Icewater Seafoods earns world-class Food Safety Certification ahead of cod season
Icewater Seafoods has achieved certification under the Brand Reputation through Compliance Global Standards (BRCGS) program, commonly known as BRC certification, earning an A Grade in its first-ever audit.
The achievement is a significant milestone for the family-owned company and recognizes the work of the hundreds of employees who help make Icewater one of the world’s leading cod processors. Awarded following an independent third-party audit of the company’s food safety, quality, traceability, and operational systems, BRCGS certification is recognized globally and required by many of the world’s largest retailers and food companies.
“This achievement is a testament to the professionalism, expertise, and dedication of our entire team,” said Alberto Wareham, President and CEO of Icewater Seafoods. “I’ve often said that the cod expertise of our employees is the envy of the world, and this certification is further proof of that.
“Achieving an A Grade in our first BRCGS audit demonstrates that the skill, knowledge, and commitment of our people can stand alongside the best seafood operations anywhere in the world. This recognition belongs to every employee who contributes to our success.”
Wareham said the certification comes at a particularly important time for both Icewater and Newfoundland and Labrador’s cod industry.
“With the iconic Northern cod stock healthy and growing, we are ensuring Icewater is positioned to maximize opportunities for our employees, local inshore and offshore harvesters, and our province,” he said. “As a family-owned company rooted in Arnold’s Cove, we take tremendous pride in creating good jobs and producing a product that represents Newfoundland and Labrador on the world stage. This achievement shows that world-class standards are being delivered every day right here in our community.”
The certification also comes at an important moment in the fishery’s sustainability journey. Earlier this spring, Northern cod entered the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) assessment process. Widely recognized as the global benchmark for sustainable wild-capture fisheries, MSC certification would further strengthen the market position of Newfoundland and Labrador cod and the communities that depend on it.
Icewater Seafoods is one of only a small number of seafood processors worldwide approved to supply premium retailer Marks & Spencer and exports Newfoundland and Labrador cod products to customers around the globe.
The company employs 280 people on a near year-round basis and will peak at 320 people this summer. Icewater offers some of the highest wages in the Atlantic Canadian seafood processing industry, and continues to invest in its facility and operations to remain competitive in global markets.
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