Clemson University researchers have developed a new process to turn crab shells into natural marketable products. We've developed a process to completely eliminate that and use 100 percent of the product. The chitin can then be converted into chitosan and glucosamine, products that are in high demand by the food supplement industry, the medical profession, manufacturing and agriculture. The food supplement, or nutraceutical industry, sells glucosamine as a treatment for chronic arthritis and chitosan as a natural fiber for reducing cholesterol and absorbing fat.
Manufacturers use chitosan as a natural polymer to remove heavy metals from industrial waste water.
Agriculture uses chitosan as a feed supplement for hogs and as a seed coating. The cosmetic industry uses it in shampoos and face creams. We're just beginning to explore all its possible applications. Gordon's South Carolina Crab Company is developing a prototype system to process food-grade chitin, calcium and crab meat from the shells. The system is currently undergoing testing and refinements, with the possibility of commercial application throughout the entire seafood processing industry.