Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, has announced C$39,000 to help the company research the production and marketing requirements, and the market potential, of producing half-shell frozen scallops.
“Promoting innovation is vital to supporting a globally-competitive fishery. This government’s commitment of C$39,000 will help Northern Lights Seafood research a new half-shell frozen scallop product that has the potential to generate new economic activity that will benefit the company, its workers and the region,” said Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
A wild-harvested half-shelf frozen scallop has never been produced in the province previously, making the product offering unique among Newfoundland and Labrador processors. The scallops will be sourced from harvesters fishing primarily in the Strait of Belle Isle.
“Exploring new products plays an important role in growing our customer base, increasing revenue, and strengthening our ability to compete at home and around the world. I thank the Provincial Government for its support, and look forward to pursuing this new opportunity,” said Andy Schnare, President, Northern Lights Seafood.
Should the new product prove viable, early estimates indicate the company could purchase up to 400,000 pounds of scallops to support production, which in turn could create up to 10-12 weeks of additional employment for as many as 30 plant workers.
