Juneau, Alaska, February 27, 2007 – The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute (ASMI) now offers operators and distributors a new educational tool that explains why wild and sustainable Alaska crab is the perfect choice for years to come.  Through rich photography, the beautifully designed brochure showcases both the wild nature of the harvest and the result: countless great dishes. Indeed, from 40-foot swells, to 20-hour shifts to 700-pound pots, Alaska crab harvesters endure the elements to deliver these treasures of the sea. And because of Alaska's dedication to managing its harvest for sustainability, operators and distributors can be assured that Alaska crab harvesters will continue to deliver a consistent, sustainable supply of high-quality Alaska crab. Furthermore, snow, Dungeness and king crab all command a center-of-plate position and yield impressive profits.
 
The brochure highlights Alaska’s use of state-of-the-art processing techniques to ensure optimum quality and flavor. Since the majority of Alaska crab is pre-cooked, operators benefit from reduced labor costs. Operators can look to the new Alaska crab brochure for information on each species' unique attributes. For example, Alaska king crab receives high marks for its brilliant red/orange shell, sweet and tender snow-white meat and wide range of sizes, whereas Alaska snow crab is described as "among the finest value-based menu items available." Additionally, Alaska Dungeness crab is renowned for its versatility, distinctly sweet and nutty taste and its premium menu price.

Over half of the seafood harvested in the U.S. is from Alaska, where tight regulations ensure the sustained abundance of this prized natural resource.  Consumer awareness of sustainable fisheries is higher than ever and they are expressing a preference for seafood from Alaska. Recent consumer research indicates that 86 percent of restaurant patrons polled chose “Alaska King Crab” over regular king crab on menus.  Alaska king, snow and Dungeness crab are harvested throughout the year providing foodservice operators with these delicious varieties year-round.
 
Alaska is the pioneer of sustainability. Since acceptance into the Union in 1959, Alaska has been the only state in the nation whose constitution mandates that “Fish…be utilized, developed and maintained on the sustained yield principle.” This long-term dedication to sustainability has resulted in keeping the world stocked with a continuous, ever-replenishing supply of wild seafood.  Indeed, Alaska's effective and precise fisheries management practices are considered a model for the world.
 
The Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute is the State of Alaska’s official seafood marketing arm. It is a public agency of the State of Alaska, funded by the Alaska seafood industry. ASMI promotes Alaska seafood throughout the U.S. and in 16 other countries.  ASMI also provides education and training to the seafood industry in food safety and quality assurance practices.    

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Click here to view "Alaska Crab Trade Education" brochure (PDF)

Contact Laura Fleming
800-478-2903