A Prince Rupert hatchery that grows, harvests and processes shellfish just found out that it’s a finalist for the prestigious B.C. Food and Beverage Association Awards. “Exciting news!” wrote Coastal Shellfish on Twitter, which is owned and run by the Metlakatla First Nation.
Coastal Shellfish is nominated in the award category of “sustainability.” This is given to a company that “shows leadership in sustainability and contributes to helping the environment.”
Coastal Shellfish certainly fits the criteria. It describes itself as combining “modern technology and aquaculture best practices with the traditional knowledge of the Coast Tsimshian people who have lived and harvested in this area for millennia.”
“Coastal Shellfish not only seeds, grows and harvests all of the shellfish in the waters around Prince Rupert, but processes everything locally as well to ensure only the best product leaves our facilities. Great Bear Scallops’ Oceanwise sustainability certification is a reflection of our commitment to protecting the environment we operate in while bringing fresh, safe seafood to customers around the world,” its website reads.
The other finalists in the sustainability category include Conagra Brands Canada and Susgrainable. The winner will be announced at a live virtual awards show on September 24.