Maine’s Sustainable Seafood Journey: Ocean to Table
Maine’s ocean waters are abundant with a variety of seafood, making it a treasure trove for seafood lovers. Notably, Maine is renowned for its lobsters, which are considered some of the finest in the world. Alongside lobsters, clams, cod, mackerel, and a variety of shellfish are consistently harvested. This blog spotlights seafood: sustainable practices in the industry, nutritional benefits, local sources, and recipes for preparation, concluding with tips on what you may do to enhance the sustainability of our precious and shared water supply. Read on to explore this important piece of Maine’s agriculture.
Sustainable Seafood Practices
One study done in 2022 highlights seafood as a pillar in our sustainable food system. Collaboration among each community, local government, and the global market ensures ideal management and safe fishing practices to promote sustainability for all.
In Maine, the seafood industry contributes $3.2 billion a year to the state’s economy, making it a vital component of our economic system. It is also a crucial component of our food chain, offering a delicious source of high-quality protein and overall nourishment. The journey from the cold Maine waters to the plate is a meticulous process aimed at ensuring sustainability and freshness. Local fishermen use methods that minimize environmental impact, such as trap fishing for lobsters and line fishing for cod.
Examples of other sustainable fishing practices include:
Minimizing accidental catch
Rod-and-reel fishing (identifies specific fish and selects one or smaller groups at a time to prevent overfishing)
Reducing waste or materials discarded while fishing that may pollute the area and impact the health of the ocean
Reducing carbon exposure through efficient fuel usage and less transportation
After the catch, seafood is carefully processed, which often involves cleaning, sorting, and in some cases, cooking or freezing. Finally, the fresh catchings make their way to markets, restaurants, and homes, often within a short time frame to ensure they are enjoyed at their freshest. This process is vital for extending the seafood's shelf life while maintaining its quality so that you can reap the nutritional benefits to the fullest.
Nutritional Benefits
Seafood is chock-full of nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and cognitive function. Fish like salmon, mackerel, and herring are particularly rich in these beneficial fats. Moreover, seafood provides high-quality complete protein, along with vitamins D and B12, and minerals such as selenium, iodine, and zinc, making it an excellent and tasty meal addition!
Finding Local Seafood: sources and recipes for preparation
Maine offers numerous ways for residents and visitors alike to access fresh, local seafood. Farmers markets, local fishmongers, and Community Supported Fisheries (CSFs) are excellent sources for sustainable seafood. CSFs operate similarly to CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs, where consumers can purchase a "share" of the catch directly from fishermen, ensuring they receive fresh, seasonal seafood while supporting local fisheries.
Here is a list of CSFs(*) and farmer’s markets that feature local seafood:
P.J. Merrill Seafood
Harbor Fish
Ready Seafood*
Cozy Harbor Seafood
Klenda Seafood*
Sysco Northern New England*
Making Fish Consumption Affordable
Enjoying seafood doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips on shopping for seafood cheaply!
Consider local shops, fishermen, and wholesale distribution of products caught in Maine
Include canned and frozen seafood options such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, tilapia, shrimp
Follow the seasons to track reduced market pricing
Recipes below for easy and delicious seafood preparation:
https://www.chewoutloud.com/easy-lemon-butter-fish-15-minutes/
https://nutritiouslife.com/eat-empowered/how-to-roast-shrimp-easy/
Tips on what you may do to enhance the sustainability of our precious and shared water supply
The protection of water sources is vital for human life, yet it is often taken for granted. The excess use of water for cleaning, cooking, individual consumption, and even minor leaks in household appliances can degrade the health of our clean water sources. Excessive water use not only harms our ecosystems but also affects recreational water activities like boating and water skiing, as well as the quality of seafood from our oceans. When the health of the water is disturbed, the health of organisms and the growth of life underwater are compromised. According to the CDC, water pollution can lead to public health issues, affecting digestion and cognition, among other areas of health.
Ways to Enhance the Sustainability of Water:
Be mindful to shorten the running water through a tap or when bathing
Install energy-efficiency water systems in your home
Reuse cooking water
Clean laundry and dishes when at full capacity to avoid excessive water use
Water displacement bags (learn about them here) for toilet and bathroom use and reducing flushing
Together, we can make a difference by adopting sustainable practices and supporting local fisheries. By doing so, we not only enjoy the freshest seafood but also contribute to the health of our oceans. Stay tuned to our blog for more insights on sustainability and the local foods of Maine. Let's continue this journey towards a more sustainable and delicious future.