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.
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