The cod is worshiped and trusted in all corners of the world. A healthy globetrotter that has fed many mouths and shaped many food cultures.
Ode is a fully integrated seafood company that was founded in 2019, aiming to revolutionize the whitefish market. Our vision is to become a leading global food supplier of high-quality Norwegian cod, produced based on sustainable principles. Our goal is to contribute to exporting more high protein food sources to a continuously growing population.
For over 20 years, Norway has been breeding cod for aquaculture. This effort has led to the development of unique breeding programs with high expertise and knowledge. Additionally, we benefit from natural advantages, such as a coastline and fjords tailored to the natural habitat of cod, making Norway an ideal location for cod farming. Through our ongoing production, we have demonstrated that the conditions are right for successful industrial production of farmed cod. This will contribute to increased value creation in Norway while addressing and focusing on some of the significant challenges the world faces.
By 2050, it is estimated that the world's protein consumption will be twice as high as in 2015, according to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization). Protein production currently accounts for a quarter (25 %) of today's greenhouse gas emissions. If this doubles by 2050 without a change in how food is produced, it will represent half of the emissions. Farming is a highly efficient method for producing food that is rich in protein and has a low carbon footprint. Therefore, we consider farming as a central approach to meeting the growing need for protein and reducing the environmental footprint.
An “ode” is from ancient Greek, a lyrical poem used to praise or celebrate someone or something. Through our name, we pay tribute to the coast, the sea, the local community, the people, and to the cod.
Ode is owned by the De Clerq family and the two founders Ola Kvalheim and Tor Olav Seim. Together, the owners have a vision to develop Ode into a leading seafood company and to be an important contributor to activity and value creation along the Norwegian Coast.
At Ode, we have a team of skilled professionals from various fields. Our diverse team excels in various parts of our work. Our dedicated individuals are involved in a range of tasks, from working at our head office, managing day-to-day operations at our aquaculture sites, to working at our land-based facilities. Every team member is essential to our success. We are always on the lookout for new people to join us and contribute to enhancing our business even further. If you are interested in becoming a part of Ode, you can view our vacancies here {LINK WHEN READY}.
Cod has been a significantly valuable resource for the development of coastal communities along the Norwegian coast through traditional fishing. The current market situation shows a large gap between demand and supply of cod, due to decreasing quotas for wild-caught cod and variations in seasonal availability. With preconditions such as genetics and technology in place, aquaculture of cod represents an opportunity to create an entirely new market for Norwegian whitefish, with a stable volume of fresh cod throughout the year.
The journey starts with the cod as roe or fry, progressing through a hatchery. After this early stage, the juvenile transitions to a grow-out facility, followed by relocation to sea facilities. Here, the fish are cared for in ideal natural conditions and nourished with specially formulated feed. Post growth, the fish proceed to a processing plant, getting ready for export to international markets, restaurants, and supermarkets. Significant focus is placed on control and quality at every stage to guarantee top quality cod products.
Cod is an excellent choice for a balanced and nutritious meal, being a source both high in protein and with low fat content. It is also rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3, vitamin B and D, as well as minerals like iodine and selenium, which are vital for the body. Regular consumption of fish like cod can be beneficial for the cardiovascular system, contribute to improved brain function, and promote overall health and well-being.
Throughout the production cycle, several preventive measures are implemented to ensure optimal biological conditions and fish welfare. All the fish go through screening and vaccination to reduce the risk of disease occurrence and transmission. In addition to this, measures such as lower fish density in the pens, proper feed composition, monitoring of environmental conditions, minimizing factors that can cause stress and ensuring training of our staff are all maintained.
In partnership with Skretting, we continuously strive to optimize our cod feed. Skretting, a leader in sustainable aquaculture solutions, is engaged in numerous research and development projects with over 60 global partners. Their commitment to innovation in the industry was acknowledged in 2023 when they were recognized by PWC as one of the most sustainable companies along the Norwegian coast.
The feed contains everything the cod needs for optimal growth - protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Skretting imposes strict requirements on all its suppliers, ensuring that all the marine ingredients are certified and have full traceability.
Cod farming is a highly regulated industry, with strict requirements for every part of the value chain. The impact from a cod farming site must be environmentally sustainable to be approved. Risk-reducing measures are implemented in the production of farmed cod. These, along with breeding efforts, increased knowledge and improved operational procedures make it possible to conduct cod farming within the boundaries set by the authorities.
In a world with a constantly growing population, the demand for sustainable food with protein content is high. As a producer of farmed cod, Ode holds a position where we contribute to increased seafood production. We actively work to minimize our footprint on both the environment and climate. In terms of sustainability efforts, we are among other proud of:
Cod farming creates new jobs and contributes to local benefits in Norway. Ode wants to participate actively in communities where we operate. We utilize local suppliers and have an active strategy to contribute to the local environment around our sites.
Ode is audited according to the GLOBAL G.A.P standard. It is an international standard certifying that the food is produced on sustainable principles that consider animal welfare and HSE (Health, Safety and Environment).
