OBJECTIVES


The overall objective of this study was to provide additional statistical detail on seafood consumption for the various
population samples. Specific objectives were to:

1. Group individual species data, with input from HRS and DEP personnel, into the general classes of:

 a. Marine finfish
 b. Marine mollusks
 c. Marine crustaceans
 d. Freshwater predators
 e. Freshwater bottom feeders
 f. Processed finfish
 g. Panfish
 h. Sharks

2. For each of the above classes, calculate consumption at the mean, median and selected percentiles. These
 consumption statistics were also to be calculated for selected socio-demographic categories provided that there
 were sufficient observations for statistical validity. Percentiles were to be calculated using appropriate
 statistical methods which smooth the empirical distribution functions to allow for greater accuracy by
 ameliorating skewness or extreme variability in the range of the 90th and greater percentiles.

3. Rank counties by average consumption of each general class of seafood items and examine rankings for
 geographical patterns in the consumption of each general class.

4. Prepare for the Department of Environmental Protection an electronic data set containing consumption
 expressed as a raw weight equivalent along with demographic variables for each survey respondent.