Cornish Fish processors Ocean Fish of Roche have become one of only two Cornish companies to achieve the prestigious Seafish Higher Level Fish processor award.

Over the last five years Ocean Fish has invested in every area of their operation and now boasts a state of the art processing unit where quality and hygiene practices are strictly controlled. Ocean Fish have been trading since 1989. The company is one of the largest fish processors in Cornwall and it supplies trade customers and multiple retailers in the UK and throughout Europe.

The company also offers a complete net-to-plate' operation for Sardines and Herring having its own vessel, "Resolute" which also recently achieved an award for becoming one of the first two vessels in the County to achieve the Seafish Responsible Fishing Scheme.

Geoff Davies, General Manager said "we are delighted to have had the support and advice of Seafood Cornwall throughout the accreditation process. This award recognises the effort and commitment we have put into our business over the last few years and we are now in a strong position to increase our sales into new markets".

To qualify for the independently-accredited Award businesses are assessed against a wide array of parameters numbering over 250 in total. All aspects of the business are looked at from the reception area of the factory right through to the paperwork systems that support the production of their products.

Ocean Fish have been advised throughout the accreditation process by Seafood Cornwall, which has been set up with Objective One funding to help all sectors of the industry raise quality standards.

Nathan de Rozarieux, Project Director at Seafood Cornwall said "we are pleased to have been able to assist Ocean Fish in reaching the award standard and hope that this will not only help their business to continue to grow but also encourage more companies to come forward for the award"

Mickey Bacon, Quality Adviser for Seafood Cornwall explained that the Quality Processor Award can help satisfy customers of a company's ability to supply safe, quality products every time. "The Award will give customers the confidence they need to buy from an accredited company and at the same time highlight to potential new customers the commitment