Seafood Processor Launching Value-Added Mussel Development Project

The Provincial Government will assist Green Seafoods Limited with a project that will identify and implement quality enhancements and processing efficiencies at its plant in Winterton, Trinity Bay. Through the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program, $18,000 will be provided to support this project. As part of the project, the company will complete an operational review of its value-added mussel processing operations.

“It is very important that we continue to meet the standards of buyers to provide quality products to retain and expand markets for our province’s farmed mussel sector,” said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “We need to remain competitive in relation to other seafood producing regions in the global marketplace. Creating better products right here in Newfoundland and Labrador will help us do that.”

The company’s market analysis indicates that its product is well-received by customers and that it is of good quality. However, there are international competitors who provide a lower priced product. By increasing efficiencies on the processing side, the company believes it will be able to secure larger orders.

Through the project, Green Seafoods will evaluate current processes and procedures. They will also examine new ways to meet market specifications, as well as review existing equipment and advanced technologies.

“Green Seafood is a very valuable employer in the area and so I am very pleased with this investment," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Child, Youth and Family Services and MHA for Trinity - Bay de Verde. “Today's funding announcement will greatly assist with improving the efficiency of its mussel operations and thus make the company stronger in its diversification.”

As part of this project the company will also be implementing a revised quality assurance system and reviewing its documentation practices and procedures. This will assist with making its products more competitive in the global marketplace.

“Green Seafoods Limited is very committed to developing the aquaculture side of our business,” said Jennifer Green-Sheppard, marketing manager for the company. “We have to keep our plant modern and well-equipped to meet market demands and customer’s expectations.”

The Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program is an important component of the Fishing Industry Renewal Strategy. Since the launch of the program, the Provincial Government has invested approximately $6 million in 127 industry-driven projects. Investment in the program has leveraged an additional $20 million from the industry and its partners. These initiatives have generated a total of $26.9 million for fishing industry research and development. The Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program will continue to be funded with an investment of $6.6 million over three years as outlined in Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Our government is continuing its commitment to the aquaculture industry by funding this project,” said Minister Jackman. “Partnering with industry will continue to enhance fishing and aquaculture research and innovation in the province. Projects such as this ensure a positive future for both industries.”

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2011 08 05                                                                            11:20 a.m.