Traversing Policy: Southstream Seafoods’ Contribution to the Farm Bill

BySouthstream Seafood June 18, 2024August 22, 2024

As the House and Senate work on the proposed Farm Bill legislation, the emerging framework, for the first time ever, reflects a significant focus on seafood. This increased emphasis on seafood marks a significant turning point in legislative priorities, a shift that owes much to the collaborative efforts of industry stakeholders, including a Southstream Seafood employee, Tomas Conde, who actively participated in advocacy initiatives with The Future Leaders during their lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill in May.

These engagements involved meetings with key offices such as those of Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Senator Jack Reed, Representative Seth Magaziner, and Representative Gabe Amo. The Future Leaders team addressed crucial agenda items, advocating for the establishment of an Office of Seafood Policy within the USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist and pushing for trade policies that secure access to essential seafood products for Americans’ long-term health.

Recent developments within the House Agriculture Committee and the Senate frameworks, encompassing both Democrat and Republican perspectives, reflect a growing awareness of the importance of seafood. Provisions include support for seafood in nutrition programs, a focus on aquaculture, efforts to provide much-needed credit to seafood-related businesses through programs like the Food Supply Chain Grant and Guaranteed Loan Program, and the creation of a seafood liaison at the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enhance coordination on seafood policy. Additionally, there are proposals for technical assistance to bolster cold chain capacity and strategies to expand seafood processing in coastal communities.

The participation of a Southstream Seafoods’ employee who lobbied on Capitol Hill in May, along with NFI-coordinated outreach, has played a role in shaping these legislative priorities. The efforts of The Future Leaders have contributed to establishing a seafood liaison at the USDA and advancing proposals for expanding seafood processing in coastal areas. While the path of the Farm Bill remains dynamic, with ongoing discussions poised to impact post-election sessions or potential reauthorization in 2025, the momentum for change is undeniable.

Looking ahead, the 2024 Leadership Summit scheduled for September 23-26 in Washington, D.C., offers a further opportunity to advocate for critical seafood-related issues and garner continued support. This ongoing collaboration and advocacy are essential steps toward securing a sustainable and thriving future for the seafood industry and all its stakeholders.

For those interested in learning more about the proposed Farm Bill legislation and its implications for fisheries support, we recommend reading “Fishing Groups Praise US Senate Farm Bill for Including Fisheries Support.”

Choose Southstream Seafoods

At Southstream, we are committed to delivering high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood to meet the nutritional needs of hospitals, retirement homes, and other institutions. Our brands, including Frostmark™, Thorfish, and I&J, stand for quality and sustainability. Explore our range of products on our website or contact us at sales@southstream.com for more information.

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Celebrate Independence Day with this Quick & Easy Firecracker Shrimp Recipe

BySouthstream Seafood July 2, 2024August 22, 2024

*Source:* *A Farmgirls Dabbles*. Get the recipe here .

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a bang by trying this delicious Firecracker Shrimp recipe! Made with high-quality domestic shrimp from Southstream Seafood, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re a food distributor, a healthcare facility, or a restaurant, this crowd-pleasing shrimp dish will elevate your menu.

Our premium domestic shrimp guarantees exceptional quality and freshness with every bite. Enjoy lightly-breaded fried shrimp coated in a sticky, irresistible sauce that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, firecracker shrimp is the perfect appetizer or a delightful entrée when paired with rice. Don’t miss out on making your Independence Day memorable with this tasty recipe.

Ingredients

For the Firecracker Sauce:

⅓ cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons Tamari or soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons water
3 large cloves garlic, minced

For the Shrimp:

1 pound (21-25 per pound) Southstream’s raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 large egg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Salt & pepper, to taste
Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional Garnishes:

Sesame seeds
Chopped fresh chives

Instructions

Prepare the Firecracker Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
Season and Coat the Shrimp: Season shrimp with salt & pepper to taste. Whisk the flour and cornstarch together in a small bowl, then coat the shrimp in this mixture.
Fry the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to just cover the surface. Beat the egg in a small bowl, then dip each shrimp in the egg to coat well. Once the oil is shimmering, transfer shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate lined with a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
Coat the Shrimp in Sauce: Carefully wipe out the hot skillet, then place it back over medium-high heat. Pour the firecracker sauce into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Add the shrimp back into the skillet and fold with a spatula to thoroughly coat with the sauce. Season with a bit more salt and/or pepper, if needed.
Serve: Serve firecracker shrimp immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped chives if desired. Enjoy over white rice or cilantro lime rice, with a side of super greens.

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This recipe is from A Farmgirl’s Dabbles: Firecracker Shrimp.

The Magnesium Benefits of Eating Seafood You Need to Know

BySouthstream Seafood July 30, 2024September 10, 2024

From heart-healthy omega-3s to a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, seafood provides nutrients that are important for all life-stages. And speaking of minerals in seafood, we’re focusing on one trace mineral that has a big impact in the body: magnesium.

Magnesium is a trace mineral, which means we don’t need large amounts of it. And you may be surprised to discover that magnesium is needed for more than 600 reactions in the body! Some of these roles include maintaining proper nerve and muscle function, assisting with DNA production, supporting a steady heartbeat, managing blood glucose, keeping bones strong and so much more.

Additionally, magnesium is an electrolyte that works in tandem with calcium, potassium and sodium to help keep our hearts ticking seamlessly and our blood pressure in check. High or low levels of any of these will likely raise or lower other electrolytes. In fact, severe magnesium deficiency can cause hypocalcemia (low calcium) or hypokalemia (low potassium) levels.

Incorporating a variety of magnesium-rich foods like seafood, seeds, and nuts into the diet can provide these essential health benefits. For a more detailed exploration of the magnesium benefits of seafood, you can read the full article here.

Choose Southstream Seafoods

Southstream is committed to providing high-quality fish products that cater to the nutritional needs of hospitals and retirement homes. Our seafood selections are not only delicious but also packed with the essential nutrients that promote health and wellness. By choosing Southstream Seafoods, you can ensure that your patients and residents receive the best possible care through their diet. Our brands, including Frostmark™, Thorfish, and I&J, exemplify our dedication to quality and sustainability. Explore our range of products on our website and contact us at sales@southstream.com for more information.

This blog is based on information provided by DishonFish.

Easy Summer Recipe | Blackened Catfish with Vibrant Mango Avocado Salsa

BySouthstream Seafood July 9, 2024August 22, 2024

*Source:* *Taste of Home*. Get the recipe here .

Summer is here, and it’s time to bring some fresh, vibrant flavors to your menu. Southstream Seafood’s catfish fillets are the perfect base for a dish that’s sure to impress your customers: Blackened Catfish with Mango Avocado Salsa. This vibrant fish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a fresh green salad. This recipe combines the bold, smoky flavors of blackened seasoning with the refreshing, tropical taste of mango and avocado salsa. It’s a match made in culinary heaven.

At Southstream Seafood, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, sustainably sourced fish. Our catfish fillets are no exception. They’re tender, flavorful, and perfect for a variety of recipes, including this blackened catfish dish. By using Southstream’s catfish, you’re not only serving a delicious meal but also supporting sustainable fishing practices.

Ingredients

For the Blackened Catfish:

2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons paprika
2-1/4 teaspoons pepper, divided
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
4 Southstream’s catfish fillets (6 ounces each)
2 teaspoons olive oil

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

1 medium mango, peeled and cubed
1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and cubed
1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons lime juice

Instructions

Preparing the Catfish:

Combine the oregano, cumin, paprika, pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
Rub this mixture evenly over the catfish fillets.
Refrigerate the seasoned fillets for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing the Mango Avocado Salsa:

While the catfish is marinating, mix the mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining salt and pepper in a small bowl.
Chill the salsa in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Cooking the Catfish:

Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Add the marinated catfish fillets to the skillet and cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
Serve the hot catfish fillets topped with the chilled mango avocado salsa.

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This recipe is from Taste of Home: Blackened Catfish with Mango Avocado Salsa.

6 Ways to Celebrate National Seafood Month the Right Way

BySouthstream Seafood October 17, 2024October 17, 2024

*Alaskan Pollock Noodle Bowls. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

October brings cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors, but it also marks National Seafood Month—a time to reflect on the benefits of sustainable seafood. At Southstream Seafoods, we offer high-quality seafood to meet the needs of healthcare facilities, food distributors, and restaurants. Celebrate sustainable seafood and explore why choosing our products is the ideal choice for your health and business.

1. Understanding Sustainable Seafood

*Quick and easy fish tacos. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

Sustainable seafood means that fish are harvested responsibly, allowing populations to replenish naturally. At Southstream, our products are sourced from fisheries committed to preserving marine ecosystems. Additionally, these practices ensure that fisheries remain healthy and abundant for future generations. By introducing sustainable seafood, healthcare facilities, food distributors, and restaurants can support responsible sourcing while offering healthy dishes.

2. The Nutritional Benefits of Seafood

*Teriyaki Fish Stir Fry with Pollock. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

Seafood, like our premium Cape hake fillets, is packed with essential nutrients and omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart, brain, and immune system health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that people six months and older should incorporate seafood into their diet. However, nearly 90% of Americans fall short of this recommendation. At Southstream, we help bridge that gap by supplying high-quality seafood products, making it easy to create delicious meals that meet dietary needs.

3. Exploring Global Seafood Delights

*Buttery Cracker Topped Alaska Cod. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

Discover the culinary possibilities with Southstream’ premium seafood products. Our Nutaaq Cod and Cape Hake fillets bring delicious flavors to the table, allowing restaurants to craft dishes using premium seafood. By showcasing international seafood offerings, both healthcare facilities and distributors can satisfy the growing consumer demand for high-quality, sustainable, and diverse seafood options.

4. Seafood for Tailgating and Gatherings

*Grilled Sliders with Avocado. Sourced: Alaska Seafood.*

It is football season, and tailgate parties are a great opportunity to bring seafood to the table. From cod sliders to grilled haddock fillets, incorporating seafood into game-day dishes can provide a twist on the classics. Restaurants can introduce special game-day menus featuring seafood favorites, while food distributors can ensure their clients have access to crowd-pleasing seafood options for any gathering.

5. Planning Holiday Menus

*Creamy Coconut Pollock Curry with Saffron Rice. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

As the holidays approach, it’s time to reinvent traditional menus with the addition of sustainable seafood. Featuring premium pollock fillets to Cape Hake folded loins, businesses can provide festive dishes that appeal to diners looking for unique culinary experiences. At Southstream Seafoods, our wide range of products is designed to elevate any holiday menu with sustainable, flavorful options.

6. Embracing Simplicity

*Honey-Glazed Cod Bowl. Source: Alaska Seafood.*

Preparing high-quality seafood doesn’t have to be complicated. Southstream delivers easy-to-prepare options like our haddock and cod fillets, which help create mouthwatering meals with minimal effort. Healthcare facilities and food distributors can highlight the convenience of preparing our products, making them ideal for busy kitchens while ensuring customers receive nutritious seafood meals.

Choose Southstream Seafoods

During National Seafood Month, we celebrate the many benefits of sustainable seafood for our health, our environment, and our communities. At Southstream Seafoods, we’re proud to provide the healthcare industry, food distributors, and restaurants with premium products like Atlantic cod, wild-caught pollock, and more. Our brands, including Frostmark™, Thorfish, and I&J, are a testament to our dedication to quality and sustainability. Explore our diverse range of seafood on our website and contact us for more information.

This blog is based on information provided by NOAA Fisheries.

How Seafood Dramatically Reduces Preterm Births: Unlock the Power of Omega-3s

BySouthstream Seafood September 10, 2024September 10, 2024

A recent comprehensive study has highlighted the significant impact of omega-3s, particularly DHA and EPA, found in seafood, in reducing preterm births. The study revealed that women with low DHA levels at the start experienced a 66% reduction in preterm births after increasing their intake of these essential fatty acids.

Preterm birth, the leading cause of infant mortality in the United States, has seen a concerning rise, with the rate reaching 10.4% in 2021. The disparity is especially alarming for Black women, who have a 55% higher preterm birth rate than white women.

Dr. Susan Carlson, a member of the SNP Science Nutrition Advisory Council (SNAC), and Dr. Irene Cetin, along with 24 international authors, developed new Clinical Practice Guidelines focused on Omega-3 intake to mitigate preterm birth risks. Supported by seven pediatric, obstetric, and child health organizations, their conclusions emphasize the importance of omega-3 fatty acids for women of childbearing age.

The guidelines recommend that women prioritize regular omega-3 consumption, whether through fish, oily fish, or supplements containing DHA and EPA. Research confirms that intakes of up to 1,000 mg of DHA + EPA during pregnancy are both safe and beneficial. The recommended intake levels can vary depending on the individual’s DHA levels at the start of pregnancy.

Dr. Carlson stresses that lower fish consumption and decreased omega-3 fatty acid levels in the blood are associated with a higher risk of preterm births, particularly those occurring before 34 weeks of gestation. This research underscores the vital role omega-3s play not only in supporting heart, immune, and mental health but also in reducing the risk of preterm births. By increasing omega-3 intake among pregnant women, the U.S. could save over $8 billion in healthcare costs related to preterm births.

For more information, you can view the full article in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology-Maternal Fetal Medicine here.

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This blog is based on information provided by Seafood Nutrition.

NASEM Report Highlights Seafood’s Role in Child Development

BySouthstream Seafood May 22, 2024August 22, 2024

Southstream Seafoods is excited to share insights by Bailee Henderson from Food Safety Magazine, about the NASEM report, which provides access to critical information about seafood’s role in child development and the critical nutrients it provides. This extensive study marks a groundbreaking effort, highlighting the critical nature of the findings regarding the dietary habits of women and children. The report underscores the importance of nutrition, revealing that fish consumption among these groups falls significantly below the Dietary Guidelines recommendation of the advised twice-weekly intake. The NASEM report addresses nutritional benefits and mercury exposure concerns, which is a pivotal resource for policymakers and health professionals. For a deeper understanding, read Henderson’s article below.

A glimpse into the article:

Overall, the NASEM report findings show that most women of childbearing age, children, and adolescents do not consume the recommended amounts and types of seafood, and the report calls for strategies to support increasing consumption toward meeting recommendations. Although the committee found the existence of insufficient evidence suggesting a need to revise seafood consumption guidelines, the need to identify strategies to help individuals meet current guidelines is clear. The study also emphasizes the importance of a seafood diet in providing essential nutrients while minimizing exposure to toxins.

Eat More Fish—NASEM Concludes Study on Role of Seafood in Child Growth and Development

The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) has completed its study on “The Role of Seafood in Child Growth and Development,” fulfilling an October 2022 request from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The research aimed to better understand the nutritional benefits of seafood consumption weighed against the health risks posed by toxic heavy metals and other contaminants present in seafood, specifically concerning pregnant/nursing women and children and the developmental/lifelong effects of exposure.

According to NASEM, although seafood is an important source of key nutrients, it can also be a source of exposure to contaminants such as methylmercury; persistent pollutants like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyls; and microbiological hazards that may be detrimental to the growth and development of children. Still, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020–2025 (DGA) includes an overarching recommendation that all U.S. adults aim to consume at least 8 ounces (two servings) of seafood per week. Children are recommended to consume two servings per week proportional to the child’s total caloric intake, beginning at six months of age.

FDA’s Closer to Zero action plan was launched in April 2021 to reduce children’s exposure to four toxic heavy metals that can harm childhood development—arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury—and the action plan serves as the foundation for DGA seafood recommendations. The juxtaposition of nutritional benefits and toxicological risks associated with the consumption of seafood led the FDA to convene a committee to review the role of seafood in the diets of pregnant and lactating women and children, including adolescents, considering both the potentially detrimental components of seafood as well as those that are beneficial, to evaluate their respective, interacting, and complex roles in child development and lifelong health…

Want to learn more about the NASEM report, read this article by Bailee Henderson from Food Safety Magazine: Eat More Fish—NASEM Concludes Study on Role of Seafood in Child Growth and Development

About the Author: Bailee Henderson is the Digital Editor of Food Safety Magazine.

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Similar Posts

Ingredients

For the Firecracker Sauce:

For the Shrimp:

Optional Garnishes:

Instructions

Choose Southstream Seafoods

Choose Southstream Seafoods

Ingredients

For the Blackened Catfish:

For the Mango Avocado Salsa:

Instructions

Preparing the Catfish:

Preparing the Mango Avocado Salsa:

Cooking the Catfish:

Choose Southstream Seafoods

1. Understanding Sustainable Seafood

2. The Nutritional Benefits of Seafood

3. Exploring Global Seafood Delights

4. Seafood for Tailgating and Gatherings

5. Planning Holiday Menus

6. Embracing Simplicity

Choose Southstream Seafoods

Choose Southstream Seafoods

A glimpse into the article:

Eat More Fish—NASEM Concludes Study on Role of Seafood in Child Growth and Development