Is farmed shellfish different from wild shellfish?
Farmed and wild shellfish have the same ancestors. There is very little difference between wild and cultured shellfish, as shellfish spat were originally harvested and are still harvested from the wild. The goal of the aquaculture industry is to meet or exceed consumer expectations for food quality and safety. Consequently, the farming, handling and processing of farmed shellfish are carried out under controlled conditions in a manner that is considered humane and to have the greatest benefit for subsequent quality, safety and traceability.
