Cooke moves to expand Mediterranean bass and bream output

The move is designed to help the group to double its output of sea bass and sea bream.

Cooke said the development, Aquicultura Balear, is a significant milestone for the company and the aquaculture sector at a local, national and international levels.

An alevin hatchery focuses on the early stages of fish life. The new facilities feature innovative fish farming technologies which have been designed to optimise water use and energy efficiency. Cooke said they also enhance animal welfare, and improve biosecurity.

Alberto Morente, the Director of Hatchery Production at Aquicultura Balear added: “Aquaculture is one of the healthiest and most efficient ways to feed the population with minimal environmental impact, with the lowest water use and the lowest carbon footprint of any other animal protein production.

“This new centre represents Cooke Spain’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the production of healthy food.”

The new facility is also designed to strengthen the health and safety of its workers and enhance traceability and quality.

Régis Philippe, CEO of Cooke Spain, added: “With the opening of this new facility, we are celebrating the future of our company and our continued commitment to our pillars of sustainability, innovation, and responsibility.”

Cooke welcomed several special VIP guests to the hatchery opening including the President of the Government of the Balearic Islands, Margalida Prohens, the Minister of Agriculture Fisheries and the Natural Environment, Joan Simonet Pons, and the Mayor of Palma, Jaime Martínez Llabrés.