Organic Aquaculture

Our organic aquaculture partner, EXPALSA in Guayaquil, Ecuador, has truly redefined organic aquaculture. Yes, they have achieved a closed production cycle, operating hatcheries, shrimp ponds, feed plant and packaging plant that have been awarded the Naturland organic seal and are certified by QCS, a USDA and ISO-65 compliant organic certification program. Yet, in addition they have made a total social commitment which includes:

• Hatcheries ensuring no pressure to obtain wild larvae from the ocean.
• Inventory and monitoring of wild flora and fauna within the expanse of the operation.
• Reforestation programs returning the mangroves and environment to aerial historical records dating back to the 1950’s.
• Low density growth with the staple of the shrimp crops nutrition derived from zooplankton and phytoplankton naturally occurring in their ponds and then completed with certified organic feed.
• A natural healthy product free of residual pesticides or insecticides, chemical free, antibiotic free, hormone free, and no GMO’s (Genetically Modified Organisms).

This process reflects nature so completely that aerators and artificial oxygenation are not utilized.

Beyond the specifics of an environmentally harmonious process the social commitment extends to the local community with:

• Living wages to employees.
• Social programs including healthcare, family services, and education.
• Full financial support of an orphanage in Guayaquil including the land and construction and offering education, healthcare and social integration programs.
• Scholarship programs.
• Restoration of the village of “El Moro” which dates back to 1725 and is significant in the areas history going back to the time of “The Conquistadores.”

As you can see there is more depth to the claim of an organic product than meets the eye.           

For more information on EXPALSA’s organic shrimp farm please visit www.organicwonder.com.