OCI vessels and other harvesters follow strict handling guidelines to ensure that raw material is as fresh as possible when delivered to OCI’s land-based facilities. Chief amongst these measures is the chilling (using ice, ice-water slurry or refrigerated seawater) of harvested fish and shellfish as soon as the catches are brought on board. Upon being off-loaded, inspection procedures are in place to ensure that raw material is of suitable temperature and quality before a plant accepts it for processing.
How do we ensure the quality of our seafood?
We control every aspect of production, from harvest to delivery. As a vertically integrated company, we claim sole responsibility for all aspects of our business. We are presently the largest quota holder in Atlantic Canada. We own and control our own fleet: 8 vessels that follow rigorous standards of sanitation and handling. Our 10 plants are technologically top-class, and we regularly invite outside inspectors in to assess our policies and practices.
You can read more about our Quality Management here.
How do we stand by the quality of our finished products to our customers?
We strive for 100 per cent customer satisfaction with our products. If you are ever unhappy with any aspect of our seafood, please contact us with details of your concern.
What is “frozen at sea,” or FAS, and how does it affect quality?
Our ability to freeze at sea ensures the maximum taste and freshness are sealed into our harvested seafood without compromising quality or convenience for our customers.
How is quality maintained for raw fish and shellfish that are not frozen at sea?
OCI vessels and other harvesters follow strict handling guidelines to ensure that raw material is as fresh as possible when delivered to OCI’s land-based facilities. Chief amongst these measures is the chilling (using ice, ice-water slurry or refrigerated seawater) of harvested fish and shellfish as soon as the catches are brought on board. Upon being off-loaded, inspection procedures are in place to ensure that raw material is of suitable temperature and quality before a plant accepts it for processing.
Quality is important, but how do you balance it with sustainability?
Quality is important—but so is understanding our responsibility to the ocean. OCI strives to meet the highest levels of sustainable fishing. Right now, three of our fisheries (scallops, cooked and peeled shrimp and Yellowtail flounder) have earned Marine Stewardship Council certification, and we continue to work towards our goal of achieving 100% third-party accreditation for all our fisheries by 2013. Please see here for more information on our sustainable practices.
What is hyperbaric processing? How does lobster processed this way compare with fresh lobster?
HyperFresh is a cutting edge technology that utilizes a hyperbaric water filled pressure chamber through which fresh live lobsters are processed. This evenly applied hyperbaric pressure allows meat inside the lobster to separate from the shell while maintaining the integrity of the meat and shell (no cracked or broken lobsters). This unique system offers you superior texture, appearance and a safer product with which to create delicious lobster meal solutions.
How do our vessels meet our high standards for quality?
Our fleet follows clear and demanding procedures for the handling of fish, sanitation of vessels and the hygienic practices of the crews. Raw material purchased from non-OCI harvesters is subject to handling conditions we prescribe and is rigorously inspected before getting accepted at our plants. These measures ensure that the raw material delivered to processing facilities or the finished products packaged on board are of the highest possible quality.
How do your processing facilities ensure the quality of your finished product?
Our processing facilities are amongst the best in the world, and all operate under the federally-legislated Quality Management Program, which incorporates the principles of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP). Every step of production follows detailed procedures, and plants have dedicated quality control teams on-site. OCI corporate Quality Assurance conducts internal audits at all facilities to ensure compliance with company standards. In addition, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency audits each facility’s QMP to ensure that plants comply with federal regulations.