USA – Blue Star Foods Corp is fronting advancements in the soft-shell crab industry and the broader seafood sector by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Ultraviolet (UV) light technologies.
According to Blue Star Foods, this approach aims to overhaul the traditional molting crab identification process, which has long been plagued by inefficiencies and errors, leading to high mortality rates and operational challenges.
The timing of the molting stage is crucial in the soft-shell crab production cycle. Currently, the manual identification process is slow and prone to errors, particularly during night shifts when molting rates are higher.
This increases the likelihood of missed molting events, adversely affecting survival rates compared to daytime operations. These inefficiencies not only impact crab survival but also add significant labor and operational costs.
AI and UV light integration
By implementing an AI-driven system coupled with UV light technology, Blue Star Foods aims to automate the identification of molting crabs. This technological advancement promises to significantly reduce labor hours and operational costs while enhancing overall efficiency and reducing mortality rates.
Additionally, the system is designed to pinpoint the optimal time for harvesting soft-shell crabs post-molt, thereby maximizing their quality and market value.
“This innovative technology not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances the average biennial survival rate, currently standing at 75%,” stated a spokesperson from Blue Star Foods.
The company anticipates these improvements will bolster its operational profitability while setting a new standard for sustainable soft-shell crab production.
In late March, Blue Star Foods initiated its soft-shell crab production for the 2024 season in South Carolina. Operating under a valid license issued by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the company accentuates its commitment to compliant and sustainable practices in seafood harvesting.
The integration of AI and UV technologies is expected to be a significant leap forward in their operations, reducing the environmental impact and enhancing the sustainability of soft-shell crab production.
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