B.C. shellfish growers tap BlueTrace to help them comply with new regulations

British Columbia Shellfish Growers Association hopes the technology will help prevent Vibrio and Norovirus outbreaks

The British Columbia Shellfish Growers Association is partnering with Maine-based traceability and food safety company BlueTrace to help track its supplies of oysters, clams, mussels, scallops and geoducks.

The initiative involves bolstering and standardizing tagging and traceability requirements for shellfish businesses. With greater supply-chain visibility, regulators can more quickly and precisely identify the source of any tainted product, which minimizes costly recalls and keeps consumers safe.

“It is important for the industry to stay vigilant in a time of rising temperatures. A digitized traceability system for the entire industry raises the bar on food safety and ensures that our members can build their businesses without drowning in paperwork,” said Nico Prins, executive director at BCSGA.

BCSGA membership includes growers, harvesters, processors and industry supporters and vendors. The Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada is stepping up its efforts at supply chain traceability to help prevent and react to outbreaks of

“We are excited to help these innovative farmers continue to develop a safe, and prosperous industry,” said Chip Terry, Ph.D., CEO of Maine-based traceability and food safety company BlueTrace.

Shellfishiency: Oyster farmers step boldly into the digital age

Utilized by more than 150 shellfish businesses across North America, BlueTrace develops technology that allows anyone dealing in shellfish to easily comply with federal, state and/or provincial regulations. A combination of apps and printers saves shellfish growers and dealers time by reducing redundant data entry and expediting tagging and logging.

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