Southstream Seafoods

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

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

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: Openblue.

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.

Infographic designed by DSM.

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.

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 Seafood Nutrition.

Quick 20-Minute Lemon & Herb Cape Hake Recipe: Easy and Irresistible

Quick 20-Minute Lemon & Herb Cape Hake Recipe: Easy and Irresistible

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: Marine Stewardship Council. Get the recipe here.

Southstream Seafoods’ I&J Cape Hake is renowned for its delicate, flaky texture and mild, buttery flavor. This high-quality fish is ideal for various cooking techniques, from pan frying to grilling, and is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a nutritious addition to any menu.

Looking to enhance your menu with a flavorful and health-conscious option? Our Pan-Fried Lemon & Herb Cape Hake recipe is the perfect choice. This dish combines the crispiness of pan-fried hake with a zesty lemon-herb sauce, offering a delightful dining experience. It’s an excellent selection for food distributors, restaurants, and healthcare facilities, providing a delectable and nutritious meal that your clients will love.

Ingredients:

  • 200g Southstream’s I&J Cape Hake Fillets, skin on and deboned
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped spring onion
  • 60g butter
  • 1/2 lemon, pips removed
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup mushrooms
  • 250g egg noodles

Instructions:

  1. Cook the Stir-Fry: In a frying pan, heat a small amount of butter over medium heat. Add chopped spring onions and mushrooms, cooking until soft, stirring occasionally.
  2. Season the Cape Hake: Season the Cape Hake fillets with salt and pepper. In a large frying pan, heat the remaining butter over medium heat and add the seasoned Cape Hake fillets, skin side down.
  3. Make the Cape Hake: Cook for 2–3 minutes until the skin starts to crisp. Add a bit more butter around each fillet and cook for another minute until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same frying pan, add 30g of butter and let it melt gently over moderate heat. Once melted, squeeze in the lemon juice and add the chopped parsley, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the sauce over the Cape Hake fillets.
  5. Serve: Plate the pan-fried Cape Hake fillets with the egg noodle stir-fry on the side. Incorporate the frozen peas and stir until heated through. Season with paprika, garlic salt, salt, and pepper. Add the egg noodles, mixing everything together. Cook for 3–5 minutes, then set the stir-fry aside.

Choose Southstream Seafoods

At Southstream Seafoods, we are dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood to meet the diverse needs of hospitals, retirement homes, and restaurants. Our brands, including Frostmark™, Thorfish, and I&J, are synonymous with excellence and sustainability. Explore our range of premium seafood products on our website or contact us at sales@southstream.com for more information.

This recipe is from Marine Stewardship Council: Pan-fried Lemon & Herb Cape Hake with Egg Noodle Stir-Fry.

Why There Is Nutritional Value In Eating Seafood

Why There Is Nutritional Value In Eating Seafood

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: City of Hope.

Fish is an essential part of a balanced diet, and experts recommend consuming two servings of four ounces each, or one serving of eight ounces, per week. According to UnityPoint Health dietitian Miriam Troutner, including fish in your diet offers numerous health benefits, thanks in large part to the omega-3 fatty acids found in many fish species. At Southstream Seafoods, we offer high-quality options like cod, pollock, and haddock that are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients beneficial to your customers’ health.

The Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

One of the standout features of these fish is their omega-3 fatty acid content. Omega-3s are essential fats that our bodies need but cannot produce on their own. They play a significant role in heart health by lowering triglycerides, reducing inflammation, and decreasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. This makes fish a crucial component of any diet, especially in healthcare settings where promoting heart health is a priority.

In addition to cardiovascular benefits, omega-3s support brain health and enhance eye function. These fish are also lower in mercury compared to other species, making them a safer choice for various consumers, including pregnant women and children.

Health Benefits for the Healthcare Sector

In the healthcare industry, providing patients with nutrient-dense meals is crucial for recovery and overall health. The high protein content in cod, pollock, and haddock helps maintain muscle mass, especially in older adults, while their low-fat content makes them an excellent choice for managing weight and cholesterol levels.

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.

This information is referenced from an article provided by UnityPoint Health.

Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Sticks: The Ultimate Addition To Your Menu

Crunchy Air Fryer Fish Sticks: The Ultimate Addition To Your Menu

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: DishonFish. Get the recipe here.

Southstream Seafoods Frostmark Atlantic Cod is one of the most popular and recognized fish in the Western world, known for its white, moist meat, large flake, and mild flavor. This versatile fish is low in fat and high in protein, making it an ideal choice for various cooking methods such as baking, pan frying, deep frying, poaching, or broiling. Popular applications include fish and chips, casseroles, and chowders, highlighting its adaptability in different cuisines.

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy option to add to your menu? This crunchy air fryer fish sticks recipe, made with our premium Frostmark Atlantic Cod, is the perfect choice. Fish sticks are a classic dish that is quick to prepare and always delicious. This versatile dish is ideal for food distributors, restaurants, and healthcare industries, offering a nutritious and convenient meal option that is sure to please your customers.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Southstream’s Frostmark Atlantic Cod, cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup plain kefir
  • ½ cup whole wheat flour (or yellow cornmeal to make gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • Lemon slices, for garnish
  • Tartar or other fish stick dipping sauce, if desired

Instructions:

  1. Marinate the Fish: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg and kefir. Add the fish strips and let them marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: While the fish is marinating, spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and preheat it for about 4 minutes at 400°F.
  3. Prepare the Coating: In another shallow bowl or pan, mix the flour or cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.
  4. Coat the Fish: Using a fork, lift a piece of fish out of the marinade and press it into the flour or cornmeal mixture until well-coated. Repeat with each piece of fish.
  5. Air Fry the Fish: Place the coated fish strips in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overlap; cook in batches if necessary). Lightly spray the coated fish with cooking spray until the coating is moist.
  6. Cook the Fish: Return the basket to the air fryer and cook the fish for 5 minutes. Open the basket, flip the fish pieces, and spray with cooking spray. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
  7. Serve: Serve the fish sticks with lemon slices and your favorite dipping sauce.
Source: DishonFish. Get the recipe here.

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.

This recipe is from Dish on Fish: Air Fryer Fish Sticks.

The Magnesium Benefits of Eating Seafood You Need to Know

The Magnesium Benefits of Eating Seafood You Need to Know

BySouthstream Seafood

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.

Irresistible Cape Hake in a Rich White Wine Sauce

Irresistible Cape Hake in a Rich White Wine Sauce

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: Pescanova USA. Get the recipe here.

If you’re looking to impress your customers with a fresh and elegant seafood dish, look no further than this Cape Hake with scallops and white wine sauce recipe. The fresh taste of Southstream’s Cape Hake, combined with succulent scallops and a rich, creamy honey and white wine sauce, creates a flavorful dish. This recipe not only highlights the premium quality of Southstream’s seafood but also provides a sophisticated yet comforting dining experience.

This Cape Hake with scallops and white wine sauce is a flavorful addition to any menu. By using Southstream’s premium Cape Hake, you ensure high-quality, mouthwatering results every time. This recipe is ideal for food distributors, healthcare facilities, and restaurants looking to enhance their menus with a crowd-pleasing seafood option. Add this delicious dish to your offerings and watch your customers come back for more.

Ingredients

  • 4 Southstream’s Cape Hake fillets
  • 1 bag of scallops
  • 4 ounces of white wine
  • 7 ounces of cooking cream
  • 2 ounces honey
  • 1 tablespoon of flour
  • 3.5 ounces of leek, finely chopped
  • 1 pinch of white pepper
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • Olive oil

Instructions

  1. Defrost the Seafood: Begin by defrosting the scallops and Cape Hake fillets to ensure even cooking.
  2. Prep the Cape Hake: Coat the Cape Hake fillets with a mix of salt, pepper, and flour. This helps to create a light, crispy exterior.
  3. Prep the Scallops: Similarly, coat the scallops with flour for a delicate crust.
  4. Cook the Cape Hake: In a frying pan, cover the bottom with olive oil and cook the Cape Hake fillets for 1 minute on each side. Once cooked, remove, drain, and set aside.
  5. Cook the Scallops: In the same frying pan, cook the scallops similarly to the Cape Hake and then set them aside.
  6. Sauté the Leeks: Strain the oil from the frying pan into another pan and sauté the finely chopped leek until soft but not browned.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Add the Cape Hake and scallops back into the pan with the leeks.
  8. Add White Wine: Pour in the white wine and let it reduce, infusing the seafood with a rich, aromatic flavor.
  9. Add Cooking Cream: Lower the heat, add the cooking cream, and stir to combine. Season with a pinch of salt.
  10. Sweeten the Sauce: Add the honey to the sauce, stirring well to incorporate its sweetness.
  11. Finish Cooking: Allow the sauce to cook for a few minutes until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
  12. Serve: Plate the Cape Hake and scallops, generously drizzling the white wine sauce over the top. Serve immediately for a fresh, comforting seafood experience.

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.

This recipe is from Pescanova USA: Cape Hake with Scallops and White Wine Sauce.

Easy Summer Recipe | Blackened Catfish with Vibrant Mango Avocado Salsa

Easy Summer Recipe | Blackened Catfish with Vibrant Mango Avocado Salsa

BySouthstream Seafood
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:
  1. Combine the oregano, cumin, paprika, pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
  2. Rub this mixture evenly over the catfish fillets.
  3. Refrigerate the seasoned fillets for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparing the Mango Avocado Salsa:
  1. While the catfish is marinating, mix the mango, avocado, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and the remaining salt and pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Chill the salsa in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Cooking the Catfish:
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. 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.
  3. Serve the hot catfish fillets topped with the chilled mango avocado salsa.

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.

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

Celebrate Independence Day with this Quick & Easy Firecracker Shrimp Recipe

Celebrate Independence Day with this Quick & Easy Firecracker Shrimp Recipe

BySouthstream Seafood
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.

Source: A Farmgirls Dabbles. Get the recipe here.

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

  1. Prepare the Firecracker Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.

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.

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

Air Fryer Parmesan Cod: A Healthy and Easy Recipe for a Mouthwatering Meal

Air Fryer Parmesan Cod: A Healthy and Easy Recipe for a Mouthwatering Meal

BySouthstream Seafood
Source: The Recipe Critic. Get the recipe here.

Introducing a must-have for your menu: Air Fried Parmesan Cod featuring Southstream Seafoods’ premium frozen Alaskan Cod. This recipe is a game-changer, delivering a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, flaky inside that will delight your customers. Pair your Breaded Alaskan Cod with fresh lemon wedges, a crisp green salad, and homemade tartar sauce or garlic aioli.

This dish is perfect for food distributors, healthcare facilities, and restaurants looking to enhance their menus with a crowd-pleasing seafood option. Elevate your offerings with this irresistible dish that promises to captivate diners and keep them coming back for more.

Source: The Recipe Critic. Get the recipe here.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Southstream’s frozen Alaskan cod fillets
  • Salt and pepper
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil spray (if needed)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Cod: Start by salting and peppering the cod fillets to taste.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: Create a breading station with three bowls.
    • Bowl 1: Add flour.
    • Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and salt.
    • Bowl 3: Combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder.
  3. Bread the Cod:
    • First: Dip the cod in the flour, coating it lightly.
    • Second: Dip the flour-coated cod into the egg mixture.
    • Third: Coat the cod with the Panko mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
  4. Air Fry the Cod:
    • Spray the bottom of your air fryer basket with olive oil.
    • Place the breaded cod fillets in the basket.
    • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
    • Carefully flip the fish and continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

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.

This recipe is from The Recipe Critic: Incredible Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Cod

Traversing Policy: Southstream Seafoods’ Contribution to the Farm Bill

Traversing Policy: Southstream Seafoods’ Contribution to the Farm Bill

BySouthstream Seafood

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.