The recent investigations into labor violations in shrimp and whitefish processing plants in India and China have raised concerns about certification standards groups. Many of the accused facilities hold certifications from organizations such as the Global Seafood Alliance (GSA), Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), or Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). While certification standards have faced criticism, Andrew Mallison, a former CEO of GSA and standards director at MSC, emphasized that certifications alone are not enough to ensure ethical labor practices.
“Take the audit for what it truly is: it’s a snapshot,” Mallison said. “They could have put on a fantastic show, but you’re gone tomorrow, and it all changes.”
Mallison highlighted the importance of buyers taking ownership of their responsibilities and not solely relying on certifications as a shield. He stressed the significance of building strong relationships with suppliers beyond certifications.
We also suggest that members check out the podcast episode on this topic, which dives into the topic further, and a similar episode
