29 September 2008

SHETLAND’S largest salmon producer Grieg Seafood Hjaltland UK Ltd has won a top prize at the Highlands and Islands Food and Drinks Awards.

The firm picked up the Aquascot Environment Award at the ceremony in Inverness on Friday night.

Managing director of Grieg Seafood Hjaltland Group Michael Stark, said: “We are delighted to have won such a prestigious award. It is testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire workforce.

“As the producer of over a third of Shetland’s salmon, with over 30 sea sites in operation around the islands, we are constantly aware of our environmental responsibility. We rely on a clear and unpolluted environment to optimize production and protect the reputation of our salmon.

“The company has implemented the most rigorous environmental control schemes in the world and embraced initiatives to reduce packaging waste. We also continually review our procedures to ensure that we are doing all we can to protect the environment in which we operate.

The company currently is in the process of finalising a £3 million extension to their existing salmon procession plant in Lerwick.

Scottish Sea Farms with salmon farms and processing plants in the Highlands and in Shetland won the healthier food and drink award sponsored by Healthylivingaward and FINDS.