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Cooke Seafood Acquires Operations of the Defunct AquaBounty on Prince Edward Island

Blacks Harbour, Canada, 6 March 2025 | The goal of the asset acquisition is to enhance salmon operations in Atlantic Canada

Instalaciones de AquaBounty en Canadá

Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd. (KCS), the Atlantic Canadian salmon farming division of Cooke Aquaculture Inc., is delighted to announce the acquisition of the now-defunct operations of AquaBounty Canada Inc on Prince Edward Island.

AquaBounty was previously known for its development of the genetically engineered salmon, AquAdvantage. However, the company has recently ceased operations due to financial difficulties. It is important to note that Cooke does not engage in the production or sale of genetically engineered seafood products and is committed to maintaining transparency with “egg to plate” traceability for all its products.

The assets acquired from AquaBounty include four facilities on Prince Edward Island, featuring a state-of-the-art egg incubation site and a high-tech laboratory in Bay Fortune. Additionally, Rollo Bay hosts another modern incubation facility, a new large modern recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), and a second unfinished building, which KCS aims to complete to house another large RAS unit.

KCS plans to use these facilities to produce large smolts to supply its existing ocean-based salmon farms across Atlantic Canada.

This strategic purchase is a significant milestone in Cooke’s ongoing investment in Atlantic Canada, aimed at expanding operations, creating local jobs, and advancing the sustainability of the aquaculture industry through innovation and technology. Cooke has been operating the True North Salmon smoked processing plant in Charlottetown since 1997.

“Our freshwater science and fish health team will take the necessary time to thoroughly assess the capabilities of these newly acquired R&D and fish rearing facilities,” stated Glenn Cooke, CEO of Cooke Aquaculture Inc.

“This evaluation will include a detailed analysis of the infrastructure, resources, and expertise. Hybrid systems involving a mix of efficient land-based hatcheries and ocean farming are the responsible and sustainable way to grow local salmon for food.”

Local leaders and stakeholders express strong support for Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd’s adquisition of former AquaBounty assets on Prince Edward Island, highlighting the benefits of local employment and community development. The Honourable Robin Croucher and the Honourable Zack Bell both praised the company’s commitment to sustaining rural coastal communities and enhancing the island’s reputation in the global seafood market.

Kelly Cove Salmon Ltd. has rehired former AquaBounty employees and plans to expand its operations, including new shipping route at the Port of Souris, which supports a significant commercial fishery and provides essential services for transient fleets. Local authorities anticipate that the expansion will boost the economic vitality of the area and reinforce the maritime industry, benefiting the entire island.

Additionally, the practice of salmon aquaculture is noted for its low environmental impact and efficiency is providing a sustainable food source. Cooke’s overarching mission is to responsibly cultivate the ocean to nourish the world and strengthen community ties.

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