Pilot Project Evaluates Snow Crab Production

With $9,214 from the Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities programme, Quinlan Brothers Limited will explore improving crab processing yield on a pilot basis, which could lead to a commercial trial.

“Our government recognises the importance of supporting research and evaluation in the fishing industry in order to remain competitive in the world marketplace,” said Darin King, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. “Evaluation from this project in particular will provide insight on how to garner more yield from snow crab. The entire industry can benefit from this research and I am pleased to see companies like Quinlan Brothers taking advantage of our Fisheries Technology and New Opportunities Programme in this regard.”

This pilot will see the Quinlan Brothers work to improve snow crab processing by evaluating a new convection cooking unit. The evaluation of the cooker’s use will compare results from the new forced-convection method with the current boil system in place. Factors such as yield and quality will be considered. If this research is successful, there is potential for a larger-scale second-phase evaluation in a commercial setting.

“I am very pleased to see our government supporting this project,” said Charlene Johnson, Minister of Child, Youth and Family Services and MHA for Trinity - Bay de Verde. “Fostering future growth and opportunity, as Quinlan Brothers are undertaking, is extremely important for the long-term viability of this industry. I sincerely look forward to the results of this innovative project.”

Robin Quinlan, Vice President of Quinlan Brothers Limited, is also pleased by the Provincial Government’s support.

“Pursuing new and innovative ways to process fish is extremely important to the province’s fishing industry, and to businesses such as ours,” said Mr Quinlan. “We have to continue to keep up with the demand for quality product from all over the world. We appreciate the Provincial Government’s assistance with this project and the advancements it’s funding.”