Pond to plate, A healthy momentum
Pacific Ocean Culture (POC), a leader in seafood production, donated 45 kilograms of freshly farmed prawns and fish to Navua Hospital.
And they will continue to, says company spokeswoman Cathy Joyce.
The gesture was an extension of gratitude to frontliners for their effort in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, she said. “Nutritious meals will help sustain the team during this time.
“We understand how much Fijians enjoy local grown seafood.”
Ms Joyce said the Navua-based awardwinning aquaculture farm’s donation fed 84 workers.
“Now that we have opened our communications with key personnel at the hospital, we shall liaise with them regarding their upcoming menu planning and donate where appropriate.”
POC is said to be the largest operational aquaculture facility in Fiji.
“We have demonstrated success in all facets of the supply chain, overseeing the entire process from hatchery, grow out, harvest, processing and sales.”
Productions capability
Ms Joyce said POC’s production capability resulted in a decrease in imports for Fiji.
In a world of depleting fish stocks and nutritional food security issues, POC churns out premium farmed produce to promote Fijian made products, she said.
Creating employment
POC creates direct employment in rural Navua, employing 80 per cent female workforce from the area, while generating economic spin-off to supporting industries within the community, Ms Joyce said. “During these times, food security needs are optimal.
“We are focusing on greater promotion and supply of nutritious affordable food to the domestic market.”
Ms Joyce said POC adjusted pricing to respond to the change in circumstances. POC released a loyalty rewards card to encourage families to choose healthy eating options within their budget, she said.
Expansion plans
POC has plans to expand, even as it produces over 50 tonnes of prawns and 200 tonnes of finfish annually, Ms Joyce said. In 2019, POC scooped the Prime Minister’s Excellence in Business Awards for Primary Industry.
The award was a recognition of the company’s champion aquaculture choice in food security option for Fiji, Ms Joyce said.
POC is driven to enable nutritious food alternatives, rural employment and sustainable climate resistance.