The Atlantic Canada Fish Farmers Association says sea lice is not a risk to human health after it was found on whole Atlantic salmon at Sobeys.

The grocery chain pulled the fish from shelves Thursday after anti-fish farming activist Alexandra Morton posted a photo of lice on the fish on Facebook.

In response, the Fish Farmers Assocation issued a release touting the benefits of Atlantic salmon.

It said sea lice are found only on the outside of fish so it does not affect the quality of meat.

"Our salmon farmers make every effort to ensure any sea lice are removed from fish during processing," the release said. "However, sometimes not all can be detected."

The Association added that dealing with sea lice is a top priority.

A spokesperson from Sobeys estimated that 84 fish were taken out of its Maritime stores Thursday.