An Ode to Excellent Cod

The people of Norway have a rich heritage of cod fishing and experience in farming high-quality salmon, well recognized around the world. In 2019, that led to the founding of Ode, a company that is leading a new era in aquaculture.  

Ode’s unique Atlantic cod is a premium product that is farmed in its natural habitat—the deep fjords of Norway—in a fully integrated chain, from hatchery to harvesting. Their slogan, "Ode to Excellence," reflects dedication to quality, integrity, and craftsmanship in every part of the operation.  

Recently, the demand for cod has increased the pressure on Iceland, which is responsible for 40% of the world’s cod catch. Ode recognized the opportunity to supplement the global supply with sustainably farmed cod and reimagine the industry.  

Cod at the Center 

There is significant investment in the hatchery, which Ode considers to be the most important part of the operation. Ode is especially focused on innovations that positively impact the biology and health of the fish, including a custom-developed feed that contains marine ingredients. 

Their team is predominantly made up of highly specialized scientists on staff who monitor the cod at every stage of growth. Ode operates with a "cod at the center" mentality, which means that everything they do considers what is right for the cod, and if it will make a better cod. No corners are cut—from roe to packaging; Ode manages every detail for complete quality control and an impeccable end product.  

Roe is hatched and grown in onshore tanks, then the cod are moved to low-density sea pens with plenty of space to swim. Pen sites are selected for optimal conditions and dropped deep into the cold waters of the fjord, where the stable temperatures help them thrive.  All locations are thoroughly tested and achieve top scores on seabed conditions, and Ode carries out B and C surveys, as well as shoreline assessments, at every site. 

Ode is Global GAP certified, and ASC is using Ode’s practices to define the standards for farming cod. With an emphasis on renewable energy, a transition to an electric fleet, and the use of solar power on the sea pens to power light and energy needs, Ode is committed to the future.   

Taste & Texture  

With its snow-white color, firm texture, and pure, delicate taste, Ode cod embodies the highest standards of quality and sustainability.  

Farmed cod has a cleaner, brighter flavor than wild, and its naturally lean texture cooks fast at lower temperatures, while remaining flaky and moist.  

Because Ode cod has a thicker, rounder body, the belly side of the fillet is thicker, and the full fillet can be utilized. The skin is thinner than wild cod, and it can be left on, scored, and seared to a crisp. Ode's unique texture and particularly mild, clean flavor make it super versatile in any raw application: ceviche, crudo, tiradito, carpaccio, sashimi, poke, and chirashi. Fresh Ode cod is available year-round, as whole fish (H&G), skin-on/skin-off fillets, and skin-on/skin-off portions.  

In 2024, Ode cod was featured in the winning platter at the World Sushi Cup in Tokyo—a competition for non-Japanese chefs to determine the world’s best foreign sushi chef. Chef Vincent Broggi took first place in all three main categories, and some of his entries in the competition featured Ode’s cod. It was the first time Atlantic cod had been used in that way.