Scottish shellfish farmers prepare for Christmas surge in demand for mussels

In previous years, mussel sales at the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group increased by 25 per cent in volume compared to normal levels in the two weeks prior to Christmas, sparking an incredibly busy period for Scotland’s shellfish farmers as they harvest their rope-cultivated mussels in often atrocious weather conditions to meet consumer demand.

According to Stephen Cameron, managing director of SSMG, consumers are increasingly regarding mussels as a versatile alternative to other more traditional Christmas fare.

“In recent years, mussel sales have shown a distinct peak in the run-up to Christmas, which makes it one of our busiest times of the year,” he says. “One of the major attractions is the fact that mussels are very easy to cook and are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, making it an ideal meal that all the family can enjoy.”

Scottish rope-grown mussels also have strong appeal amongst environmentally conscious consumers because of the sustainable way in which they are cultivated. Last year, mussels from SSMG farms became the first farmed seafood in the UK to achieve Friend of the Sea certification providing independent confirmation of sustainability and minimal environmental impact.

SSMG farms have also successfully completed the pre-assessment phase for the flagship Marine Stewardship Council standard as a well-managed, sustainable and environmentally responsible operation. Farms are now currently undergoing the full MSC assessment process with completion due in early 2012.