Competition Begins in Alaska Symphony of Seafood

Eleven entries in the 20th anniversary Alaska Symphony of
Seafood new products contest are the center of attention today as judges decide
the winners in retail, food service and smoked products categories, plus the
grand prize winner. While the decision of the nine judges won’t be announced
until the gala soiree and awards ceremony in Anchorage Feb. 23, those attending
the reception tonight in Seattle will choose the Seattle People’s Choice Award,
to be announced this evening.

First place winners in each category will receive
complimentary booth space at the International Boston Seafood Show in March,
plus free airfare to and from Boston.

The five entries in retail competition are Sealectables
Cedar Plank Sockeye Salmon and Sealectables Cod Fish ‘n Sticks, both by Chang
International, Inc.; Roasted Garlic Alaskan Cod and Zesty Grill Sockeye Salmon,
both by Copper River Seafoods, and Teriyaki Style Sockeye Salmon Seafood
Burger, from Orca Bay Seafoods.

In the food service category, the entries are Seafest
Alaskan Salmon Loins, from Trident Seafoods, Sealectables Cod Fish ‘n Sticks,
from Chang International, Alaskan Sablefish Unagi Style from Triad Fisheries
and Salt & Vinegar Alaska Pollock Tenders, from American Pride Seafoods.

The two entries in the smoked products category are
Trident’s Smoked Sockeye Salmon: Sea salt nova style, and Aqua Cuisine’s Aqua
Cuisine Lit’l Sammies.

The goal of the event, sponsored by the Alaska Fisheries
Development Foundation in Anchorage, is to inspire better use and innovation of
Alaska’s natural seafood resources.

AFDF executive director Jim Browning said that over the past
two decades the event has celebrated some wonderful innovative Alaska seafood
products with these events, and AFDF is thrilled to have made a 20 year run out
of it.