Sustainability

The biggest yield in the world

Norway's coastline is a natural home for cod. The fact that this has remained the case is testament to the hard work of all parties and organisations involved. Together, we're ensuring that sustainability is at the heart of Norway's entire seafood supply chain.

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In fact, sustainability has underpinned our entire cod fishing process since 1987, when we first introduced the discard ban. Today we’re seeing the rewards of this careful and pioneering approach.

Norwegian cod stocks

When you’re blessed with a gift, you have to protect it. The cold, clear waters that surround Norway are brimming with quality cod, but we have to ensure this precious resource continues. This is why we follow our sustainable practices, giving us an untold abundance of cod with plenty to share.

Barents sea cod

These stocks are the largest in the world, with a staggering biomass estimated to be in the region of 2.5 million tonnes.

Coastal cod

Though their numbers are difficult to measure, this species is now managed in adherence with a rehabilitation plan.

North Sea cod

North Sea cod is predominantly managed by the European Union, although we do play a cooperative management role over stock levels. Together we have adopted a harvesting regulation, based on theprecautionary principle.
Map: Norwegian cod stocks belongs to three different stocks: Barents sea cod, coastal cod, and North Sea cod.
Map with the Barents Sea highlighted
Map of Europe with the Norwegian coast highlighted
Map of Europe with the North Sea highlighted

For more than 20 years, Norway's fish stocks have been well managed, based on the best scientific advice available at the time. And we continually strive to be world leader's in sustainable fisheries management.

With a biomass estimated to be in the region of 2.5 million tonnes, the Barents Sea has the largest stock of cod in the world. Norways total quota for 2019 was 328,697 tonnes. 

An important objective of Norwegian fisheries management is to ensure that all fisheries are sustainable. Special measures are introduced for stocks that are not in a satisfactory condition. The aim is to rebuild them so that they can be sustainably harvested in the future.

Our relationship with the sea is a partnership – one that is crucial to the health of the nation economically, culturally and physically.

Learn more about our sustainable cod

Our pristine waters are the perfect ecosystem for cod to grow strong, yielding chunky and succulent flesh. Below are some suggestions for where to head next to learn more about why Norwegian cod is so sustainable.

Drying rack

Quotas

Discover how we maintain our thriving stock levels with strict limits on how much cod can be caught.
Two boats on the sea

The fishing fleet and catch methods

See for yourself how we harvest our cod, whether it’s fresh or frozen.
A boat on the sea

Endorsements and certifications

We know our cod is sustainable, but you don’t have to take our word for it.