Status of sanitation and marketing of mollusc in the Philippines

Abstract

The mollusc industry of the Philippines has contributed to the economic development of the country in terms of food production and dollar earning. The industry has continuously provided cheap but nutritious shellfishes. Production was 22, 528 MT in 1981 which increased to 41,700 MT in 1985. Shellfish and shellcraft products exported in 1987 earned an estimated US$ 26.55 million.

Producing of mollusc for food has not been a fully exploited activity area. Areas suitable for oyster and mussel farming have been underutilized. One reason for the underutilization of potential farming areas is the lack of efficient marketing and processing facilities and appropriate strategies that will encourage more consumption of shellfish. Specifically, the quality of shellfish must be improved through better harvesting, post-harvest/processing techniques and an efficient distribution system.