Our Mission
- Provide the best quality products (seal oil, seal meat and seal-fur)
- Create employment opportunities in rural Newfoundland and Labrador
- Educate the general public regarding the health benefits of seal products
- Ensure environmentally sustainable business practices
- Achieve full and responsible utilization of the seal
- Continue to research and develop other seal products
HOW IT BEGAN
History of Sealing in Newfoundland and Labrador
The seal harvests of the 1800s is often referred to as the “Golden Age of Sealing” in Newfoundland and Labrador and provided much needed food, heat and clothing for thousands of families in coastal communities.
Throughout history, sealing has had a massive impact on the peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador economically, socially and religiously. Before sealers ventured to the hunt, many communities had great religious services for sealers on the eve of their departure, with powerful sermons, moving prayers and hymns sung loudly. There are many stories of the seal hunt that have been passed down from generation to generation. Each March, as the sealing fleet prepared to depart from the St. John’s wharf, the community would gather for the annual “Blessing of the Fleet”.
Phocalux honours the many dedicated sealers who endured extreme hardships during the seal hunt and to those sealers who lost their lives during the hunt.
ABOUT SEALING
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Government of Canada have vigorously defended the Canadian seal hunt as being a sustainable and well-regulated industry. Seal hunting is closely monitored and regulated by the Government of Canada. Federal Government Fisheries Officers regularly conduct surveillance using aircrafts, boats and perform inspections on community wharves and within fish plants. All commercial seal harvesters are trained to ensure seals are harvested humanely, using procedures that have been recommended and endorsed by veterinarians. Sealers are required to complete humane harvesting, harvest quality and health training.
The sealing industry provides important and necessary economic benefits to the people and communities in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Research and Development
Since inception, Phocalux has carried out several research and development projects with the assistance of the National Research Council (NRC) of Canada and the Research and Development Corporation (RDC) of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. These research and development projects have assisted Phocalux in refining our production processes so that the company can produce the highest quality products.