FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions and answers about Faroese Salmon Farming
1. Are antibiotics used in Faroese salmon farming?
No. Antibiotics have not been used in Faroese salmon farming for more than 20 years. Effective disease prevention, vaccination and strict veterinary controls have played a key role in this development.
2. Are GMOs used in Faroese salmon farming?
No. The salmon farmed in the Faroe Islands is not genetically modified, and GMO ingredients are not used in feed for Faroese farmed salmon.
3. What do Faroese farmed salmon eat?
Salmon are fed specially formulated feed that meets their nutritional needs. Feed used in the Faroe Islands has a high content of marine ingredients and protein, and also contains fats, vitamins, minerals and plant-based ingredients that are important for the health and growth of the fish.
4. Why are the Faroe Islands well suited for salmon farming?
The Faroe Islands offer exceptionally favourable natural conditions for salmon farming. The clean, cool North Atlantic waters, high water quality and strong natural water exchange in the fjords provide excellent conditions for salmon health, welfare and growth
5. How is salmon farmed in the Faroe Islands?
Salmon begin their lives in freshwater facilities on land. When they have developed into smolt and are ready to live in seawater, they are transferred to sea pens. There they grow until they are ready to be harvested. In recent years, the Faroese aquaculture industry has invested significantly in producing larger smolt on land, reducing the time the salmon spend at sea.
6. Is Faroese salmon farming subject to strict regulations?
Yes. Faroese salmon farming is subject to strict regulatory and monitoring requirements covering the environment, fish health and animal welfare. Fish farms require environmental permits, and both their environmental impact and the health and welfare of the fish are regularly monitored.
7. What is done to control sea lice?
Sea lice are naturally occurring parasites and one of the main challenges in salmon farming. Sea lice levels are regularly monitored, and clear regulations require farmers to take action if lice levels become too high. The industry uses both preventive measures and different treatment methods to keep sea lice levels under control.
8. How important is aquaculture to the Faroese economy?
Aquaculture is one of the Faroe Islands’ largest export industries. Salmon accounts for close to half of total Faroese goods exports, and the industry provides jobs and generates significant economic activity throughout the country.
