Our Work - Farmers Feeding Florida
Aquaculture commodities play an important role in both strengthening Florida’s agricultural economy and increasing access to nutritious food available to families through our statewide food bank network. Through the Farmers Feeding Florida program, we partner directly with Florida aquaculture producers to create reliable market opportunities that move high-quality, protein rich seafood into pantries statewide for distribution to families experiencing food insecurity.
Aquaculture varieties in this program include:
Product categories may grow over time as producer capacity, processing options and food bank readiness align.
This program is designed to work alongside existing markets, helping producers manage surplus, respond to market fluctuations and keep product moving, while ensuring Florida-grown seafood reaches communities. Like other perishable commodities, there are times when supply exceeds demand, leaving growers with valuable products that might otherwise go to waste. Farmers Feeding Florida’s Aquaculture Recovery Program provides a solution, connecting these producers with families in need while strengthening Florida’s food system.
Through planned loads and strategic coordination, the program aligns seafood distribution with harvest cycles, ensuring that fresh, locally raised seafood reaches our network of nine food banks efficiently. By providing a predictable outlet for surplus or un marketable product, we help aquaculture growers maintain operational continuity, reduce waste, and support the long-term sustainability of their businesses.
Much like our work with produce, dairy, and beef, the aquaculture program is integrated into the supply chain from the start but also remains ready to support in times of crisis. We strive to be the first call in times when our producers need us due to disruptions from either weather and/or loss of markets.
Seafood is a lean, nutrient-dense source of protein that complements other donated foods. It offers key vitamins and minerals our neighbors need for good health, including Omega-3 fats, iron, vitamin D, and essential amino acids that support immune function, growth, and energy. Food banks can use these commodities in culturally relevant recipes, prepared meals, or as part of comprehensive food boxes that help families stretch their budgets and eat well.
Florida’s aquaculture sector is a growing part of the state’s agricultural economy. Mollusks like clams represent a significant portion of aquaculture revenue, contributing millions in sales and supporting jobs. By purchasing or rescuing aquaculture products that might otherwise go unsold, whether due to shifts in market demand or seasonal supply changes, the program helps growers stabilize income and local economies.
Many shellfish species, such as clams and oysters, are innate filter feeders that can improve water quality and provide habitat benefits in natural bay and estuary systems. Aquaculture operations also increasingly use sustainable practices to ensure ecosystems remain healthy for future generations.
Director of Agriculture Relations
