Benchmark clears regulatory milestone for sea lice treatment

Benchmark announced on Friday that the maximum residue limit (MRL) for its novel sea lice treatment ‘BMK08’ had been ratified under European law.

The AIM-traded firm said the MRL confirmed the safety of its sea lice solution for consumers, and represented a “significant” milestone in the regulatory approval process towards the expected commercial launch of BMK08 and ‘CleanTreat’ in Norway.

It said the commercial launch remained subject to the grant of a marketing authorisation in the country.

Benchmark described BMK08 and CleanTreat as a ‘transformational solution’ addressing the biggest biological challenge in salmon farming.

The MRL ratification was said to be the culmination of almost a decade of research and development, a rigorous trial programme and substantial capital investment by Benchmark.

“The ratification of the MRL is a further stepping stone towards commercialisation following the announcement of our first customer agreements for CleanTreat announced in March,” said chief executive officer Trond Williksen.

“Sea lice continues to be the biggest biological challenge for salmon producers and Benchmark's novel solution addresses this challenge in a sustainable way both in terms of animal welfare and environmental impact.”

At 1501 BST, shares in Benchmark Holdings were up 8.03% at 65.9p.