Why Canada has ordered lobster pounds to kill all egg-bearing female lobsters
Some operators unaware of requirement, which was quietly introduced 2 years ago
In an effort to reduce the spread of marine invasive species, Canada ordered lobster pounds to euthanize all egg-bearing female lobsters. But two years after the measure was introduced, some in the business are still unaware of the requirement.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has banned the long-held practice of releasing egg-bearing or "berried" female lobsters when they are discovered in holding facilities.
Instead pounds "must immediately euthanize the lobster," according to licence conditions quietly introduced in January 2022.
"The licence holder/operator is prohibited from releasing any egg-bearing female lobster into any lobster fishing area," the conditions state.
DFO said in a statement the licence conditions "support conservation by reducing the risk of parasites, diseases, invasive species or the introduction of genetic differences in lobster populations.
"Fish, including lobster, should not be returned to the water in cases where it is not possible to determine where the fish originated from," spokesperson Lauren Sankey said.
Osborne Burke is president of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance and general manager of Victoria Co-operative Fisheries. (Matthew Moore/CBC)
The statement alludes to a reality in the East Coast lobster business: lobsters caught in one province, and Maine, can be moved and stored — sometimes for weeks or months — in holding facilities in another province.
Still, the requirement came as a surprise to Osborne Burke, president of the Nova Scotia Seafood Alliance and general manager of Victoria Fisheries Co-operative, a shellfish processor that holds about 1.5 million pounds of lobster during the short season in Cape Breton.
He only recently learned about the conditions when they were brought to his attention by another pound operator, and he checked the co-op's 2024 federal licence.
"The procedure's always been to remove the bands and release the lobster," he said. "So it's a bit shocking to see that DFO is directing us to euthanize any egg-bearing females. We're still waiting for clarification from the DFO on the method of euthanization. Do you put it in a pot of boiling water and eat it? I don't think that's what they want."
Linda Campbell is a professor of environmental science at Saint Mary's University. (Craig Paisley/CBC)
Linda Campbell, an environmental scientist at Saint Mary's University in Halifax, said controlling the spread of invasive species is never easy.
"The challenge with invasive species is that you do need to prevent the mobility, and doing that is doing surveillance. And you do have to make some tough decisions along the way. And the decision is best made in partnership with different organizations and people who are involved with these actions and those industries," Campbell said.
Burke said that did not happen in this case.
"Where was the consultation? Where was any information in advance? Just change the conditions and send them out," he said.
"In our case, we don't bring lobsters in from other areas."
Stewart Lamont, of Tangier Lobster, agrees the euthanasia requirement for berried lobster is not widely known in the industry.
"This is a wake-up call. There needs to be better communication between DFO and the shore-based processors," he said.
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684 Comments Then shut down early
David Amos
That makes no sense to me
Noel Fowles
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Reply to David Amos
this doesn't surprise me
David Amos
Content Deactivated
Reply to Noel Fowles
Methinks you should not be surprised that somebody should speak in defense of all the unborn lobsters N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Content Deactivated
Reply to Noel Fowles
It doesn't surprise me that my reply to you was not permitted
Noel Fowles.
Reply to David Amos
report comments often?
Joe Zilch
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Farmers on land and sea under gov't attack.
Leave the food supply alone, the farmers know what too do.
Support the German farmers.
David Amos
Reply to Joe Zilch
I second that emotion
Dan Deso
Reply to Joe Zilch
So they should just dump invasive species wherever they want?
Jay Mann
Reply to Joe Zilch
Last I heard, lobsters were collected from the wild, not farmed.
Mike Fowler
Reply to Jay Mann
Not important.
Give more welfare to farmers - that's what Joe is posting every day on here.
Anything less is globalist or something.
Government transparency is nonexistent. We don't have to explain nothin'.. just do what we say!
David Amos
Reply to Steve MacDonald
Par for the course
Dan Deso
Reply to Steve MacDonald
It's pretty well explained above.
Doug Allan
Reply to Dan Deso
What’s not explained is why the decision was made without consultation and why the government, having made the decision, didn’t make much effort to ensure those affected by it were aware of it.
Dan Deso
Reply to Doug Allan
Where does it say it was done without consultation?
I know when I renew my fishing and hunting license I review all documents that come with it and is available through the ministry. But I also don't need the government to hold my hand as an adult. To each their own though.
Doug Allan
Reply to Dan Deso
Read the four paragraphs below the picture of Linda Campbell.
Dan Deso
Reply to Doug Allan
So they didn't consult with the "general manager of Victoria Fisheries Co-operative, a shellfish processor"?
And? What qualifies him to advise on controlling the spread of invasive species?
Dan Deso
Reply to Doug Allan
Also, sorry but if he is not even thorough enough to check his license when it's renewed who's to say he'd research enough to get a good understanding of the risks?
IMHO... any spread of undesirables already occurs in the normal habitat of lobsters rather than exclusively in holding facilities. It would seem killing egg-bearing female lobsters are actions taken
after-the-fact... or too late in the catching and processing of any species from the ocean. If those parasites and invasive species are a problem, any activity taken following the catch and storage of live
lobsters cannot stop something that already exists in the ocean. There are too many missing scientific specificities too suddenly impact an industry already following self-imposed historic methods to protect
the lobsters and the provision of food and income for many. Is this a knee-jerk reaction to a theory rather than fact?
Noel Fowles
Reply to Ray Muise
Perhaps you missed the fact that the lobsters in the pound can come from many different locations.
David Amos
Reply to Noel Fowles
So???
Noel Fowles
Reply to David Amos
oh dear
Billy Elliott
Is it more common that lobsters being caught are being processed in the areas to which originated? If this was about invasive species, this sounds like an academic approach rather than practical solution.
Perhaps all lobsters should be processed in their own LFA district, rather than risking invasive species and terminating egg bearing female.
David Amos
Reply to Billy Elliott
Its bureaucratic nonsense
Lobsters as a species cover the entire eastern seaboard. Catching one in Maine and having to destroy it in New Brunswick because "invasive species" is something that could only be thought up by a bureaucracy somewhere.
The only invasive species in this whole story is the human species.
David Amos
Reply to Gary Mickle
Amen
Peter Hill
Reply to Gary Mickle
So you’re against science.
jesus.....even poachers throw back females........
David Amos
Reply to Dan Lee
Yup
Dan Deso
Reply to Dan Lee
When caught yes. Go back and read the whole article to understand the details.
"DFO said in a statement the licence conditions "support conservation by reducing the risk of parasites, diseases, invasive species or the introduction of genetic differences in lobster populations."
_______
Wow, they need better PR.. because killing egg bearing females is not a very good public image for conservation...
If the lobster were kept in water, what do they do with the water?
Release the water back into the waterways? Does the water have to be treated? That must really help prevent parasitic and disease spreading if the water is not treated..(sarcasm)
Is there that much genetic differences between different lobster population that you don't want genetic mixing? Is DFO going to change its stance once the lobster becomes a rarity due to climate change and
have all migrated North? It is not like European lobsters are being introduced in North American waters..
Reply to Koffi Babone
Well put
Sebastian Leblanc
""The challenge with invasive species is that you do need to prevent the mobility, and doing that is doing surveillance. And you do have to make some tough decisions along the way. And the decision is best made in partnership with different organizations and people who are involved with these actions and those industries."
Aren't we trying to increase the population?
David Amos
Reply to Sebastian Leblanc
Good Question
Dan Deso
Reply to Sebastian Leblanc
In the areas the species was caught, yes. We are not trying to increase the population of an invasive species in other areas.
daveburris
There has to be more to the story, if they are in a holding tank, they have already passed on whatever diseases they might have, which has not ever been an issue until a couple of years ago, and apparently it
wasn't much of an issue then, or the industry would have been warned day and night, as is the usual case when there is an environmental issue. But it was all very low key.
And the DFO wants all egg-bearing female lobsters destroyed, whether there is any problem or not. Doesn't sound great for lobster conservation.
If they absolutely must be destroyed, as the guy said, "Don't you put them in a pot and boil them" And the shells go to the garbage, nothing goes back to the water. Not only that but the same thing happens to
every lobster in the holding tank. they don't go back to the water.
So what am I missing?
BTW, is DFO enforcing the elver regulations? The seasonal regulations on lobsters among the various interests catching lobsters?
David Amos
Reply to daveburris
"So what am I missing?"
The DFO attempting to be important
Joseph Gordon
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the lobsters should be provided with government ID/ passport, that way they would know where they are from and be returned :)
Sebastian Leblanc
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Reply to Joseph Gordon
Must be the Roxham Road of the lobster-world.
David Amos
Reply to Joseph Gordon
The Feds are no doubt considering it
Julia LeBeau
Oh, my goodness. Sounds like the government wants to ID all the
creatures in the ocean to make sure they are where they're supposed to
be. Another sign that Canada has far too much bureaucracy.
David Amos
Reply to Julia LeBeau
I concur
Van Collins
So..... if the industry hasn't been meeting DFOs BMPs for years, the
damage is already done.
What's more damaging to the industry?
Less eggs and less lobsters, or the risk of "parasites, diseases, invasive species or the introduction of genetic differences in lobster populations"?
Is this about the protection of lobster species or an industry?
I know what DFO will say.
I know what the industry would say.
Reply to Van Collins
Me Too
Jonathan Richard
I didn’t realize a lobster from the Atlantic Ocean being released back in the Atlantic Ocean was a big deal. Is the Atlantic Ocean off of maine that much different than north P.E.I.? Just a crazy, illegitimate government rule as usual.
Van Collins
Reply to Jonathan Richard
I'm sure DFO could point out a small difference in leg length, claw shape, or pigment from a lobster 30km away from another, but it sounds like it's irrelevant now. The number of egged females dumped back in different location for years has likely mixed them up already.
David Amos
Reply to Van Collins
Of course
Kevin MacDonald
"This is a wake-up call. There needs to be better communication between DFO and the shore-based processors," he said.
Right, just another day in the industry of none compliance and ignorance.
Jose Sartoz
Reply to Kevin MacDonald
Agreed
joe press
Reply to Kevin MacDonald
Why not just process them for human consumption?
Joe LeBlanc
Reply to joe press
It is likely the worry of what ever the issue is spreading around to all the lobsters in the tanks.
David Sampson
Reply to Kevin MacDonald
The “ industry “ is not ignorant nor noncompliant Kevin, DFO has a sorrowful history of missteps and failure to communicate with those in the industry. Fishermen are extremely sensitive to issues concerning stock sustainability and processors re extremely compliant with allthe rules and regulations. The bureaucrats are the problem not the people working in the industry.
joe press
Reply to joe press
...cultivated lobster caviar [a little bit crunchy but tasty nonetheless].
Kevin MacDonald
Reply to David Sampson
David, that's what you said about the safety also. Always somebody else eh?
David Sampson
Reply to Kevin MacDonald
Not sure why you dislike fishermen to the extent you do Kevin. There are rouge boat operators and rouge industry operators and non licensed fishermen that give the business a bad name. You seem to focus on only those extremely few noncompliant people that unfortunately can be found in every industry! I would put my trust in fishermen sooner than bureaucrats or politicians! Indeed, I am honoured to have dozens as personal and close friends.
Van Collins
Reply to Kevin MacDonald
Every commercial fishermen I've met seems to be very responsible.
They do what's right because they know if hey don't, they'll be out of a job.
Like in any industry, there are those that do the right thing and those that exploit every way they can. There are far more that do the right thing and those in the wrong, and those in the wrong would rather be caught by DFO than the others.
Sebastian Leblanc
Reply to Joe LeBlanc
Market the lobster-eggs as Nova Scotia caviar.
David Amos
Reply to Sebastian Leblanc
Excellent idea if you want no more lobsters
Doug Allan
Reply to David Amos
Killing all the females with eggs is going to lead to no more lobsters anyway, so…
Can You Eat Lobster Eggs?
If you’re on our website, you probably share our love for all things seafood—especially delectable lobster meat from the cold waters of Maine. Today, we’re discussing a part of lobsters that is often forgotten to answer a commonly asked question: Can you eat lobster eggs? Grab your bib because we’re going to dive deep into the details of this premium delicacy.
Page Contents
What Are the Parts of a Maine Lobster?
Before we uncover the answer to “Can you eat lobster eggs?”, let’s get acquainted with the parts of a Maine lobster:
Claws
Maine lobsters are the big bosses of claws, sporting a crusher claw and a ripper claw. The crusher claw, as the name suggests, is a heavyweight champ designed to break shells and crush its meals. On the other hand, the ripper claw is nimble and great at tearing flesh.
Lobster Tail
When it comes to seafood, lobster tail stands out as one of the most delicious delicacies. It’s known for its abundance of meat, and it’s remarkably easy to work with. If you’re a fan of tender, slightly chewy meat, this is the part you want to eat.
Head, Body, and Shell
Don’t want to let any part go to waste? Don’t worry; the lobster’s head, body, and shell all have edible goodness to offer. You’ll find rib meat tucked between the delicate layers of the body.
Roe (Eggs)
Lobster eggs are also known as roe. These little delicacies are hidden treasures found inside the female lobster. But hold that thought; we’ll get to them in a minute.
Congealed Blood
In case you stumble upon dark residue in your lobster, don’t fret. It’s simply congealed blood and not harmful. Many lobster enthusiasts savor the flavor of this dark liquid, but it’s optional.
Tomalley
Lobster tomalley, often referred to as the lobster’s liver and pancreas, is a greenish gooey substance found in the body cavity. Some adore it, some shy away, and others blend it into other dishes for an extra burst of lobster goodness.
Can You Eat Lobster Eggs?
The big question: Can you eat lobster eggs? Yes, you absolutely can! Lobster eggs, often referred to as lobster roe, are entirely edible. These petite treasures are extracted from the female lobster after she lays her eggs. After harvesting, they are meticulously cleaned and processed into many delectable forms, including caviar, jelly, and even fertilizer.
What Do Lobster Eggs Taste Like?
If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying them, lobster eggs are a real treat for your taste buds. Lobster eggs boast a robust flavor profile with a hint of sweetness. They’re a bit like the ocean’s version of a luxurious delicacy. The texture is incredibly smooth, almost liquid, making them a delightful addition to various dishes.
Best Recipes for Lobster Eggs
If you’re eager to savor the exquisite taste of lobster eggs, here are a couple of recipes to consider:
Lobster Benedict
Start your day right with this mouthwatering breakfast option. Toast English muffins, heat up your lobsters, and poach some eggs. Arrange the poached eggs on the muffins and add a touch of decadence with melted butter for a proper Lobster Benedict.
Lobster Muffins
For a twist on the classic English muffin, prepare a dough with flour, yeast, and salt. Cook the muffins and add lobster meat, plus poached eggs seasoned with butter, salt, lemon juice, and cayenne. Top your Lobster Muffins off with some spinach for a vibrant touch.
Health Benefits of Lobster Eggs
Lobster eggs come loaded with nutritional goodness, including:
- Iron
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Magnesium
- Sulfur
- Proteins (essential and non-essential amino acids)
- Healthy fats (omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids)
These nutrients make lobster eggs not only delicious but also a source of essential elements for your well-being.
Final Words on “Can You Eat Lobster Eggs?”
In conclusion, the answer to “Can you eat lobster eggs?” is a resounding yes! These seafood jewels offer a delightful blend of flavors and a treasure trove of nutrients. So, next time you indulge in a lobster feast, don’t forget to savor the lobster eggs – a true delicacy from the deep!
Learn more about this seafood delicacy on our blog, loaded with recipes, tips, and tricks on all-things-lobster.
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