These certifications represent a collection of significant milestones for Clearwater. The deep–water clam fishery is the first of its kind globally to obtain MSC certification, while the snow crab fishery is the first in North America. These species join the Clearwater family of MSC-certified offerings including Canadian sea scallops, Argentine scallops, Canadian coldwater shrimps and Eastern Canadian offshore lobster.
“The MSC certification of our Arctic surf clams and Nova Scotia snow crab further supports our leadership position and our aspiration to be the world’s most extraordinary, wild seafood company,” said Ian Smith, Clearwater CEO. “It gives me great pleasure to announce that Clearwater’s full line of core species offerings are now certified to the world-recognized gold standard in sustainable fisheries.”
The Arctic surf clam fishery operates year-round in Banquereau Bank off the coast of Nova Scotia and Grand Bank off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. Clearwater has invested in and developed the Arctic surf clam fishery since its inception in 1986 and is the sole supplier for this high-quality product. The primary markets for Arctic surf clams are Japan and China, with a secondary market in the US
The Nova Scotia snow crab fishery operates seasonally from early May to mid September on the eastern portion of the Scotian Shelf off Nova Scotia. The snow crab product is processed into clusters consisting of one side of the crab with legs and claw attached. It is primarily sold in the US
“We are extremely proud that these two fisheries have achieved MSC certification. It is a significant milestone for our company and for the international markets that we serve,” said Christine Penney, Vice President of Sustainability and Public Affairs for Clearwater. “Clearwater’s commitment to sustainable harvesting practices is now independently verified as we provide the widest selection of MSC-certified species of any seafood harvester worldwide.”
To obtain MSC certification, the Arctic surf clam and Nova Scotia snow crab fisheries underwent third-party evaluations by independent certifiers. The certifiers completed thorough assessments of both fisheries’ practices to meet the standards set out by the MSC for sustainability, environmental impact and good management practices.
With the certification, Clearwater’s Arctic surf clam and Nova Scotia snow crab products are now eligible to carry the blue MSC ecolabel in the marketplace. MSC-certified products have a growing audience in markets worldwide as a result of increased buyer and consumer interest for sustainable seafood products. The MSC logo is evidence the fishery meets strict environmental standards and the product originates from a sustainable and well-managed fishery.
“The MSC is committed to working with partners like Clearwater to transform the world's seafood markets and promote sustainable fishing practices. As such, I am delighted to welcome the Arctic surf clam and Nova Scotia snow crab fisheries to the program,” said Kerry Coughlin, Americas regional director for the MSC. “Market demand for internationally-recognized, third-party certified and labeled seafood is increasing around the world and we look forward to seeing products from these fisheries bear the distinctive MSC ecolabel.”
