History and Facts:
Florida's diverse and dynamic commercial fishing industry remains a leader in consistently providing fresh quality finfish and shellfish to satisfy growing consumer demand worldwide. The dockside value of Florida seafood currently ranks in the top 10 states, with dockside value of $208 million. Florida fishermen catch over 100 different varieties, including popular species such as grouper, snapper, blue crab, pink shrimp, spiny lobsters and Spanish mackerel. The Florida seafood industry is not standing still. New products and markets are being explored for the cannonball jellyfish, natural sponges, golden crab and other well-utilized species. Florida has more seafood processing plants than any other state. There are over 450 businesses producing value-added seafood for domestic and international consumption. Florida's seafood industry is dedicated to preserving the environment and conscientious use of this  natural resource. Providing consumers with the highest quality fresh and affordable seafood continues to be the   industry's top priority.

 

Nutritional Value:
Florida seafood products perfectly fit the general dietary recommendations of today's health-conscious consumer. Most varieties are rich in vitamins and minerals. These nutrients are essential for thousands of chemical reactions that occur in our bodies every second. Most seafood products are low in fat, cholesterol, sodium and calories. With consumers eating a healthier diet, Florida processors can capitalize on the exceptional nutritional value of seafood.

 

Aquaculture:
Florida's semitropical climate, long coastline and excellent water supplies in certain areas make it an ideal state for aquaculture. Indeed, Florida is already a leading U.S. producer of farm-raised ornamental fish, aquatic plants and an important producer of hard clams. The burgeoning U.S. and foreign markets for seafood, declining stocks of wild species, increasing regulation of commercial fisheries and the availability of suitable farmland should spur substantial investment in Florida aquaculture in the future.

 

More information about the Florida Seafood Industry can be found at http://www.fl-seafood.com



Water Street Seafood

PO Box 121 | Apalachicola, Florida  32320 | 850.653.8902

Toll Free: 800.831.4111 | FAX: 850.653.8130