Benefits of Certified Maine Lobster
A Sustainable Fishery
Maine is the world leader in sustainable lobster fishing practices. As a result the lobster population is strong and the catch remains steady year to year. The World Wildlife Fund is currently supporting the Maine Lobster fishery in its application for Marine Stewardship Council certification, due to conservation practices such as:
• Size limits—Maine lobstermen use a gauge to measure the body of the lobster, throwing back lobsters under 3-1/4 inches (so they can grow to maturity and breed) and over 5 inches (considered to be good breeding stock).
• Female V notching— A female with visible eggs on her tail can't be kept. Before tossing her back, the harvester notches her tail to identify her as a good breeder. Lobsters with notched tails must be returned to the water even if they're not showing eggs.
• Trap limits—there are statewide as well as local limits to the number of traps, preventing overfishing.
• Trap design—traps are designed with escape hatches for small lobsters and biodegradable escape hatches so that lost traps aren't a hazard.
• Apprenticing—new lobstermen are required to apprentice with veterans to learn these regulations as well as the ethos of Maine Lobster fishing.
Taste
Maine's lobsters are broadly recognized as being the most delicious lobster in the world:
• Sweeter taste—Maine's lobster, especially the new shell variety, is sweeter than other lobster.
• Texture—Maine lobster has a more tender texture than other lobster, with a distinct snap to the meat, while other lobster, especially warm water varieties can be tough or chewy.
• Size—most Maine lobster tends to come in the 1 to 1.5 lb variety, primarily due to the sustainability practices discussed above. This size lobster is far more sweet and tender than larger lobsters caught in places that are not as concerned with sustainable fishing.
Brand
Research shows that Maine Lobster is the strongest food brand in the world. Consumers know Maine Lobster stands for:
• Quality—the best tasting lobster in the world.
• Sustainability—the Maine Lobstermen have worked together with the state to create exemplary sustainable fishing practices.
• Heritage—Hardworking Maine lobstermen who take pride in their work and care for their catch
• Natural beauty—Maine is recognized as home to pristine, cold waters, and natural, healthy food.
Maine Lobster is a product of the USA
Maine lobster is a great industry that can't be outsourced overseas.