The Florida Oyster Trading Company
OUR STORY Oysters are not simply a commodity; for many Americans, they symbolize a way of life. Sadly over the past decade, natural oyster reefs and subsequent wild harvests have dramatically declined to a fraction of historic levels. This trend has necessitated the need for an alternative source – aquaculture or farming of the seas. Aquaculture is a sustainable method of producing protein for a growing global population and relieves harvest pressure on the wild populations. In some cases, such as oysters, the extensive process provides ecological benefits that improve the quality of entire ecosystems. The Gulf coast oyster aquaculture industry is burgeoning but experiencing bottlenecks. Lack of consistent, quality seed availability limits industry-wide development and puts farms at financial risk. In response, FOC has developed an innovative, patent-pending model to self-sufficiently produce oysters available to help farms aspiring to produce mass volume but cannot due to an inconsistent supply chain. This production model is breaking the chain of globalizing an antiquated concept and bringing fire to the people. Most importantly, FOC is championing seafood integrity. Goods and services available through the Florida Oyster Trading Company will be authentic products of their environments, utilizing genetics from the estuaries where the harvests are grown – not outsourced from other bays or even states. Florida seed spawned with Florida broodstock to be raised in the same Florida estuaries, certified by Florida's Division of Aquaculture Best Management Practices protocols and standards. Adhering to the highest of standards. The Florida Oyster Trading Company - Authentic, Craft Oysters