PMG Engineering | Build World-Class Food Factories | Product

Crustaceans

Crustaceans are a group of arthropods that includes animals such as lobsters, crabs, shrimp, and crayfish. They are typically aquatic or semi-aquatic and can be found in a variety of habitats including oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Crustaceans have a hard exoskeleton that protects their body and provides support for their muscles. They also have jointed limbs and two pairs of antennae. Most crustaceans are scavengers or predators, and many are an important part of the food chain.

Crustaceans are not only important for their ecological role, but also for their economic and culinary value. Many species of crustaceans are harvested for food and can be found in seafood dishes around the world.

The market scope for crustaceans is quite significant, as they are widely consumed as a source of protein in many parts of the world. The global market for crustaceans is driven by factors such as increasing demand for seafood, growth in the aquaculture industry, and raising awareness of the health benefits of seafood consumption.

Lobster, crab, shrimp, and crayfish are some of the most commonly consumed crustaceans, and they are available in a variety of forms such as fresh, frozen, canned, and processed. They are also used as ingredients in many food products such as soups, stews, and salads.

The Asia-Pacific region is the largest market for crustaceans, driven by the growing demand for seafood in countries such as China, Japan, and India. Europe and North America are also significant markets for crustaceans, with a high demand for premium seafood products such as lobster and crab.

The market scope for crustaceans is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by factors such as increasing global population, rising income levels, and growing demand for healthy and sustainable food sources.

There are many players in the market for crustaceans as follows:

a) Thai Union Group

b) Clearwater Seafoods

c) Royal Greenland

d) Dongwon Industries

e) Maruha Nichiro

f) High Liner Food

g) Nippon Suisan Kaisha

Commercial production of crustaceans involves both wild-caught and farmed species. The methods used for the commercial production of crustaceans vary depending on the species, location, and market demand.

a) Wild-Caught: Many species of crustaceans are harvested from the wild, using methods such as traps, nets, and dredges. The wild-caught crustaceans are then either sold directly to consumers or processed into various products such as frozen, canned, or cooked seafood.

b) Aquaculture: Another way to produce crustaceans commercially is through aquaculture, which involves raising crustaceans in controlled environments such as ponds, tanks, or cages. Aquaculture can help meet the growing demand for seafood while also providing a more sustainable source of seafood.

Some of the commonly farmed crustaceans include:

I. Shrimp: Shrimp farming is one of the largest and most widespread forms of crustacean aquaculture. Shrimp are typically farmed in ponds or tanks, and the production cycle takes around 3-4 months.

II. Lobster: Lobster farming is a smaller and more specialized form of aquaculture, mainly in North America and Europe. Lobsters are raised in tanks or outdoor pens, and the production cycle can take up to 3-4 years.

III. Crayfish: Crayfish farming is another form of aquaculture, mainly in Asia and Europe. Crayfish are raised in ponds or tanks, and the production cycle takes around 6-8 months.

The commercial production of crustaceans involves a complex supply chain that includes harvesting, processing, transportation, and distribution. The industry is highly regulated, with various laws and regulations in place to ensure sustainable and responsible practices.