Understanding Seafood Labelling and Certification in Australia
What foodservice professionals and consumers need to know.
When it comes to seafood, trust starts with transparency.
At KB Seafood Co, we believe in empowering foodservice professionals and consumers to make informed choices by understanding exactly where their seafood comes from, how it’s sourced, and what our labels truly mean.
Australia maintains some of the most rigorous standards for seafood safety, quality, and sustainability. Below, we outline the key certifications and programs that ensure the seafood in your store meets the highest standards - from ocean to plate.
1. The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)
The Aquaculture Stewardship Council is an independent, international not-for-profit organisation that oversees the world’s leading certification and labelling program for responsible aquaculture.
ASC certification guarantees that farmed seafood is produced with respect for the environment, workers, and local communities.
When you see the ASC logo on KB Seafood Co products, it indicates that:
- The farm meets strict environmental and social standards
- Feed is responsibly sourced
- Animal welfare is prioritised
- Water quality and biodiversity are protected
Why it matters: The ASC label helps you confidently choose seafood that supports responsible aquaculture practices and global food security.
2. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)
The Marine Stewardship Council is a global not-for-profit organisation dedicated to ending overfishing and replenishing fish stocks for future generations.
The MSC Fisheries Standard is based on three core principles:
- Sustainable fish populations, ensuring fishing can continue indefinitely without depleting stocks.
- Minimising environmental harm, safeguarding ecosystems where seafood is caught.
- Effective fisheries management, enhancing traceability and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Why it matters: MSC-certified seafood gives assurance that your product comes from a fishery independently verified to be well-managed and sustainable.
3. The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO)
Responsible sourcing extends beyond just the product; it also includes packaging.
The Australian Packaging Covenant Organisation (APCO) is a co-regulatory, not-for-profit organisation that works with government and industry to reduce the environmental impact of packaging.
Through APCO membership, KB Seafood Co is part of a national movement to:
- Design sustainable packaging
- Increase recycling rates
- Minimise waste sent to landfill
- Advance Australia’s circular economy
Why it matters: Every piece of packaging contributes to keeping seafood fresh and protecting the environment. KB Seafood Co’s partnership with APCO helps us continuously improve packaging sustainability while ensuring product quality.
4. Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program
The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is a recognised certification by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) that covers every stage of the food supply chain – from farming and processing to distribution and retail.
KB Seafood Co’s SQF certification means our facilities and processes are audited to the highest international standards, ensuring:
- Rigorous food safety management systems
- Traceability across all operations
- Continuous improvement and risk prevention
Why it matters: SQF certification is your guarantee that every product leaving our facilities meets world-class food safety standards.
5. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
The HACCP system is recognised internationally as the most effective preventative method for managing food safety risks.
It identifies potential physical, chemical, and biological hazards during production and establishes control measures to prevent contamination before it occurs.
At KB Seafood Co, HACCP principles are embedded throughout our manufacturing and logistics processes - from receiving raw materials to delivering final products.
Why it matters: HACCP certification ensures your seafood is handled with the utmost care and safety at every stage.
6. Australian Trusted Trader (ATT)
The Australian Trusted Trader program recognises businesses with secure, compliant supply chains that meet Australian Border Force standards.
As a Trusted Trader, KB Seafood Co benefits from streamlined customs clearance and strengthened trade partnerships, meaning our customers enjoy:
- Faster and more reliable international supply
- Reduced risk of border delays
- Confidence in traceability and compliance
Why it matters: It’s another layer of assurance that your seafood is handled by a company recognised for its integrity and operational excellence.
Why These Labels Matter
Together, these certifications demonstrate KB Seafood Co’s ongoing commitment to quality, safety, and responsibility.
From responsible aquaculture to food safety and packaging innovation, each label on our products represents a verified standard.
When foodservice professionals and consumers choose KB Seafood Co, they’re choosing a company committed to doing things the right way - for people, the planet, and future generations of seafood lovers.