“Scientific evidence continues to mount that American families should eat more seafood,” said NFI President John Connelly. “We must educate the public about the importance of increasing fish consumption, including canned and pouch tuna. NFI members welcome Bumble Bee Foods LLC, Chicken of the Sea International, and StarKist Seafood, which sell more than 90 per cent of shelf-stable tuna enjoyed in this country. By joining forces, the seafood community will amplify our common message for the American consumer: Seafood is essential to a healthy diet.”
USTF President Anne Forristall Luke said, “USTF members share NFI’s goal to help Americans eat more fish by supplying them with affordable, delicious and healthy proteins. As one of the most popular fish enjoyed in the US, tuna contributes to growth of the seafood category. The proteins, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids packed in tuna contribute to heart health and brain development throughout life. Tuna companies look forward to working with our partners in the seafood community to educate the public about the value of our foods to every person’s healthy diet.”
NFI will establish a Tuna Council, comprised initially of Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea and StarKist. The Tuna Council will focus its energies on issues specific to tuna and be funded through a special assessment of the participating companies.
Connelly will lead the combined organisation at NFI’s offices in McLean, Virginia. Forristall Luke will help lead the transition and implementation of the merger. NFI and USTF expect the integration to be completed in spring 2007.
