TROPICAL NEWS

Our Irish Organic Salmon program is having great beginning success.  Comments from our customers include: “This stuff is beautiful!” “I’ve never seen an organic product with such rich, deep color.”  “My customers are wild for this product.  When can I get more?” “Let me double my order for next week.”

Along with repeat purchases from our satisfied customers, we are also pleased to announce that we are now in a position to offer 10-12 lb whole salmon as well as the 6-8 and 8-10’s.  Our customers looking for larger sizes are very pleased about this.

Along with beautiful color and excellent quality, this product is received at JFK 36 hours from harvest direct on Aer Lingus.  It doesn’t get any fresher!

Even though the FDA has not yet ruled on an organic standard here in the US, this product has received organic certification from France, Germany, Switzerland and the European Union.

If you haven’t purchased it yet, please call and we will send you a brochure and provide quotes.

THINKORGANICTHINKSALMON

Last month our partner farm in Colombia, Piscicola New York, received Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification.

Piscicola utilizes a cage system in the Betania Reservoir in the Magdalena River.  Betania is an ideal location because of its low Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT), a key component to the healthy cultivation of fish.  The average HRT of Betania is one month while the average for most lakes is 1-10 years.

As part of the BAP program, the farm constantly monitors water quality at three different stations.  If needed, corrective actions are taken in the case that one of the quality checkpoints has been affected.  Additionally, all aquaculture activity in the reservoir is managed and restricted by the Colombian government.

With the addition of BAP certification at our Colombian farm, Tropical now provides 94% of its product certified under BAP standards.

At Tropical, we believe that sustainability is a continuous process and we are always open to incorporate new sustainability standards as they become available.

After the introduction of our new Organic Irish Salmon at the International Boston Seafood Show 2010, President John Schramm visited the West Cork Organic Salmon farm in Bantry Bay, Ireland last week. During his visit, John toured the farm where the salmon is carefully nurtured from smolt to market size, averaging 4.5 Kg.

Murphy’s Irish Seafood produces its West Cork Organic Salmon according to AB certification (Quality-France SAS) and Naturland Verband’s organic certifications. Murphy’s operation has been audited for BIO Suisse (Switzerland), IOFGA (Ireland) and EU Organic certifications.

West Cork Organic Salmon is raised in low-density sea cages where large tidal exchange and strong Atlantic currents give an ideal fish rearing environment. The fish are fed a diet containing only natural and organic ingredients. These factors result in the highest-quality farm raised product that’s as near to wild as possible.     

John Murphy, President of Murphy’s Irish Seafood said, “Ireland’s seafood producers have evolved from ancient fishing methods to a level that recognizes the importance of sustainability, traceability, quality and consistency.” Tropical delivers just that.

Organic Salmon from Ireland is accredited internationally and is recognized for its succulent flavor, deep color and firm texture. Processed in a British Retail Consortium (BRC) Grade-A facility, the product can be packed according to each customer’s specifications.

Tropical is proud to introduce West Cork Organic Salmon to its expanding product line and to continue to supply sustainable and 100% traceable seafood to tables around the world.

Aquamar’s tilapia processing facility is located in the Yaguachi County of Ecuador and operates a state of the art effluent water treatment plant (EWTP). The water discharged by the EWTP complies with Ecuadorian regulations on effluent water discharges into natural bodies of water, as well as with international standards like Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP); (See table below). Additionally, the water discharged by the EWTP is used for irrigation of the agricultural land located near the processing plant.

Aquamar’s EWTP includes the following treatment stages: mechanical separation of large solids, mechanical fat trap, mechanical filtration of mid-sized solids, water homogenization, removal of suspended fat and dissolved solids by use of Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) technology, reduction of Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) by use of a biological reactor with Attached Growth Airlift (AGAR) technology, and water clarification.

The sludge generated by the EWTP is centrifuged to reduce its moisture content; it is then used as raw material along with by-products obtained from the tilapia process to produce compounded meal in Aquamar’s meal plant. The compounded meal produced by Aquamar is sold to feed manufacturers for the poultry, shrimp, pork and household pet feed industries.

Aquamar expects to diversify the applicability of the sludge generated by the EWTP and utilize it as key material for the production of agricultural compost.  Further treatment of the water effluent will be carried out in order to reuse it for certain applications in the processing plant.            
Aquamar continues to faithfully follow their philosophy of continuous innovation and responsible optimization of natural resources and sustainability.

On February 10th and 11th, two of our Ecuadorian farms received a visit from Aaron McNevin of World Wildlife Fund, who coordinated the recently completed Tilapia Aquaculture Dialogue (TAD). The TAD developed global standards designed to minimize the key environmental and social impacts associated with tilapia aquaculture. McNevin traveled to Ecuador to attend the audit of these new standards at our Aquamar and Produmar farms.  
 
These standards are the result of a five-year process that included more than 200 people from the production and commercial sectors, as well as non-government and government organizations.  For more information about the TAD, go to www.worldwildlife.org/tilapiastandards http://www.worldwildlife.org/tilapiastandards to watch a video about the project and read the final standards document.   
 
Our production systems are always looking to adopt new standards as they validate and reinforce the good aquaculture practices that we already employ. From the beginning, we were in support of the TAD.  Alfonso Delfini E., owner of Aquamar Farm, was a founding member of the TAD and has served on the steering committee since its inception.  McNevin said, “Alfonso has been invaluable and has contributed an incredible amount of aquaculture expertise, patience and faith in the process of standards development. Both personally and professionally, I am grateful for his commitment and participation in the TAD.”

Rutland, Vermont – Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc., North America’s leading fresh tilapia supplier, will be presenting again this year at the International Boston Seafood Show (IBSS), March 14 -16, 2010 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Boston, Massachusetts.  IBSS, http://www.bostonseafood.com, is North America's largest seafood exhibition and is expected to attract close to 16,000 seafood buyers and sellers from around the world.  Always an industry attraction, Tropical's 1,200 square foot exhibit features innovative displays.   This year will be no exception.  Attendees to the show will want to stop by Tropical’s Booth #333 to see what they have up their sleeve.  Tropical has proven that they are constantly looking to evolve and improve upon current processes and this was made clear when they recently attained two-star BAP certification at two of their largest Ecuadorian facilities.   Also on hand at IBSS will be their European representative

Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc., America’s leading fresh tilapia importer, announced today that two of it’s largest Ecuadorian farms, Aquamar and Produmar, recently attained BAP (Best Aquaculture Practices) certification. “This is a milestone in our journey toward sustainability,” said Enrico Delfini, Executive Vice-President of Aquamar S.A.

Tropical has implemented BAP certification because it provides retailers, consumers and producers with a common standard on food safety, environmental stewardship, social responsibility and traceability.  “BAP has been the only auditable tilapia standard up to this point.  We committed to acquiring two-star certification by 2010 and we have accomplished this goal.  We will continue to evaluate new certifications as they are finalized and able to be implemented,” said John Schramm, President of Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc. 

“Our farms have been committed to sustainability from day one, and this is another step toward the future,” said José Antonio Lince, Manager of the Aquaculture Division at Produmar S.A.

Aquamar’s farm underwent a rigorous audit on December 16, 2009 followed by Produmar’s audit on December 17, 2009.  Both farms received excellent scores for their outstanding commitment to the BAP aquaculture standard.  In addition to being the first tilapia farms to be BAP certified in the Americas, Aquamar’s plant was BAP certified on September 15, 2009 and Produmar’s plant was BAP certified on October 23, 2009.  

“The BAP certification exemplifies our commitment to stewardship at every level of our organization,” added Schramm.  Tropical is now able to provide in excess of 25 million pounds of fresh tilapia fillets that are two-star BAP certified per year. 

Turkey may be the traditional Thanksgiving meal for thousands of citizens, but this year tilapia may be the new turkey for some Americans.

In the spirit of thanking and giving, Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc., North America’s leading tilapia supplier (www.tropicalaquaculture.com), announced today that the company will be donating 10,000 pounds of fresh tilapia fillets for Thanksgiving to food banks in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Baltimore, Boston, New York City, Miami and Philadelphia.

For Tropical, donating tilapia fillets is not just a gesture of charity, but it is an initiative that reinforces their commitment to social responsibility.  Thanksgiving is a time to come together to celebrate friends, family and food.  While Thanksgiving is a U.S holiday, these values are practiced throughout the America’s, including our farming group in Central and South America.

This contribution of fresh tilapia is meant to provide a healthy source of protein for those in need. “Unbelievable!” said Butch Langenfelder, Food Sourcing Manager at Maryland Food Bank in Baltimore. “You have no idea how excited we are, we are always searching for fresh seafood. This will have an immediate impact on the holiday season,” he added.

Tropical believes that social responsibility is not only at the production level, but throughout the supply chain. Although fish may not be the tradition for Thanksgiving we hope that every recipient will enjoy Tropical tilapia this holiday.

Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc., North America’s leading fresh tilapia supplier (www.tropicalaquaculture.com) and it’s sister company, Tropical Aquaculture Europe, today announced that the company’s two largest Ecuadorian plants, Aquamar and Produmar, have received “Best Aquaculture Practices” (BAP) certification.

“As the aquaculture industry advances, retailers, consumers and producers are searching for common standards on food safety, social responsibility and environmental sustainability,” Schramm, Tropical’s President, said.  “BAP now gives our customers this comprehensive certification standard designed to address both industry and NGO concerns.” 

“Tropical’s plants and farms currently carry SQF 2000 level 3 and ISO and will continue with these certifications. Currently, Tropical is focused on BAP certification across all plants and farms,” Schramm said.  “This milestone exemplifies the group’s commitment and willingness to invest in sustainable aquaculture operations.” 

“As the leading standards-setting organization for aquaculture seafood, the Global Aquaculture Alliance is pleased with this recognition of BAP certification as the way to meet the demands of the marketplace for responsibly produced seafood,” said Wally Stevens, GAA Executive Director. “From our perspective, BAP standards are the gateway to the global marketplace, and we applaud Tropical—under the leadership of its President and CEO, John Schramm, for this major accomplishment.”

Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc. 63 Grove Street Rutland, VT 05701 www.tropicalaquaculture.com

Tropical Takes 'Green' to Vermont
February 17, 2009

February 2009 - Rutland, Vermont: Leading wholesale seafood provider, Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc., promotes "green offices".

"Our farms operate in a sustainable manner, it only makes sense that we practice those same beliefs in our offices too", says John K. Schramm, President and CEO of Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc.

"The focus has always been on the farms, but as a vertical company, we have complete control over every aspect of our operations: our feed, farming, processing, logistics AND corporate offices". "Many of our green initiatives started as employee suggestions. Everyone's on-board. We're doing everything we can to protect our environment and we'll keep looking for ways to make improvements", says Schramm.

Tropical is actively employing both popular and innovative methods to ensure its offices are as eco-friendly as possible. Among other measures, the company SMART Car is available to employees on a weekly rotation basis. Tropical also supplies complimentary water coolers, glassware, plates and utensils in order to cut-down on paper and plastic use in the office. Paper, glass, aluminum and plastic recycling bins are placed throughout the building and, as available, paper products for the bathrooms and kitchens are made from 100% recycled materials. An assortment of live plants serve not only as decoration, but as natural air filters within the work space.

With recent upgrades to its computer system, the company is further able to pursue a 'paper-less' environment. In the meantime, along with paper reductions, Tropical uses recycled or recyclable paper for its printers and faxes. During recent renovations, energy efficient lighting was installed throughout the building. Likewise, cooling and heating systems are kept to minimal use, especially during off-hours. During the icy winter months, Tropical uses natural sand on its driveway and sidewalks rather than harsh chemical melts.

Based in the heart of the green mountains, Tropical is inspired by its surroundings. "Like our farms, the idea of 'green' isn't new to Vermont. Making a conscious effort to cut down on waste is simply the right thing to do", states Schramm.

Infusing sustainable thinking at every level, Tropical will offer eco-friendly promotional items at the 2009 International Boston Seafood Show - Booth #333.

Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc. 63 Grove Street Rutland , VT 05701 - www.tropicalaquaculture.com . With farms and plants in Ecuador, Colombia and Brazil - Tropical Aquaculture Products is a leading wholesale provider of fresh farmed tilapia, shrimp and trout in North America.

TILAPIA IN THE NEWS: Fish, Including Tilapia, are an Important and Nutritious Food Source.
August 08, 2008

A study published in the July Journal of the American Dietetic Association debates the health ramifications of the Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio found in a select sampling of farmed fish, including tilapia, and the possible effects on individuals vulnerable to "exaggerated inflammatory response".

In a rush to report the results of the study, some news sources neglected to consider peer review including a critical article by Dr. William Harris in the same journal. Dr. Harris's review refuted the study's exaggerated claims, including irresponsible comparisons to foods high unsaturated fat. These early press reports resulted in much confusion in the marketplace and several renowned scientists have since responded affirming the nutritional benefits of fish, including tilapia, in the diet.

Three things to note when considering this research:

1. It is important to know where your food comes from (its traceability).

2. Certain health assumptions made were directed solely at individuals with certain diseases such as cardiovascular and auto immune disease and asthma. Those individuals should always consult their doctor regarding diet.

3. There is general consensus in the medical community that both Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids from fish are part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, there is no consensus in the medical community that lower Omega-3/higher Omega-6 fish are an unhealthy food choice. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fish per week.

1. KNOW WHERE YOUR FOOD COMES FROM:

Knowing where your food was sourced, its traceability, is an important part of ensuring a healthy diet. The researchers of this study were not able to secure a random sampling of fish for testing. The samples used were based on species available at the time of the research and voluntary distributor participation. In their samplings, the researchers found an averaged 11-1 ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3. It is important to note that not all aquaculture farms utilize the same processes and standards for raising fish.

Nutritional Content of Tropical Aquaculture Tilapia: In tests conducted by ABC Research Corporation on initial samplings of our tilapia (results delivered 7/17/08), Tropical Aquaculture tilapia had a .22g/100g-.11g/100g - or a 2:1 - Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio.

Tropical's tilapia contains no additives, no preservatives and no chemicals. Our fish farms are at the forefront of the industry for environmental stewardship, animal welfare, food safety and traceability. Our Tilapia is flown in daily from South and Central America within 24-hours of harvest and is delivered FRESH never frozen. Tropical tilapia can be found in fine retailers and restaurants across North America.

2. VULNERABILITY TO EXAGGERATED INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE:

Individuals vulnerable to exaggerated inflammatory response should consult their individual doctor or dietician regarding ALL of their dietary requirements including their Omega-3 and Omega-6 intake.

It is well documented that Omega-3's and Omega-6's are essential to optimum human health and development. Fish are a healthy source of these 2 critical fatty acids. In fact, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week in order to ensure these nutrients and others are present in a healthy and balanced diet.

No single food contains all the nutrients necessary for a balanced diet. A balanced diet means ensuring the right amounts of all nutrients from a variety of sources.

Those with specific medical needs should always consult their physician regarding their individual dietary requirements.

3. THERE IS NO MEDICAL CONSENSUS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AN OMEGA-3 TO OMEGA-6 RATIO AND HEALTH:

According to a recent release from the National Fisheries Institute (NFI), Jennifer Wilmes registered dietician with NFI said, "We need more science to agree on the impact of an omega-3 to omega-6 ratio". "But what we do have scientific consensus on is that omega-3s - which you can get plenty of by eating a variety of fish - are paramount to heart disease prevention."

Wilmes also quotes Dr. William Harris PhD who devotes a three page research editorial in the July issue of the American Dietetic Journal to the topic of this research. According to Harris, "There is currently no scientific consensus that lower-Omega-3/higher-Omega-6 fish are unhealthy." He also points out that the study "fails to consider relevant human experimental evidence" and attacks the dramatic comparison of tilapia to hamburger and bacon, calling it a "potentially flawed concept" that overstates the impact of Omega-6.

One statement from this study that has been greatly misrepresented is a generalization that tilapia is not a good food choice in comparison to 80 percent lean hamburger, pork bacon or donuts. It is important to note that the study specifically caveats this statement with "All other nutritional content aside...", directing the comparison solely to the Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio and not considering total fat, saturated fat, calories or sodium levels. Such a comparison is a misrepresentation of the true nutritional benefits of fish and can lead to potentially harmful results if consumers follow the implications of this statement and substitute these high saturated fat items for nutritious fish.

Tilapia has substantially lower levels of total fat, saturated fat, calories and sodium than 80 percent lean hamburger, pork bacon and donuts.

Founded in 1995 and located in Rutland Vermont, Tropical Aquaculture Products, Inc. is the industry leader in the delivery of fresh tilapia throughout North America. The Tropical product line also includes fresh farmed and wild caught shrimp, and fresh farmed trout. All of Tropical Aquaculture's products are imported fresh (never frozen) daily from sustainable farms in South and Central America. For more information, visit www.tropicalaquaculture.com

Related articles:

Catfish and Tilapia: Helpful or Harmful?