Salmon Farming in BC with Cermaq

by Samantha Bacchus McLeod

Indeed, that delectable sashimi platter relied on the expertise of numerous salmon farming professionals who are actively contributing to food-security

Anyone who knows me, knows how obsessed I am about food for everyone. I believe we all have a right to clean healthy food and water. In our world today, the great divide between who gets to eat and who doesn’t seems to be defined by a small percentage of anti-food-industries activists. For example, vegans wanting the world to be vegans, this idealistic-idle set likes to believe all cultures could easily transition to a meatless diet, lose weight and look good. This is meanwhile destroying the little arable land and clean water we have left to indulge their entitled whims.

Then there are the activists who have decided growing fish in the ocean is a no-no – and here again we have an idealist-idle set pounding away on their keyboards to do away with growing food all together, but if needs must, they say, “then grow fish on land”.

Needs must grow fish in the ocean where they belong, needs must focus on food security, needs must discuss climate changes’ devastating destruction of arable land and water. Needs must lift up and celebrate the industries growing good, healthy food right now.

I have discussed climate change and dairy in a previous post, now let’s talk about farming the oceans, about how we can get involved in more meaningful ways. Because after all, we must grow more now so our future generations may have a chance at survival. Today, I choose a local BC salmon farming company to raise up.

Cermaq is a global company, with salmon farming operations in Norway, Chile, and Canada, and every country’s operation is as unique as the pristine waters in which they operate, may it be Norway, Chile, or Canada. From the shores to the people, Cermaq does everything necessary to fit into the landscape without making a big splash. Companies like these bring a huge boost to the economy of coastal communities. Think of this industry as a bridge that is connecting historically neglected communities to the rest of the country. Needless to say, Cermaq is proud to be a part of the magnificent beauty that is Vancouver Island, and beyond proud to be a part of the local culture.

Mutuality is the key to their operations; mutual respect and mutual benefits create a win-win situation. In their pursuit of raising the world’s healthiest fish, they are creating a vibrant salmon farming industry while providing above average incomes to ( I am going to say it again) historically neglected communities.

This mutual collaboration is also directly responsible for the advancement of the fish farming industry through increased investments in innovation and tech – especially when it comes to combating the devastating effects of climate change. Climate change as we all know is affecting the entire food supply chain globally, from agriculture and fisheries to food distribution and access.

One essential aspect of securing our food-future is being mindful of how our food is produced, its sources, and the ethical practices of companies within these industries. From egg to plate or smolt to sushi, before a chef’s final presentation, there is a substantial amount of thought, investment, work, passion, and scientific innovation involved in raising the world’s best fish. Food that can be traced back from plate to broodstock, the mother of all future fish.

For that delectable bite of buttery salmon atop vinegary rice, it took a long and arduous journey to get from our pristine coasts to our urbanites’ tables. A journey spanning hatching and early rearing, smoltification and transfer to ocean cages, nearly three years of feeding and growth, followed by harvesting, processing, and meticulous transport.

That sashimi that is so incredibly fresh, as though the chef with a flick of his apron flew off to pluck the choicest fish from the sea. Indeed, that delectable sashimi platter relied on the expertise of numerous professionals, including:

  • Hatchery Managers and Technicians, along with Aquaculture Biologists.
  • Smolt Technicians and Fish Health Specialists.
  • Fish Farm Managers, Fish Farm Technicians, Feeding Technicians, and Net Pen Operators.
  • Fish Harvesters, Harvest Supervisors, and Quality Control Inspectors.
  • Fish Processors, Fillet Technicians, Quality Assurance Managers, and Packaging Operators.
  • Logistics Coordinators, Transport Drivers, and Cold Chain Managers, among others.

What’s my point here? Do not belittle a career in any food industry, instead aim to be a part of the diverse range of experts involved in delivering every bite of culinary delight. Food Industries is the new Tech Giants!

Cermaq is always on the lookout for people who care about environment and culture, while understanding the business of growing sustainable food for generations to come. Cermaq is owned by Mitsubishi – part of the organization’s Healthy Living branch. If this sounds like the place to enjoy quality time while raising healthy food for the future of humankind, reach out to get onboard.

#203-919 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, Canada V9W 2C2
Phone: +1 250-286-0022
[email protected]
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