Research into Enhanced Crab Processing Supported by Provincial Government

A research project led by the Seafood Processors of Newfoundland and Labrador and supported by the Provincial Government will test new crab processing equipment that could benefit operators throughout the province. The Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, announced funding through the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program today to help the Seafood Processors of Newfoundland and Labrador carry out research in partnership with Allen’s Fisheries.

“The Provincial Government is pleased to provide $16,850 to support this research, as it has the potential to make the crab processing sector more competitive by identifying equipment that is more efficient,” said Minister Dalley. “I commend the project leaders for taking on research that could benefit all crab processors in Newfoundland and Labrador, and I look forward to seeing their findings.”

BAADER, an international food processing machinery manufacturer, has developed an enhanced crab processing machine that boasts several potential benefits, including increased throughput, improved yield over the previous design, and the ability to handle larger crab. This project will test the performance of the equipment, and will involve training Allen’s Fisheries staff in how to use it and then monitoring production statistics. Once research is complete, the findings will be available to all provincial crab processors.

“If our research proves that this new technology reduces costs and increases production, we will strengthen the industry and generate greater value from our product,” said George Joyce, Executive Director of the Seafood Processors of Newfoundland and Labrador. “I thank the Provincial Government for supporting this project, and thank Allen’s Fisheries for carrying it out on behalf of their industry.”

Budget 2013: A Sound Plan, A Secure Future included a $2.2 million investment in Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Program, which has promoted innovation in our billion dollar fishing and aquaculture industry by assisting more than 200 research and development projects since 2008.

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2013 06 21             10:40 a.m.