A KERRY business has netted a top honour which gives it a competitive edge in international markets.

Eisc Geal Teo, Mountainfield Trout Farm, has achieved organic accreditation with Naturland – one of the world’s largest organic accreditation bodies – making it the only certified organic trout farm in the country.

This has been achieved after an introductory period of two years, during which the farm’s entire production was audited by the International Marketing Organisation (IMO) in Switzerland to the stringent standards laid down by the EC Directive on Organic Production.

In accordance with these standards, the fish are now produced at low densities in natural ponds, without the recourse to aeration.

The use of antibiotics is prohibited, as is the use of artificial additives in the feed used in the production of the trout which must be obtained from sustainable sources.

"The overall aim is to mirror, as much as possible, the growth of the fish in their natural habitat," said Mike Griffin, farm manager of Eisc Geal Teo.

This ideal leads to an improved product, which helps to enhance the reputation of Irish food as a world-beater in a highly competitive market, added Mr Griffin.

As well as supplying domestic demand through restaurants and retail outlets, the business is set to export organic trout to Continental Europe.

"We sell to restaurants and wholesalers not alone in Kerry but throughout Ireland and hope to start exporting to Germany soon," said the farm manager.

"There’s been a lot of interest so far and we’re very pleased with that."

The trout farm has passed through various owners since 1979 and in 1991, Mr Griffin and its present owners Jack O’Driscoll and Ivar Warrer-Hansen embarked on the route that has led to its gaining organic status.

Literally translating as Bright or Silvery Fish, Eisc Geal Teo also includes a division called Freshwater Experience in which customers can do a spot of dishing.

It also features a centre, wildfowl area, children’s facilities, café and Celtic walk which showcases ancient artefacts relating to the Corca Dhuibhne area such as ogham stones and a fulacht fia.