The Canadian Shellfish Farming Sector
It’s time to modernize Canada’s federal shellfish management program
We are calling on the Federal government to double funding for Canada’s shellfish management program in Budget 2024 to support modernization.
No. 1 Obstacle to Prosperity of Shellfish Farming
Shellfish farmers are enduring impossibly long site approvals under the current federal food management program, the Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program (CSSP). Farmers are vulnerable to this under-funded and constrained program. Uncertainty makes it impossible to sustain the production levels needed to maintain staffing resources and to remain viable. This is threatening the livelihoods of these farmers and sustainable, affordable food production here in Canada.
The State of Canada’s Shellfish Management Program
The Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program (CSSP) is a federal food safety program jointly administered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
Stagnant program funding for twenty years is a leading impediment to growth in the farm-raised shellfish sector in Canada
Inadequate staffing levels delays testing and results leaving farms closed for extended periods and halts new site access without warrant
Federal management system is dated and holding back growth
Snapshot of Canada’s Shellfish Farming Sector
• Canadian shellfish is produced by more than 2,600 farms in Canada, with production of 40,350 tonnes valued at $125 million.
• Prince Edward Island is the largest producer, followed by British Columbia, Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
• The largest species is Oysters (47% of total sector), followed by Mussels (37%), Clams (8%), Other (7%).
• On the global stage Canada is a major player in the shellfish sector. Canada has consistently placed in the Top Ten over the past decade.
Where Shellfish Grow Communities Prosper
Shellfish farming creates jobs, supports resilient working waterfronts and stable and vibrant coastal communities.
Where Shellfish Grow Environments Thrive
Growing oysters, mussels, clams can provide an array of ecosystem benefits, including positive habitat and biodiversity contributions.
Where Shellfish Grow Local, Nutritious Food Grows
Nutritiously dense, shellfish are excellent sources of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and micronutrients such as iodine, magnesium, and selenium.
Investment to Modernize Canada’s Shellfish Management Program
Unleash the potential of Canada’s shellfish farming sector for:
Job creation in Canada’s coastal and rural communities
Sustainable food production with positive environmental impacts
Local, nutritious Canadian food production
