The deaths represent a mortality rate of 16.7 per cent, a record high and a number that has gradually risen over the years.
The salmon succumb to illnesses of the pancreas, gills or heart, or to injuries suffered during the removal of sea lice parasites. In order to maintain its strong reputation, only salmon of ordinary or superior quality is authorised for export. The Norwegian Seafood Federation – representing the biggest fish farming companies, which are most often singled out over quality issues – insisted that it is addressing the matter but said more time is needed.“So it’s very difficult to see immediate results today, even though we have launched a series of initiatives and measures.”