) announcing investigations into the firm’s operations.
In a statement to El Mostrador, SMA Deputy Director of Aquaculture Marcela Lara warned that if true, these developments would amount to a serious breach of regulations and an attack against sustainability and transparency.
The Aquaculture Stewardship Council, which has certified Nova Austal’s production, also said that it was opening its own investigation into the charges through a local certification partner.
Nova Austal’s business plan includes farms in some of the most southernmost waters of Patagonia, which have been the subject of scrutiny from environmental groups and local communities.
