IN salmon processing, traditionally, only the prime fillet is used while the remaining parts go to waste. However, in New Zealand, a sustainable salmon-farming company uses processes to ensure almost the entire fish is used, cutting its carbon footprint by 90 per cent.
In 2016, New Zealand King Salmon (NZKS) launched pet food brand Omega Plus which follows a process that uses all parts of the fish from nose to tail. Offcuts that are human-grade are used to produce wet and dry pet food, while fins and tails are dried and become treats.
“Waste is unacceptable in today’s world,” said Paul McIntyre, sustainability and stakeholder manager at New Zealand King Salmon.
“Waste is a lost opportunity, which is why we have become the first seafood organisation in New Zealand to adopt nose-to-tail utilisation by transforming raw materials considered as waste into highly nutritious food for pets.”
The salmon is sustainability farmed in the Marlborough Sounds. High in protein, rich in omega-3 and omega-6, vitamins, and minerals, it offers a balanced diet for pets. It also has a lower carbon footprint than non-marine proteins such as chicken, beef or pork.
According to the company, customers who purchase pet food from a local brand like Omega Plus help reduce their carbon footprint compared to buying an imported brand, which goes through a longer supply chain.
“Supporting local, shopping sustainably and reducing your environmental impact is an excellent choice for you, your four-legged friends and our planet,” said Simon Thomas, divisional manager, Omega.
