The Lobster Shop is committed to reduce waste and make use of all the products we can arising from our shellfish processing where possible.

Our initial goal was to use the Lobster & Crab shells for a garden fertiliser, however, upon researching this idea we came across fantastic work being done by Martin Cessford of Angus Horticulture. Martin and colleagues have been looking at utilising shellfish waste as a means to improving soil health for several years.

The composting of shellfish waste, and subsequently used as a soil improver has a range of benefits including the natural control of Potato Cyst Nematode (PCN). This pest is a significant problem for potato growers, particularly as pesticide options for managing PCN have been reduced over recent years. The chitin present in shells acts as a food source for beneficial microbes in the soil, which subsequently attack the cysts of PCN, allowing natural control to occur at a much faster rate than usual.

We are delighted to be supplying Angus Horticulture with the shells so they can continue their trials and potentially have a great soil health improver ready to combat PCN and other soil-borne pests and diseases of crops, and continue the growth of great Scottish tatties to accompany your seafood dishes for years to come.

You can read more in The Scottish Farmer here.