Canadian coldwater shrimp join the list of Argentine scallops as Clearwater Seafoods’ second MSC certified offering. It is said that the Marine Stewardship Council has certified the Canadian northern prawn fishery as a sustainable and well-managed fishery. Colin MacDonald, Clearwater CEO, express his satisfaction over the latest development. He said that not only for Clearwater but for Canada noting the fishery is the first Canadian fishery to achieve MSC certification.
He explained that Clearwater markets shrimp under their Clearwater Pride of St. Anthony brand as well as numerous retailer and food service private label brands sold around the globe. It is told that Clearwater sustainable harvesting practices extend beyond their Argentine scallops, which achieved MSC certification in 2006, and shrimp.
According to MacDonald the certification process was rigorous and lengthy but it is a testament to the efforts and passion of the company’s employees. He added that the company has long practiced and invested in new technologies that improve its sustainable harvesting methods, adding the globally recognized blue MSC eco-label to its products makes it easier for the consumer and chef to make responsible seafood choices.
The company has two other fisheries, Canadian sea scallops and offshore lobster, that have recently passed pre-assessment and entered into full certification. MacDonald told that these certificates create awareness among consumers about fisheries sustainability. Dennis Coates, Clearwater’s Business Development Manager for shrimp, and a native of Newfoundland, understands the significance of the certification for the discerning consumer as well as for the Newfoundland northern communities whose livelihoods are linked to the fishery.
