ABSTRACT
Depuration of shellfish is a new industry in Canada. In the Atlantic Provinces development of depuration technology started in the late 1970's with actual commercial production commencing in 1983 using container relaying. This technique was abandoned after three years as it was adversely affected by higher than anticipated costs and Paralytic shellfish poisoning blooms. In 1984, land based depuration was initiated using only the soft shell clam, Myaarenaria. Presently there are two registered production facilities in Atlantic Canada both of which are located in New Brunswick. A number of trial projects have been initiated in British Columbia but none presently exist as a commercial venture. During transport to the depuration facility, the temperature of shellstock must be controlled to provide an optimum response to depuration. Shellfish are culled and washed prior to transportation. Depuration facilities presently active have performed very well.
