AUGUSTA — In an effort to promote Maine’s lobster industry, Gov. Paul LePage is shipping packages of lobster meat to the 49 other U.S. governors.

“What better time than summer to share the iconic Maine lobster?” LePage said in a prepared statement. “I want my friends and colleagues across the country to experience the flavor of Maine.”

The packages, being shipped overnight, contain boxes full of prepared lobster meat as well as lobster products processed in Maine, including bisques and spreads. 

“These items represent a small sample of products available from Maine companies that process and add value to Maine lobster, which is harvested from the pristine Gulf of Maine waters,” LePage said.

LePage said the seafood was not only a Maine product but a product of the U.S. as well and an opportunity to increase domestic seafood consumption. LePage also noted the long-standing practice of managing the lobster resource and its sustainability.

“I’m proud of the hardworking men and women who have made this one of the most lucrative industries in Maine,” LePage said. “Last year, a record 126 million pounds were landed, generating nearly a $1 billion in economic impact to our state.”

In his statement, LePage highlights the many different ways lobster can be eaten.

“It can be eaten alone, served on a bun, or prepared in a variety of dishes,” LePage said. “Lobster has less calories, less total fat and less cholesterol than lean beef; whole poached eggs; and even roasted, skinless chicken breast.”

He said regardless of how it is prepared he hopes his colleagues around the U.S. will enjoy it and help promote lobster sales nationwide.

“I’m sure that everyone who gets a chance to enjoy Maine lobster will agree that, no matter how it is prepared, it is one of the best things they’ll ever taste,” LePage said.

A spokesman for LePage said the cost of the promotion was about $5,000.

In July of 2009, then Gov. John Baldacci, signed a proclaimation making August, “Maine Lobster Month.” Former Gov. Angus King also signed a proclaimation making August lobster month in 1995.