Vol 17 Issue 1 January 2025

AQUAFEED Advances in processing & formulation

An Aquafeed.com publication

LIMITING EHP
EFFECTS IN SHRIMP
Disease prevention and management
Fish protein hydrolysates
The Global Feed LCA Institute
 HEALTH IS AT THE HEART
OF OUR CONCERNS

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS

BY OPTIMIZING YOUR HEALTH ADDITIVE STRATEGY

RESTRICT REDUCE INCREASE BOOST

inappropriate use losses from economical feed perfomance
of antibiotics and subclinical disease and ecological and farm productivity
chemicals and outbreaks sustainability

www.adisseo.com
AQUAFEED VOL 17 ISSUE 1 2025

Contents

SOYBEAN PEPTIDES FOR FISH-FREE AQUAFEEDS 42

Recent trials using a soybean peptide showed that fishmeal replacement is feasible.

ALLEVIATING ECTOPARASITE EHP PREVENTION FISH PROTEIN HYDROLYSATES 38

INFECTIONS IN POMPANO 16 IN SHRIMP FARMING 24 Improved quality and processing
Phytobiotic-based additives reduce Feed supplements could methods of the unrivaled marine
the severity of ectoparasite infections. contribute to limiting EHP impacts. ingredients.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 3

AQUAFEED VOL 17 ISSUE 1 2025
CONTACT US
Editorial:
[email protected] Contents
Editor/Publisher: Lucía Barreiro
Consulting Editor: Suzi Dominy 6 Interview with Amiya D. Nath
Technical Editors:
Peter Hutchinson, Albert Tacon, Ph.D 9 News Review
Assistant Editor: Marissa Yanaga 12 New on the market
Advertising enquiries:
[email protected] 16 Phytobiotic-based additives to alleviate
ectoparasite infections in pompano farming
Accounts & all other enquiries:
[email protected] 19  ombating a significant threat to whiteleg shrimp growth:
C
EHP infection
SUBSCRIBE *Cover story

Digital editions are free to industry subscribers. 24 EHP prevention in shrimp farming: Spore generation,
You may also purchase print copies. Subscribe at a key phase in limiting EHP outbreaks and effects
Aquafeed.com to receive your own digital copy
of our publications. 28 The power of krill meal to improve skin health
and reduce sea lice
https://bit.ly/AQUASUBSCRIBE
32 Recent trials show that mycoprotein is beneficial
to salmon and tilapia immune systems and the
reduction of GHG emissions
35 Diformates in seabass aquaculture: A proven concept
38 Fish protein hydrolysate from pelagics:
FOLLOW US A sustainable and efficient solution for aquafeeds
42 Soybean peptides for a fish-free aquaculture
44 Breaking free from the ocean's grip:
We are grateful to the following companies A new era for aquatic feed
for sponsoring this issue of the magazine.
Their support allows us to make our publications
48 Driving sustainability in animal nutrition:
available without charge. The role of the Global Feed LCA Institute
Adisseo......................................................................................... 2 52 Column: Shrimp nutrition & health:
Victam......................................................................................... 5 A holistic approach by Albert G.J. Tacon
Scoular......................................................................................... 8
Aquaproducts..........................................................................13
58  acking the line: A systematic review of how
H
Extru-Tech..................................................................................15
probiotics disrupt bacterial communication through
quorum-quenching
Catalysis.....................................................................................23
Nouvelles Vagues....................................................................34 63 Innovative sustainable recirculating aquaculture feeds:
Berg + Schmidt.........................................................................41 The InSuRAFeed project
China Feed Industry Expo.......................................................51
AquaFarm.................................................................................67 66 Calendar of events
WAS ..........................................................................................68

To read previous issues in digital format

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4 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

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NOW

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September 16 - 18, 2025 March 10 - 12, 2026 June 2 - 4, 2026

FEED
FORMULATION
LATIN AMERICA 2025

São Paulo, Brazil Bangkok, Thailand Utrecht, The Netherlands

INTERVIEW with Mr. Amiya D. Nath
Mr. Amiya D. Nath, V.P., JAPFA India

AQ: When did JAPFA enter the Indian market? When supporting and empowering farmers in Indonesia,
and why did the company start serving the aquaculture Vietnam, and other countries. To meet this demand,
industry? JAPFA India made a significant investment of over $10
AN: JAPFA India was established back in 1995, proudly million and inaugurated its first aquafeed plant on
pioneering pellet feed technology nearly three decades November 7, 2024, in West Bengal. The new feed mill
ago. Initially, the focus was on innovative feed solutions produces shrimp feeds and extruded feeds.
for poultry and broilers, positioning JAPFA India at the
forefront of transforming the country’s feed sector. AQ: Can you describe the new shrimp feed facility?
Growing demand for JAPFA feeds nationwide led to the AN: Our new shrimp feed facility is equipped with world-
establishment of world-class poultry feed mills to serve class German technology from Bühler, enabling the
major regions across India. production of up to 5 tons of shrimp feed per hour. The
In recent years, JAPFA India, with a strong distribution plant is modeled after our operations in Indonesia, where
and supply chain network, has experienced strong STP is the top-selling shrimp feed brand produced at five
demand for premium-quality aquafeeds. Our aquafeed facilities. This replication ensures we deliver the highest-
brand, Suri Tani Premuka (STP), is well-known for quality shrimp feed in India.

6 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 INTERVIEW

AQ: The new feed mill can also produce extruded feed.
Is there a demand for it in the Indian market?
To meet the local demand,
AN: Over the past three decades, India’s aquaculture
sector has seen exponential growth, accompanied by a
JAPFA India made a
notable shift from sinking pellet feed to extruded floating
feed. JAPFA India has been producing and selling sinking
significant investment of
feeds for several years, but farmers have increasingly
requested floating feeds for major carps, pangasius,
over $10 million and
catfish, and other aquaculture species. Our new aquafeed
plant is designed to consistently supply highly digestible
inaugurated its first aquafeed
and cost-effective extruded feeds to meet this demand.
plant on November 7, 2024,
AQ: Can you share more about your facilities and the
STP aqua team in India?
in West Bengal. The new
AN: We have the capacity to produce over 60,000 MT
of floating fish feed, 25,000 MT of sinking feed, and
feed mill produces shrimp
35,000 MT of shrimp and polyculture feed annually
in the first phase, using a state-of-the-art feed mill.
feeds and extruded feeds.
Our operations are supported by top-tier quality
control systems and fully equipped laboratories. With
warehousing and silos that store raw materials for
over three months, we ensure smooth, uninterrupted
operations. AQ: Tell us a bit more about the fish segment. What
Our STP Aqua Team comprises highly qualified challenges and opportunities do you see in India?
professionals, including MFSc graduates and PhD scholars. AN: India has primarily been a carp-producing nation,
Supported by our international teams, we leverage global with double-digit annual growth over the past three
expertise to maintain our leadership in the market. decades. However, fish prices haven’t increased
Over time, our market research in Indian aquaculture proportionately, leaving farmers seeking affordable, high-
has given us a deep understanding of how to produce quality floating feeds.
the highest-quality feed. JAPFA STP benefits from its Species like pangasius and tilapia are gaining popularity,
corporate headquarters in Singapore and expertise and farmers have recently succeeded in farming high-
from Indonesia, giving us a competitive edge in value fishlike milkfish and seabass, among others. JAPFA
delivering superior products. We strictly adhere to all is committed to serving fish farmers with superior
regulations and hold certifications like CAA, reflecting our feed at competitive prices. Unlike some competitors
commitment to sustainability and farmer welfare. whose product specifications vary between brochures
and packaging, we ensure that our products meet the
AQ: How are you addressing the recent volatility in specifications we advertise.
ingredient prices?
AN: Ingredient price volatility has been a persistent AQ: Why did you decide to enter the shrimp market?
challenge for STP in India and other markets. While AN: Our decision to enter the shrimp feed market
fishmeal and fish oil costs are no longer the main was driven by the needs of shrimp farmers and final
concern, the prices of alternative raw materials have risen consumers. While shrimp aquaculture in India has grown
sharply. Thankfully, our experience in navigating market consistently over the years, the net profits and livelihoods
fluctuations has allowed us to efficiently manage supply of shrimp farmers have not kept pace. Andhra Pradesh,
and demand. By proactively stocking raw materials in our India’s top shrimp-producing state, has the majority
warehouses and silos, we ensure that farmers remain of shrimp feed plants concentrated in its vicinity. As a
unaffected by price instability and continue to receive result, neighboring states face higher feed costs due to
quality feed at stable prices. transportation and other expenses.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 7

INTERVIEW

To address this, JAPFA India conducted extensive surveys specialized formulations for both. Additionally, with
to understand market dynamics and farmer needs. limited high-quality feed suppliers dominating the market,
We strategically chose West Bengal, India’s second-largest we see opportunities to expand our presence.
aquaculture-producing state, as the location for our first
shrimp feed plant. This decision allows us to serve local AQ: Tell us about the unique “polyculture fish feed”
farmers and nearby states more effectively. segment in India. What is it?
AN: Freshwater prawn, also known as scampi, farming
AQ: The shrimp industry has faced challenges recently. was once very popular in India, but its longer crop cycles
How can JAPFA help shrimp farmers? and higher production costs led many farmers to shift
AN: Shrimp farmers face issues like variable growth toward vannamei and other species. Polyculture allows
rates, early harvests, and the high cost of pond and farmers to raise carp and other fish alongside scampi in
feed supplements. Our STP shrimp feed has gained the same pond. This system caters to a variety of species,
significant traction in other countries by reducing shrimp requiring feed tailored to their diverse dietary needs.
production costs and increasing farmer profits. JAPFA JAPFA has developed a polyculture feed specifically
India is committed to achieving the same in India through designed to meet these requirements.
premium feed quality and robust technical support to
improve farmer livelihoods. AQ: What are your growth projections?
We also see Penaeus monodon (tiger prawn) making a AN: Based on farmer feedback, the demand for our feeds
strong comeback, with growing interest among farmers is overwhelming. We anticipate fully utilizing both our fish
to cultivate it for domestic consumption. STP has and shrimp feed mills within three years. We also plan
extensive experience formulating feeds for various shrimp to expand into new regions during this time and aim to
species, including vannamei and monodon, and we offer double our business annually.

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8 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 NEWS

NEWS REVIEW
Highlights of recent news from Aquafeed.com

De Heus opens its fifth Nicovita opens new

production site in Indonesia feed facility in Ecuador
The group strengthened its presence in Indonesia Nicovita opened
with the acquisition and launch of its fifth a state-of-the-
production facility in Purwodadi, Central Java. art facility in
The new Purwodadi factory will serve its customers Ecuador aiming for
and meet the growing demand for high-quality sustainable and
animal feed in Central Java and surrounding areas. efficient growth
The factory has expanded its production capacity in the country and
to 15,000 tons per month. supporting the future of the industry. The new facility,
equipped with cutting-edge technology and high levels
of digitalization, ranks among the most advanced
shrimp feed manufacturing plants. The new plant
joins Vitapro's network of facilities in Ecuador, Peru,
Honduras, and Chile.

BioMar develops
solution to boost fish
health and resilience
SmartCare Endurance is an innovative feed solution
Cargill revamps its developed to help farmed fish endure challenging
shrimp portfolio with high- conditions, such as SRS outbreaks. It features
performance philosophy a unique blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and
minerals that work to mitigate oxidative stress,
reduce inflammation, and enhance the fish's natural
immune response. This results in a more resilient
fish, better equipped to withstand threats from
pathogens such as Piscirickettsia salmonis and viral
diseases like IPN and PD.

Cargill Ecuador launched its revamped Aquaxcel

portfolio, now under a high-performance philosophy.
As one of the most significant innovations in the
nutritional portfolio, the new Aquaxcel lineup offers
improvements in key performance indicators, targeting
the production and economic goals of shrimp farmers.
Under this new philosophy, average FCRs have been
reduced by 15%, while weekly growth rates have
increased by 49%.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 9

NEWS

Cargill rebrands its CPM acquires Jacobs Global

micronutrition solutions CPM
and services acquired
Jacobs
Global,
a premier supplier of aftermarket parts for
hammermills and pellet mills. This strategic
transaction will enhance CPM’s product offerings,
expand its market reach and add capacity to better
serve CPM’s growing global customer base.

BioMar Chile to consolidate

Cargill Animal Nutrition unveiled a comprehensive aquafeed production at
range of best-in-class micronutrition solutions and Pargua plants by 2025
services under its new Micronutrition and Health
Solutions brand portfolio. The company evolved its Starting in the third quarter of 2025, BioMar will
current portfolio moving from a technology-first concentrate its production strategy on its two Pargua
to species-first offering, transitioning brands like plants, ceasing operations in Castro, Chiloé, in Chile.
Delacon and Provimi into eight focused product The decision reflects BioMar's future-oriented focus
brands. Syrena is the new aqua brand that provides on business sustainability across all dimensions and
innovative sustainable solutions that support the a commitment to efficiency throughout the salmon
health and performance of cold and warm water value chain.
species, including fish and shrimp.
Bühler opens Grain
Cooke expands acquires Innovation Center
Peruvian fishmeal giant
Cooke, through its subsidiary PF Cayman New Holdco
Limited, acquired Corporación Pesquera Inca S.A.C.
(Copeinca) of Peru. Copeinca holds the largest
anchoveta quota in Peru at 15.9% and processes
approximately 21% of the country’s total catch for
annual production of approximately 200,000 MT
of fishmeal and 23,000 MT of fish oil.

The Swiss technology group inaugurated its new

Grain Innovation Center in Uzwil. The center was
carefully designed to empower customers from the
food and animal nutrition industries to innovate and
improve their processes. Customers can conduct
tests on food and animal feed and can develop new
processes and solutions in various areas, including
cleaning, optical sorting, grinding, sifting, mixing,
and protein shifting.

10 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 NEWS

dsm-firmenich, Format Feed and Feeding for

Solutions forge alliance Fish and Shellfish:
to unlock the value of Nutritional Management
sustainable feed A new book relevant
dsm-firmenich’s Animal Nutrition & Health division, to the aquafeed industry
alongside Format Solutions, a provider of integrated has bee released.
formulation and feed ERP software, signed a strategic Edited by Vikas Kumar,
alliance aimed at quantifying and managing the written by an international
environmental impact of animal feed. The collaboration panel of experts and
melds Format Solutions’ formulation software with the with an applied focus, the
comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) platform, book serves as a reference
Sustell™. This integration empowers customers to book for aquaculture
calculate and share their feed footprints effortlessly. industry professionals seeking information on
the nutritional requirements and nutritional
Aker QRILL pathology of key species, metabolism, physiology
and concerns associated with feed manufacturing
Company launched within the aquafeed industry.
Aker QRILL Company, a It presents foundational knowledge and the
global standalone entity most recent advances in aquaculture finfish
spun out of Aker BioMarine, and crustacean metabolism and nutrient
was launched and embarked requirements, feed ingredients, nutritional
on a new chapter, now deficiency disorders, and integrated sciences.
supported by new ownership This book contains fresh approaches to
from American Industrial understanding feed, nutrition, metabolism,
Partners (AIP) and Aker Capital. This transition and overall health in the aquaculture industry.
marks more than just a name change; it’s the start
of a new era in the company and the development
of its brands, QRILL Aqua and QRILL Pet.

Benchmark to sell genetics

business to Novo Holdings
Benchmark Holdings plc has entered into a binding
agreement to sell its genetics business, Benchmark
Genetics, to Starfish Bidco, a wholly owned
subsidiary of Novo Holdings, valuing the enterprise
at up to £260 million. The sale will allow Benchmark
Holdings to focus on its Advanced Nutrition and
Health business areas.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 11

NEW ON THE MARKET

Aquaproducts unveils PEPTITOM:

A game-changing shrimp hydrolysate
powder for functional animal nutrition
21/01/2025, 10:12 INFOGRAPHIC_AQUAPRODUCT_CIRCULAR ECONOMY_FINAL.svg

Aquaproducts, an expert company in marine bio-

extracts, has cemented its position as a key innovator
in sustainable seafood byproduct processing
through strategic partnerships with global industry
leaders. Collaborating with Norway's Scanbio SAS
and Indonesia's Maqpro Biotech, Aquaproducts has
leveraged decades of expertise to create a robust, eco-
friendly supply chain for functional marine proteins.
In 2022, the company expanded its reach by
establishing a new facility, Marine Biotech Vietnam
(MBV), through a collaboration with the Mirova
Sustainable Ocean Fund. It was inaugurated on June
11, 2024, in Vinh Loc 2 Industrial Park, Long An.
This cutting-edge hydrolysate factory focuses on
producing dry hydrolysate protein powders for
the Asian feed and pet food markets, solidifying
Aquaproducts’ role as a regional hub for sustainable,
high-quality marine ingredients.
Continuing its pursuit of innovation, Aquaproducts The bioactive peptides in PEPTITOM exhibit strong
recently introduced PEPTITOM, an advanced antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, reducing
shrimp hydrolysate powder designed for oxidative stress and protecting fish from bacterial
both aquaculture and livestock markets. PEPTITOM infections. This dual role enhances health and defends
file:///Users/user/Library/CloudStorage/OneDrive-MB2452990_CTTM&DVZENHUB_mbvbiotech/MBV-Onedrive/MBV/Sales & Marketing/Paul VINCENT/3-Com… 1/1

redefines the use of marine resources in feed against pathogens, making PEPTITOM a valuable
formulations, aligning with the company's core values component in fish diets.
of quality, sustainability, and efficiency. Derived from PEPTITOM’s high digestibility ensures optimal nutrient
underutilized shrimp byproducts, PEPTITOM offers a utilization, supporting faster growth and better overall
highly digestible, nutrient-rich feed solution for aqua health. It helps aquatic animals cope with stress
and livestock, helping to reduce waste while boosting from environmental changes or feed transitions by
animal nutrition. maintaining consistent feed intake and enhancing
resistance to pathogens.
Functional benefits in aquaculture Additionally, PEPTITOM is an environmentally
PEPTITOM is designed for marine fish species and responsible choice, serving as a sustainable alternative
supports the nursery and early developmental stages to animal protein sources like krill meal, thus alleviating
of all fish species, offering numerous functional benefits pressure on marine ecosystems caused by overfishing.
beyond basic protein supplementation. It contains
bioactive peptides and free amino acids that improve Quality at its core
feed intake, digestion, and nutrient absorption, leading PEPTITOM reflects Aquaproducts’ larger mission
to efficient growth during critical early stages. to up-cycle seafood byproducts using cutting-edge

12 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 NEW ON THE MARKET

technologies. The hydrolysate powder is produced

through a controlled batch hydrolysis process using
selected enzymes, which allows for precise peptide
control and quality standardization. This stands in
contrast to continuous hydrolysis methods that may
yield less consistent results.
Strict control over raw material freshness and supply
chain allows for keeping histamine and TVBN levels low
(below 200 ppm), extending product shelf life. Further
ensuring the product's quality, PEPTITOM undergoes a
pasteurization step in compliance with HACCP standards
to guarantee food safety and maintain a high standard
of freshness.

Economic and functional advantages

Aligned with Aquaproducts’ commitment to regional
sourcing, PEPTITOM offers a reliable supply for both
local and regional markets. This consistent availability
allows farmers and feed producers to depend on steady
volumes and competitive pricing, facilitating better
planning and cost management.
Additionally, Aquaproducts has optimized the drying
process of PEPTITOM to enhance cost-efficiency while
maintaining high quality. By co-drying, the hydrolysate
powder with a carrier, production costs are significantly
reduced and hygroscopicity is minimized, preventing
caking. This presents a notable advantage over pricier
pure spray-dried hydrolysates, ensuring that PEPTITOM
remains an economically attractive option without
sacrificing performance.

The future of functional feed ingredients

Aquaproducts continue to play a pivotal role in
reshaping the feed industry with products like
PEPTITOM. By leveraging sustainable seafood
byproducts and transforming them into high-value,
functional ingredients, the company is not only reducing
waste but also contributing to the health, productivity,
and sustainability of global food systems.
PEPTITOM exemplifies how Aquaproducts continues
to lead the charge in marine bio-extract innovation,
advancing the industry toward more sustainable and
responsible resource use. The company’s ability to
innovate at scale, combined with its focus on local
partnerships and supply chain stability, ensures that
it will remain a key player in the feed and pet food
markets for years to come. Inquiries can be addressed at
[email protected].

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 13

NEW ON THE MARKET

New Tietjen’s hammer mill Biochem expands

development for the fine portfolio with advanced
grinding of fish feed organic trace minerals
The requirements for throughput rates and fineness in
the grinding of fish feed and pet food for extrusion have
increased significantly in recent years, while the recipes
are becoming ever richer in fat and protein. With the FD
32 Pro hammer mill, Tietjen is presenting a completely
new development that fits the throughput rates and
fineness in the grinding for the extrusion of fish feed
and pet food.

BetaTrace® is a unique, patent-pending source of

organic zinc, copper, manganese and iron designed
for every animal species. It brings together the
added value of betaine with an improved trace
mineral bioavailability. BetaTrace® is a powerful
supporter of animal performance and well-being
to meet the challenges of modern livestock farming.
Olmix develops mycotoxin
risk management platform BinSentry develops
Olmix launched MycoKingdom.net, a website platform for commercial
platform dedicated to the management and grain inventory management
understanding of mycotoxin risk. Myco’Kingdom
gathers seven functionalities for identifying,
assessing, preventing and managing mycotoxin
risk, in order to minimize economic losses linked
to contamination.

ProSense HD is a new, artificial intelligence-powered

inventory management platform aimed at commercial
grain handlers and feed mills. It delivers precise,
real-time inventory monitoring, so operators always
know what is in their commercial bins and silos at any
moment in time. This inventory monitoring is carried
out using high-definition 3D sensors that are designed
to see past dust and debris.

14 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Paulo Alarcón Hai Dang Do
Vitapro Chile, through its brand INVE Aquaculture appointed
Salmofood, has announced a Mr. Hai Dang Do as area
strategic restructuring of its Feed manager Vietnam. Hai will
Technology division. Paulo Alarcón oversee operations in Vietnam,
Bruce has been appointed as feed leading the team and reporting
technology manager, succeeding directly to Amir Khalil, regional
Sergio Castillo Alvarado, who will sales director APAC & China.
take on new responsibilities within
the corporation in Ecuador’s
shrimp industry.

Aedrian Ortiz Johnson Evy Vikene

Zeigler Bros. appointed Nuseed® Nutritional appointed
Aedrian Ortiz Johnson as director Evy Vikene aquaculture lead for
of aquaculture sales. Aedrian will Europe/Norway. This is a new
spearhead the company’s efforts role that will support the adoption
to grow and maintain its market of Aquaterra omega-3 canola in
share, driving sales and delivering the Norwegian, UK and EU
nutritional innovation and value aquaculture markets.
creation to customers worldwide.

Ramakanta Nayak LaVon Wenger

Ramakanta Nayak was appointed Wenger Manufacturing announced
as Orffa's managing director the passing of LaVon Wenger
for the Asia-Pacific region. on December 29, 2024. He was
Ramakanta will spearhead the 89. LaVon was the son of Lou
company’s initiatives to provide Wenger, one of the company’s
science-driven feed solutions that original founders. Through the
address the specific needs of Asian years, LaVon used his intuition and
livestock producers. foresight to develop numerous
innovations for extrusion cooking
technology. LaVon is the inventor
on 44 US patents.

Master Your Aquafeed Universe

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Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 15

DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Phytobiotic-based additives
to alleviate ectoparasite
infections in pompano farming
I-Tung Chen, Adisseo, Tran Vi Hich, Nha Trang University, Khuong Duy Nguyen,
Maria Mercè Isern-Subich, Waldo G. Nuez-Ortín, Adisseo

The warm water tropical finfish Pompano (Trachinotus cages (Nguyen et al., 2021). Similar cases reported in
blochii and Trachinotus carolinus), valued for their Taiwan and the Philippines highlight mortality rates
rapid growth rates and excellent market potential, are reaching 30-40% during this period (Yen et al., 2024;
farmed primarily in Southeast Asia, the United States, Palma et al., 2022). Parasites weaken fish health and
and Latin America. However, their production faces facilitate opportunistic bacterial infections from Vibrio
significant hurdles due to the presence of ectoparasites, alginolyticus and Vibrio harveyi, which cause ulcers and
including trematode monogeneans (Benedenia spp., other health issues, further compromising production.
Neobenedenia spp.) and protozoans (Trichodina spp., Traditionally, parasiticides such as praziquantel
Cryptocaryon spp.). These parasites inflict severe health and fenbendazole have been used to control these
issues, leading to high mortality rates and reduced infestations (Reed et al., 2009). However, these
profitability (Weirich et al., 2021). chemicals pose environmental concerns and the risk
In Vietnam, where pompano farming is a significant of parasite resistance, prompting the exploration of
part of the aquaculture industry, mortality rates due alternative solutions. Effective health management
to parasites are a recognized challenge during the practices, including the supplementation of health
first four months after fish are transferred to rearing additives specifically formulated to reduce ectoparasite

16 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 1. The experimental design schematic illustrating the health additive strategy to mitigate ectoparasite infections in pompano,
Trachinotus blochii.

load, can mitigate these issues and ensure the health to simulate farming conditions where parasites are
and productivity of pompano culture. transmitted via water and from fish to fish. During the
transition to the grow-out stage, from day 1 to day 30,
Feeding trial and parasite infection the treatment group received feed top-coated with
This article evaluates the efficacy of two phytobiotic- 0.3% SNGM and 0.3% APEX. From day 31 to day 70, as
based additives in mitigating ectoparasite infections parasite pressure was expected to increase due to fish
to sustain growth in pompano, Trachinotus blochii. size growth and environmental stressors such as poorer
In collaboration with Nha Trang University, Vietnam, water quality and crowding, the application dosage was
the study explored the supplementation strategy adjusted to 0.1% SNGM and 0.4% APEX. This increase in
based on Sanacore® GM (SNGM) and APEX® (APEX) APEX during the risk period aimed to further strengthen
to reduce the severity of parasite infection under skin immunocompetence and integrity for enhanced
experimental conditions. The study focused on a capacity to reduce the severity of infection. Fish were
high-risk period when fish were transferred from monitored regularly, and weight, length, and parasite
nursery to open cages, during the summer months prevalence were recorded to evaluate the efficacy of
(June to August), when the water temperature the health additive strategy (Fig. 1).
rises. SNGM promotes fish gut health and overall
immunocompetence, while APEX enhances skin Results
integrity and mucus defensiveness. Parasite infestations started to be seen after the first
The trial was conducted for 70 days, with 60 pompano week of culture, with protozoans such as Trichodina
(initial body weight, IBW 10g) divided into two groups, spp. and Cryptocaryon spp. appearing early. Trematode
each with three replicates. For each replicate, 10 fish monogeneans became prominent by day 28, peaking on
were housed in a 250L tank, receiving untreated water, day 42, and continued to increase until the end of the
and cohabitated with naturally infested carrier fish trial at day 70. By the end of the trial, the combination

Figure 2. The effect of SNGM+APEX supplementation on reducing the prevalence of ectoparasites: monogeneans (A), Trichodina spp.
(B), and Cryptocaryon spp. (C) over 70 days of cultivation. Results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and asterisks indicate significant
differences (P < 0.05).

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 3. The effect of SNGM+APEX supplementation on reducing mortality (A) and promoting growth in body length (B) and body weight
(C) of pompano over 70 days of cultivation. Results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and asterisks indicate significant differences
(P < 0.05).

of SNGM and APEX significantly reduced the prevalence stages of the grow-out period. This strategy not only
of trematode monogenean by 50%, decreasing from promotes health status and growth performance
80% in the control group to 40% in the treatment but also offers a sustainable option alternative to
group. Reduction of the prevalence of protozoan chemical antiparasitic treatments.
infections were more modest, with Trichodina spp.
decreasing by 7%, from 58% in the control group to References available on request.
54% in the treatment group. Similarly, Cryptocaryon
spp. prevalence dropped by 2% from 55% in the control
group to 52% in the treatment group (Fig. 2).
Under lower severity of infection, the treated fish More information:
had a notable reduction in mortality rates. By the I-Tung Chen
Global Technical & Scientific
end of the 70-day culture period, the health additive
Support Manager, Aquaculture
strategy reduced mortality by 50%, from 60% in the Adisseo SAS
control group to 30% in the treatment group. Significant
growth differences were observed from day 42 of
the trial, when parasite loads peaked, and differences
between groups became apparent. The additive Khuong Duy Nguyen
strategy exhibited better growth performance by 19%, Business Development Lead
with an average body weight of 76 grams compared to for Health & Farm Care
64 grams in the control group. Similarly, Adisseo SAS
supplementation increased the average total length of
fish by 13%, from 15 cm in the control group to 17cm
in the treated group. These outcomes suggest that
reducing parasite burdens allowed pompano to allocate Maria Mercè Isern-Subich
more energy toward growth and development rather Global Product Manager
than combating infections (Fig. 3). Aquaculture Health
Adisseo SAS
Conclusion
The present study demonstrated a health additive
strategy to effectively support fish growth and
survival under parasite infection. The supplementation Waldo G. Nuez-Ortín
of phy tobiotic-based Sanacore® GM and Head of Aqua Technical
APEX® provides overall immunocompetence and and Scientific Support
Adisseo SAS
skin health to reduce the severity of ectoparasite
infections during the early and most susceptible

18 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Combating a significant threat

to whiteleg shrimp growth:
EHP infection
Bulent Kukurtcu, Catalysis, Loc Tran, Phuc Hoang, Giang Vo, Khanh Nguyen,
Ei Mon Ko, Saw Carris Htun, ShrimpVet Laboratory

EHP, a growing threat

Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP)
currently poses a significant threat to
the shrimp industry. This intracellular
parasite can cause severe damage to
shrimp, leading to reduced growth
rates, poor feed conversion, and
increased mortality rates during
the production cycles. EHP can be
transmitted horizontally from water
sources, cross-contamination from
infected farms or shared equipment,
and/or vertically via the broodstock
and nursery batches. Besides,
the EHP-infected population is easily
prone to a secondary infection,
such as vibriosis and white feces
Credits: ShrimpVet Laboratory syndrome, as reported in numerous
studies. These co-infections could
The global shrimp industry, particularly the production further compromise shrimp physiology, metabolism,
of whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei), has seen growth rate, and even survivability. The severity
remarkable growth over the past decade, especially of these impacts presents a formidable challenge
in Southeast Asia, China, India, and Latin America. for aquaculture researchers, who are working to
This growth has been accompanied by advancements identify effective and sustainable solutions to inhibit
in healthcare and productivity, driven by the adoption pathogens and mitigate their negative effects on shrimp
of new technologies and sustainable farming practices health and productivity.
for cultured shrimp.
Despite these advancements, the industry Application Protocol for VIUSID DETOX
continues to face significant challenges, particularly Vet & ASBRIP Vet in Aquaculture
disease outbreaks and the environmental impacts of Aquaculture faces significant challenges from a
production systems. To tackle these issues, innovative range of pathogens, including Enterocytozoon
strategies – such as the development of novel hepatopenaei (EHP). VIUSID DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet
supplements – are being pursued to improve shrimp provides a natural, innovative solution to mitigate
health, enhance growth performance, and strengthen these threats, enhance immunity, and improve growth
disease resistance. and productivity.

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

VIUSID DETOX Vet combines probiotics and bioactive 7 days-challenge, the contaminated feed was prepared
molecules to combat pathogens, improve gut health, and renewed daily. Negative control tanks were fed by
and enhance resilience against environmental and TSB+ top-coated feed.
infectious challenges. It promotes better growth, feed After a feeding period with treatment diets for
conversion, and survival rates while improving water 14 days, shrimp entered into a seven-day EHP
quality. ASBRIP Vet utilizes essential oils like thyme challenge period using per os approach. During the
and eucalyptus to improve gut health, digestion, and 21-day post-challenge, shrimp survival, growth and
feed efficiency. It strengthens the shrimp's immune feed consumption rates were measured, as well as an
response and protects against pathogens like EHP and immuno-analysis performed across different sampling
Vibrio. When used together, these products provide points: day 7 and 21 of the post-challenge period. Total
a comprehensive approach to combating EHP, Vibrio, Hemocyte Count (THC), Differential Hemocyte Count
and viruses, ensuring sustainable and productive (DHC) and Phenoloxidase Activity (PO) of shrimp were
aquaculture systems. key interests in this study.

Immune response of shrimp to EHP Infection Data analysis

A fresh in vivo study conducted by Catalysis, in Data for survivability, water quality, and analysis
partnership with ShrimpVet Laboratory in Vietnam, results were analyzed using SPSS version 25.
aimed to evaluate the efficacy of VIUSID DETOX Vet For immunology analysis, SPSS version 27 was used.
& ASBRIP Vet in the improved immune function of Statistical significance was determined by P-values <
P. vannamei juveniles under induced EHP infection. 0.05. ANOVA and Duncan's test were used for multiple
The study was set up in 350-liter aquariums, utilizing comparisons. Independent samples and T-test were
a population of 40 shrimp per aquarium. Shrimp were used for differences among sampling time points.
approximately 1.78 grams and were fed with diets top- Percentage data was arcsine-transformed before
dressed with VIUSID DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet at 5 mL, analyzing statistics.
10 mL and 15 mL per kilogram of feed. Control groups
(challenge and unchallenged conditions) were set up as Results: Survival and growth
a comparison to the testing groups as the groups are At the end of the trial, the survival rates in the
shown in Figure 1. Only the negative control groups application of VIUSID DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet at
were absent of challenge. higher doses (10 ml and 15 ml per kg) were significantly
Feces from EHP-infected shrimp were mixed with 5% higher than the positive control and the lowest applied
seawater and 0.3% oxytetracycline to form the original dose (P < 0.05). As reported in Figure 1, the shrimp
EHP suspension stock. This stock was diluted 100 times survival in those two groups was improved by 18% and
and applied to feed pellets as a topcoat. During the 11%, respectively.

Figure 1. Survival rate on day 21 of EHP post-challenge. Values are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Statistically significant differences
are expressed in different small alphabets (a, b, c). (N = 4, P < 0.05).

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 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Table 1. Growth performance parameters after 51 days of culture (Duncan, P < 0.05)

G1 G2 G3 G4 G5
Group Negative control Positve control 5 mL/kg 10 mL/kg 15 mL/kg
Initial mean weight (g) 1.78 ± 0.00a 1.78 ± 0.00a 1.78 ± 0.00a 1.78 ± 0.00a 1.78 ± 0.00a
FMW (g) 10.44 ± 0.12a 6.91 ± 0.09d 7.09 ± 0.08c 7.36 ± 0.13b 7.39 ± 0.14b
MWG (g) 8.66 ± 0.12a
5.13 ± 0.09d
5.31 ± 0.08 c
5.58 ± 0.13 b
5.61 ± 0.14b
ADG (g/day) 0.206 ± 0.00a 0.122 ± 0.00c 0.126 ± 0.00bc 0.133 ± 0.00b 0.134 ± 0.00b
SGR (%/day) 4.21 ± 0.03a
3.23 ± 0.03 d
3.29 ± 0.03 c
3.38 ± 0.04 b
3.39 ± 0.05b
Final biomass (g/tank) 372.53 ± 4.48 a
235.30 ± 6.36 c
241.1 ± 14.06 c
257.50 ± 4.16 b
247.20 ± 11.02bc
Total feed consumption (g) 368.60 ± 5.57a 295.44 ± 6.62d 298.80 ± 4.56cd 307.79 ± 5.11bc 315.43 ± 9.02b
FCR 1.22 ± 0.02a
1.80 ± 0.03 c
1.77 ± 0.13b c
1.65 ± 0.04 b
1.80 ± 0.09c
CV of shrimp size (%) 14.48 ± 0.75 a
24.02 ± 2.64 b
25.59 ± 3.94 b
23.18 ± 2.31 b
23.30 ± 1.26b
Values are presented as mean ± standard deviation. Statistically significant differences are expressed in different small alphabets
(a, b, c, d). (N = 4, P < 0.05).

In terms of final mean weight (FMW), mean weight gain

(MWG) and specific growth rate (SGR), all treatment groups
significantly showed improved results than the positive
control (P < 0.05; Table 1). Regarding average daily growth
(ADG), G4 and G5 had significantly higher rates than
G2, however not from G3. Regarding the final biomass,
G4 was followed by G5 and significantly different from other
challenge groups of G2, G3 as it gained the highest survival of
shrimp after EHP infection. Similarly, the FCR (feed conversion
ratio) in G4 showed the lowest at 1.65, being significantly
different from the positive control (P < 0.05), showing
a notable improvement in FCR.

Results: Shrimp immunity

THC and DHC results indicated that the treatment groups
maintained stable hemocyte counts and effectively
managed EHP infection, particularly in the 10 mL/kg

Table 2. Immunological assays results

Parameter Time point G1 G2 G3 G4 G5

Total hemocyte count (THC) 1wpc 20.39 ± 11.16 aA
9.85 ± 7.19 aA
24.34 ± 13.8 aA
30.35 ± 10.97 aA
21.39 ± 8.55aA
(x106 cells/mL) 3wpc 35.54 ± 13.11bA 16.17 ± 7.13aA 17.30 ± 6.95aA 22.15 ± 3.52abA 18.68 ± 6.3aA
Differential hemocyte count-
1wpc 18.08 ± 3.84bA 13.33 ± 2.46aB 17.67 ± 1.78bB 13.33 ± 1.05aA 12.42 ± 0.79aA
Semi Granular cell count
3wpc 15.33 ± 2.16dA 8.33 ± 1.39aA 13.75 ± 1.6cdA 12.33 ± 0.72bcA 10.92 ± 1.1bA
DHC-SGC (%)
Differential hemocyte count-
1wpc 5.50 ± 2.78bA 1.75 ± 0.57aB 3.50 ± 1.6abA 2.17 ± 0.64aA 2.00 ± 0.86aA
Granular cell count
3wpc 5.75 ± 1.17cA 0.75 ± 0.42aA 5.33 ± 1.91cA 2.17 ± 0.58bA 2.17 ± 1.29bA
DHC-GC (%)
Differential hemocyte count-
1wpc 76.42 ± 6.24aA 84.92 ± 3.00bA 78.83 ± 3.10aA 84.50 ± 1.17bA 85.58 ± 1.48bA
Hyaline cell count
3wpc 78.92 ± 2.59aA 90.92 ± 1.00cB 80.92 ± 1.52aA 85.50 ± 0.84bA 86.92 ± 2.33bA
DHC-HC (%)
Phenoloxidase activity (PO) 1wpc 68.55 ± 18.84aA 48.00 ± 19.23aA 83.70 ± 48.42aA 66.75 ± 17.92aA 69.60 ± 32.36aA
(U/min/mL) 3wpc 81.00 ± 17.88aA 66.00 ± 11.71aA 60.75 ± 14.58aA 59.10 ± 53.18aA 63.30 ± 33.79aA

Results are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Identical superscripts indicate no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the
groups and among the two sampling time points within each group (uppercase). 1wpc: 1-week post-challenge; 3wp: 3-week post-challenge.
Similar superscript letters indicate that there is no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) between the groups and among the two
sampling time points within each group (uppercase).

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

group (Table 2). The PO activity data showed

that all doses positively influenced the
regulation and response of the shrimp’s
humoral immune system. Phenoloxidase
activity was initially elevated in all treatment
groups compared to the positive control
suggesting that the applied doses of the
test product effectively activated the
shrimp’s humoral immune system.
The decrease in PO activity within treatment
groups over time indicates that the test product
can effectively manage severe EHP infection.
These results showed that the application
of VIUSID DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet had an
influential effect on shrimp immunity within an
EHP infection.

Conclusion
The results of our study suggest that VIUSID
DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet yielded the best
overall outcomes, significantly enhancing
shrimp survival, boosting growth performance,
and positive effects on shrimp’s immune
response. The 10 mL/kg dose was identified as
the most effective treatment under the tested
conditions.
Catalysis’s VIUSID DETOX Vet & ASBRIP Vet
can be considered for practical application
in shrimp farming as a means to improve
survival and overall health when facing EHP
challenges. Further research, including field
trials and mechanistic studies, is warranted
to fully evaluate its potential and optimize its
application in commercial shrimp farming.

Acknowledgements
We would like to express our appreciation to
ShrimpVet, Vietnam, for conducting the trial.

References available on request.

More information:
Bulent Kukurtcu
Scientific Manager
Figure 2. (A) Total hemocyte count (THC), Differential hemocyte count (DHC)
Catalysis
as (B) semi-granular cell, (C) granular cell and (D) hyaline cell and (E) Phenol
Oxidase activity. Similar superscript letters indicate that there is no statistically E: [email protected]
significant difference (P value > 0.05) between the groups and among the two
sampling time points within each group (uppercase).

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

EHP prevention in shrimp farming:

Spore germination, a key phase in
limiting EHP outbreaks and effects
Sophie Reys, Pierre Fortin, Nicolas Tanrattana, Techna France Nutrition

Parasites impact on aquaculture

Parasites represent a significant threat to the
aquaculture industry today. Among the most concerning
are sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis), which infest the
skin of salmon; Sparicotyle chrysophrii, which affects
the gills of European seabream; or gregarines, which
compromise the gut health of shrimp (Buchmann,
2022). These parasites individually cause economic
losses estimated at hundreds of millions of dollars
annually, with sea lice alone accounting for losses of
over half a billion USD. The economic impacts arise not
only from direct factors, such as animal mortality and
treatment costs, but also from indirect consequences. efficiency, thereby driving up production expenses
These include reduced market value due to smaller size (Aldama-Cano et al. 2024).
or poor appearance, slower growth rates, increased
feed conversion ratios (FCR), and elevated fixed costs. EHP life cycle and effects
Overall, the aquaculture industry is estimated to lose EHP specifically targets the hepatopancreas, a vital
several billion Euros or USD annually due to parasitic organ responsible for digestion and metabolism
infections (Costello, 2009; Rigos et al., 2023). in shrimp. Its life cycle, typical of microsporidians,
Among these parasites, the microsporidian involves a highly resistant spore stage that facilitates
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) has emerged as a environmental persistence and transmission. EHP
particularly severe threat to shrimp aquaculture. This spores are released into pond environment via
parasite predominantly impacts Asia’s major shrimp- the feces of infected shrimp, enabling waterborne
farming regions. EHP infection does not cause any transmission. Other transmission routes include
specific clinical signs, but infected shrimp typically cannibalism and contamination from external sources.
exhibit reduced growth rates, increased FCR, and Once ingested by a shrimp, the spores germinate in
increased mortality. All of which directly impair the the digestive tract and inject their contents into the
productivity and profitability of shrimp farms. The epithelial cells of the hepatopancreas. Within these
growth retardation associated with EHP is due to the cells, the parasite proliferates, producing new spores
damage it causes to hepatopancreatic cells, which that are eventually released back into the gut and
impairs nutrient absorption and metabolic efficiency. environment, perpetuating the infection cycle (Fig. 1).
Consequently, infected shrimp require significantly (Chaijarasphong et al., 2021).
more time to reach market size, leading to higher Outbreaks of EHP are often associated with
operational costs. Furthermore, EHP adversely affects environmental and management factors in shrimp
FCR, a critical parameter for evaluating farming farming. Poor water quality, high stocking densities,

24 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 1. From Thawatchai Chaijarasphong et al., Journal of Invertebrate Pathology, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2020.107458z

and inadequate biosecurity measures create ideal the lipid membranes of parasites and interfering
conditions for the spread of the parasite. Additionally, with their metabolism. Additionally, essential oils are
EHP frequently co-occurs with opportunistic recognized for their repellent properties, targeting the
pathogens such as Vibrio bacteria, which exacerbate hormonal and nervous systems of parasites to reduce
the severity of the disease and complicate treatment their activity, such as feeding and reproduction. Other
efforts. Asymptomatic shrimp can also act as plant-based molecules, including phenolic compounds
reservoirs, silently spreading the parasite to uninfected and terpenes, inhibit crucial enzymatic processes vital
stocks. Moreover, EHP spores are highly resistant for parasite survival.
to environmental stresses, allowing them to persist In vitro testing conducted at ShrimpVet Laboratory
in pond sediments for extended periods even after allowed for ranking three plant-based ingredients based
disinfection or drying measures. This resilience makes on their efficacy in inhibiting EHP spore germination.
eradication extremely challenging (Chaijarasphong EHP spores were isolated from the hepatopancreas
et al., 2021). of infected shrimp and cultivated in Hank’s Balanced
Salt Solution. Under these conditions, at room
Active ingredient selection, temperature (25-28°C), spores germinated. Visual
knowledge and in vitro testing examination under a microscope (x1000) determined
The persistent prevalence of EHP poses a significant germination by observing flagella development. The
challenge for shrimp farmers globally. Addressing this proportion of flagellated versus non-flagellated EHP
issue and developing innovative, practical solutions spores was calculated for germination rates. The trial
to safeguard shrimp health and ensure the economic set-up included a control group (only Hank’s solution)
sustainability of aquaculture operations remains a and treatments with three different products were
critical priority for the industry. included at a concentration of 0.0625% in Hank’s
Leveraging its expertise in active ingredients and solution + EHP Spores.
molecules, particularly those derived from plants, Results indicated that phenolic compounds were the
TECHNA has identified antiparasitic compounds. most effective in controlling EHP spore germination,
Monoglycerides of fatty acids, including short- and followed by Essential Oil Blend #2, while Essential
medium-chain variants such as capric and caprylic acids, Oil Blend #1 exhibited minimal impact on germination
have demonstrated antiparasitic effects by disrupting rates (Fig. 2).

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 2. In vitro EHP spores germination with the inclusion of 0.0625% plant extract blends (ShrimpVet Laboratory, 2023)

In vivo challenge with EHP shrimp. Shrimp with an initial weight of 1.6 g were
The best ingredients were incorporated together raised in 250 L tanks for 50 days, which included an
with others in a commercial product that aims at EHP challenge from day 16 to day 23, followed by an
reducing the outbreaks of EHP and limiting its impacts. observation phase. Each treatment was replicated across
This product, called EHPROTECT, has undergone testing six tanks, each containing 50 shrimp. EHPROTECT was
to validate its efficacy. added to the diet prior to production.
An in vivo trial conducted at the ShrimpVet Laboratory Shrimp infected with EHP (positive control) exhibited
demonstrated a positive dose-response effect reduced growth, increased mortality, and higher feed
of EHPROTECT (2 to 4 kg/MT) on EHP-infected conversion ratios (FCR) compared to unchallenged

Figure 3. Shrimp mortality at the end of the EHP challenge trial

26 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 4. Shrimp final weight and FCR at the end of the EHP challenge trial

shrimp (negative control). The inclusion of EHPROTECT on Mediterranean marine finfish farming: Present
at 2 kg/MT and 4 kg/MT significantly improved scenarios and future visions. Reviews in Aquaculture,
these parameters. Mortality was reduced by 27.1% and 2023, https://doi.org/10.1111/raq.12857
52.9%, FCR improved by 41.8% and 56.0%, and final Chaijarasphong T, Munkongwongsiri N, Stentiford GD,
weights were 16.1% and 45.7% higher for shrimp treated Aldama-Cano DJ, Thansa K, Flegel TW, Sritunyalucksana
with EHPROTECT at 2 kg/MT and 4 kg/MT, respectively K, Itsathitphaisarn O. The shrimp microsporidian
(Fig. 3, 4). Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP): Biology, pathology,
diagnostics and control. Journal of Invertebrate
Conclusion Pathology, 2021 Volume 186, 107458, ISSN 0022-2011,
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei remains a significant https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jip.2020.107458
threat to shrimp farmers, particularly in Asia. Feed
supplements, such as EHPROTECT, could contribute
More information:
to limiting EHP impacts through various mechanisms.
Pierre Fortin
The above results show that EHPROTECT could help
Aquaculture Manager
in limiting EHP outbreaks and probably prevent them. Techna
Robust biosecurity and prophylactic measures are other E: [email protected]
milestones to limit EHP impacts.

References
Buchmann K. Control of parasitic diseases in
Nicolas Tanrattana
aquaculture. Parasitology. 2022, Dec; 149(14):1985- Aquaculture Nutritionist
1997. doi: 10.1017/S0031182022001093. Techna
Costello, MJ. The global economic cost of sea lice to
the salmonid farming industry. Journal of Fish Diseases,
2008, 32(1), 115-118. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-
2761.2008.01011.x
Aldama-Cano DJ et al. The Microsporidian Sophie Reys
Enterocytozoon Hepatopenaei in Shrimp Culture, R&D Project Manager
The shrimp book II, Chapter 22. 2024. Techna
Rigos G et al. Antiparasitic approaches and
strategies in European aquaculture, with emphasis

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 27

DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

The power of krill meal to improve

skin health and reduce sea lice
Kiranpreet Kaur, Aker QRILL Company

For Atlantic salmon farmers, the health and welfare This challenge also goes beyond cost, as it is also in
of the fish remain a constant challenge. Key among conflict with industry-wide aquaculture ambitions
those challenges is skin health, which directly impacts to improve fish welfare by practicing more humane
fish resilience against parasitic sea lice infestation. farming. Typically, farmers experience poor skin health
Though traditional delousing methods can be effective that leads to less robust fish, reduced quality, and higher
and have been heavily relied upon in the past, these mortality rates.
methods often lead to unintended consequences,
such as excess stress or injury to the fish. Recent Krill meal can be a part of a nutritional
studies point to fish diet and nutrition as a possible solution to skin health and sea lice challenge
solution, specifically through the inclusion of functional Functional diets have emerged as a promising tool in
ingredients such as krill meal in the aquafeed – a more the fight against sea lice – using nutrition to achieve
sensitive tool that requires no extra handling of fish. improved health. Traditional aquafeeds often lack the
It’s an approach that can serve to strengthen the comprehensive nutritional profile needed to address
skin’s mucosal barriers and reduce sea lice while complex challenges like skin health and parasite
boosting the overall welfare of the fish. resistance. Krill meal, derived from Antarctic krill, is a
standout ingredient due to its unique nutritional profile.
The cost and consequences Within krill meal, there’s a bounty of phospholipids,
of sea lice in salmon farming omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, trimethylamine
Skin is the first line of defense against environmental N-oxide (TMAO), vitamins, minerals, and chitin – all
issues for most creatures, including farmed salmon. of which support the integrity of salmon skin and
When skin health is less than optimal, it exposes the mucus layers and help form a stronger barrier against
fish to pathogens that can result in infections and parasites. Recently, TMAO has gained attention
diseases. The salmon become more susceptible to sea for its role in protecting fish from dehydration,
lice when skin conditions are poor, and their overall strengthening their barriers, improving skin health,
welfare deteriorates. reducing ulcers, and ultimately enhancing their overall
Sea lice infestations are considered one of the costliest resilience. Unlike plant-based ingredients, which can
challenges for salmon farmers. The parasites latch require supplementation to balance amino acids,
onto the salmon to feed on their skin and mucus, krill meal offers a natural, good balance of essential
which compromises fish health. Chemical solutions and non-essential amino acids to meet the needs of
take a significant environmental toll and can lead salmon. Its rich phospholipid composition enhances
to resistance development in sea lice and can cause the bioavailability of omega-3s, especially EPA and
potential harm to non-target species. There are DHA, ensuring that the fish get the maximum benefit
non-medicinal solutions that are less invasive from these important fatty acids. This is particularly
than chemical solutions, such as thermal delousing, but important for strengthening the structural integrity of
these can still cause stress and negatively affect the the skin and mucosal barriers.
welfare of salmon. In Norway alone, delousing costs In addition, chitin, a component of krill exoskeletons,
exceed USD 576 million (NOK 6 billion) per year. positively influences gut microbiota, which helps

28 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 1. Mean and standard deviation number of preadult sea lice per fish in the three diet groups. The 8% KM provided a significant reduction
in mean number of sea lice numbers per fish.

improve immune responses and overall health. On The study showed that 8% krill meal in the salmon
top of that, krill meal’s astaxanthin content delivers diet can significantly enhance skin epithelial thickness
antioxidant properties that reduce oxidative stress, and mucosal health – with a significantly lower sea lice
which can be common in densely populated aquaculture number recorded. It’s an improvement that resulted in a
environments. When served in combination with 25% reduction in sea lice infestations when compared to
krill meal, the result is an effective and multi-faceted a standard commercial diet.
ingredient that improves skin resilience and supports However, not just any amount of krill meal will do
overall health. the trick. Getting the right inclusion level in the feed
is crucial for ensuring maximum health benefits and
Putting krill meal to the test optimal growth performance. Studies suggest that
New research from Aker BioMarine compared two an 8-10% inclusion rate is optimal for young salmon,
krill meal-enriched diets with a typical commercial especially during the seawater transfer phase. During
salmon feed to measure the effects on skin health. the grower and pre-slaughter phases, when the fish are

Figure 2. The average dorsolateral skin epithelial thickness. The epithelial skin thickness (in microns) in stockfish before feeding with the test
diets and in test groups 8 weeks after feeding with a control diet, a diet with 8% KM, or a diet with 12% KM.

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Figure 3. The changes in dorsolateral skin mucosa after 8 weeks of feeding on the test diets. mean mucus cell area in square microns (a),
the mucous cell volumetric density in the epithelium (x 100 = %) (b), and the defence activity of the mucosa (c). The value in the boxplot
is the mean + standard deviation values per group.

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 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

larger, studies suggest an inclusion rate of around 12% stable, even exhibiting growth in some years. This has
to get the best health benefits. earned krill the status of a highly renewable resource
with a relatively low carbon footprint compared to
A sustainable future for salmon farming other feed ingredients, making it a more sustainable
The inclusion of krill meal as a functional feed ingredient choice for aquafeed formulations.
for salmon not only addresses critical health challenges
in aquaculture but also aligns with the industry’s Krill meal is a powerful nutritional
sustainability goals by promoting more environmentally strategy for the future of aquaculture
friendly feed practices. Farmers today are seeking ways As the aquaculture industry continues its hunt for
to reduce their dependence on chemical treatments solutions to its most urgent challenges, krill meal offers
to combat sea lice, as well as to minimize handling a compelling answer. Its ability to enhance skin health
stress during delousing, which can lead to reduced and reduce sea lice infestations shows its value as a
fish welfare, greater mortality, and hinder efficiency. part of a nutritional strategy to not only support fish
Krill meal offers a natural, sustainable, and effective welfare but also to improve overall productivity and
alternative to these methods. ensure the long-term sustainability of salmon farming.
Aker Qrill Company is committed to sustainable The power of krill is far more than a scientific discovery
krill harvesting practices, as evidenced through – it’s a step towards a brighter and more resilient future
their operations which are certified by the Marine for aquaculture.
Stewardship Council (MSC). This certification is a
testament to the krill fishery’s commitment to
responsible harvesting and minimal environmental More information:
impact. Krill meal comprises one of the largest Kiranpreet Kaur, PhD
biomasses on Earth to this day, and a decade of research Director R&d
from the Commission for the Conversation of Antarctic Aker QRILL Company
Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR), in cooperation with E: [email protected]
Aker Qrill Company, shows that its population remains

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 31

DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Recent trials show that mycoprotein

is beneficial to salmon and tilapia
immune systems and the reduction
of GHG emissions
Heikki Keskitalo, Enifer

Dealing with salmon disease and welfare ulcer issues are estimated to cause USD 750 million in
Infectious diseases are the cause of the second-largest damages annually.
loss in salmon farming. The single largest infectious It is possible to vaccinate against these winter ulcer
disease loss is caused by Moritella viscosa bacteria, bacteria, but the problem is that the bacteria have many
which causes a disease commonly called winter ulcer. different strains. Therefore, ulcer development can
For almost 40 years, the industry has been aware occur even in fish that have been vaccinated. Vaccines
of the problem of winter ulcers. However, due to aren’t perfect and new solutions are needed.
their growing frequency, frequently attributed to the Pekilo Aqua® mycoprotein contains immune system-
increase in mechanical sea lice treatments, they are and vaccine-boosting betaglucan, nucleotides, and
a hot topic of debate in the salmon business. Winter spermidine. Therefore, it could act as a vaccination

32 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

booster, besides being a source of highly digestible and that goal. One major part of the solution might be
sustainable protein. Application is easy since Pekilo the regular use of immune- and vaccination-boosting
protein can be easily mixed into a commercial diet. compounds like Pekilo Aqua®.
There is already scientific evidence on this.
According to a recent peer-reviewed scientific study An effective tool for tilapia
(Mensah et al., 2024), Pekilo mycoprotein helped Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Streptococcus, GBS)
to prime and regulate the immune function in has emerged as a significant pathogen affecting mainly
cells from Atlantic salmon. Interestingly, the warm water aquatic species like tilapia. Outbreaks of
co-stimulation of salmon spleen leukocyte cells this causative agent of this zoonosis are causing alarm
with Pekilo mycoprotein and inactivated M. viscosa worldwide. Infection rates have already reached 50%,
cells induced both immune homeostasis and and mortality rates have surpassed in some cases 95%
antimicrobial response. (Ye et al., 2011). S. agalactiae has caused losses for
High concentration of polyamine spermidine Chinese growers ranging from 30-80%. In China alone,
(~1,500 mg/kg) is probably one of the main reasons that amounts to almost USD 1 billion in lost revenue,
besides nucleotides why Pekilo Aqua® improves assuming an average loss of 40% annually.
immune homeostasis and the effect of vaccines A trial performed in Brazil showed that the oral
(Jeong et al., 2018). In the immune cells of elderly administration of Pekilo Aqua® at a concentration
humans, spermidine has also been shown to boost of 2.5% in tilapia diet resulted in specific IgM anti-S.
antibody production. agalactiae titration values that were higher than those
Recently, Norway's Ministry of Agriculture and Food of the control group (unpublished data). Higher levels of
published a 20-year update to their animal welfare specific antibodies might lead to increased survival rates
report and presented it to the country's parliament. of the animals, demonstrating the product's efficacy
Norway aims to have "the top animal welfare in the against potential outbreak occurrences. Therefore, the
world" with a 5% target for farmed salmon mortality. addition of Pekilo Aqua® to the diet of tilapia is justified,
The industry must figure out a way to drastically cut even though the price of Pekilo Aqua® is higher than the
its numbers from the 16% recorded in 2023 to reach price of bulk proteins.

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Reducing GHG emissions in fish farming Stress in Inflammation Models Using Macrophages and
Margareth Øverland's research group showed that the Zebrafish. Biomol Ther (Seoul). 2018 Mar 1;26(2):146-
inclusion of Pekilo mycoprotein in salmon feed exhibited 156. doi: 10.4062/biomolther.2016.272. PMID:
favorable outcomes concerning environmental impacts, 28365977; PMCID: PMC5839493.
food-feed competition, and solid phosphorus and Ye X, Li J, Lu M et al. Identification and molecular typing
dissolved nitrogen waste outputs (Hooft et al., 2025). of Streptococcus agalactiae isolated from pond-cultured
Pekilo protein exhibited efficient environmental tilapia in China. Fish Sci 77, 623–632 (2011). https://doi.
performance associated with GHG emissions reduction org/10.1007/s12562-011-0365-4
compared to other feed ingredients, specifically soy Digestibility of Paecilomyces variotii for juvenile Nile
protein concentrate. Tilapia and zootechnical performance of juvenile
tilapia fed diets containing Fungal Single-Cell Protein
Conclusion Paecilomyces variotii. Unpublished study performed at
Increasing the usage of innovative ingredients like the Bioassay Laboratory of the Fishery Institute in São
Pekilo protein is imperative to meet increasing seafood José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.
demands while addressing critical issues linked to Hooft JM, Tran HQ, Montero R, Morales-Lange B,
global warming, limited natural resources, food safety, Stejskal V, Mydland LT, Øverland M. Environmental
and self-sufficiency. impacts of the filamentous fungi Paecilomyces variotii
(PEKILO®) as a novel protein source in feeds for Atlantic
References salmon (Salmo salar). Aquaculture, Volume 596,
Mensah DD, Morales-Lange B, Øverland M, Baruah K, Part 1, 2025, 741779, ISSN 0044-8486, https://doi.
Mydland LT. Differential expression of immune-related org/10.1016/j.aquaculture.2024.741779
biomarkers in primary cultures from Atlantic salmon
(Salmo salar) exposed to processed Paecilomyces
variotii with or without inactivated Moritella viscosa.
Fish & Shellfish Immunology, Volume 148, 2024, More information:
109506, ISSN 1050-4648, https://doi.org/10.1016/j. Heikki Keskitalo
fsi.2024.109506 Business development manager
Enifer
Jeong JW, Cha HJ, Han MH, Hwang SJ, Lee DS, Yoo JS,
E: [email protected]
Choi IW, Kim S, Kim HS, Kim GY, Hong SH, Park C, Lee
HJ, Choi YH. Spermidine Protects against Oxidative

34 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

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Diformates in seabass aquaculture:

A proven concept
Christian Lückstädt, ADDCON

According to FAO, aquaculture diversification is one of the of their high load of active ingredients as well as
most important strategies to strengthen and consolidate their stability and handling properties in extruded
expansion in this fast-growing, global industry. Besides feeds. Dietary potassium diformate (KDF, traded as
the regular candidates for top-aquaculture species – Aquaform®), as well as sodium diformate (NDF, traded
Chinese carps, shrimp, tilapia or salmon for example, as Formi® NDF), have been tested in various aquaculture
certain seabass species have emerged as interesting species from tropical and ambient regions since
contenders in this quest. 2005 and several meta-analyses, as well as an
Production of both the European (Dicentrachus labrax) independently published review article on their use in
and Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) has increased aquaculture, are available.
in recent years worldwide, reaching almost This article examines the impacts of both diformates in
500,000 tonnes of total annual production in 2023. European and Asian seabass.
However, with such rapid growth, especially for the
Asian seabass, special attention is now being given to the Trials in Asian seabass
application of natural, sustainable and safe antimicrobial Two trials with the Asian seabass were carried out under
feed additives to reduce the impact of stress and/or university conditions using commercial feeds in Thailand.
disease challenges. This is especially important since The first trial (Lückstädt & Kühlmann, 2014) used
bacteriological vibriosis is the most frequent disease 120 juvenile Asian seabass with a mean weight of
affecting the Asian seabass, with losses accounting for 16.50 ± 3.97 g and stocked into twelve 240 L freshwater
more than 7% of the total production cost. Therefore, aquaria in a completely randomized design. Fish were
there is an understandable willingness from the industry divided into two groups (negative control and KDF)
to test new concepts. and reared for 75 days at 26-30°C water temperature.
Growth and health status in farmed fish may be The crude protein content of the Australian-formulated
improved through the application of feed additives diet was 54%. The fish in both the control and KDF
to high-quality feeds. This management strategy is treatments were given the appropriate feed with a daily
one of the main factors ensuring the future success ration equivalent to 3-5% of their body weight. Feed
of aquaculture. Among such additives, acidifiers have was dispensed three times a day. Water parameters and
been increasingly used in many fish species over the last growth performance of fish were monitored regularly.
decade – they have for instance been successfully tested Data was analyzed using the t-test and a confidence level
in salmon, rainbow trout, African catfish, European of 95% was defined for these analyses.
seabass, Asian seabass, milkfish, tilapia and pangasius as The diet supplemented with 0.5% KDF showed
well as shrimp. improved growth data (P<0.05; Fig. 1). Seabass
In animal nutrition, acidifiers exert their effects in the control group reached a mean final body
on performance via three different ways: (i) in the weight of 54.5 ± 7.5 g, while fish fed with potassium
feed; (ii) in the gastrointestinal tract of the animal; diformate reached an average weight of 62.7 ± 2.8 g
and (iii) in the animal’s metabolism. A wide range of (Table 1). Additionally, feed conversion ratio and protein
different organic acids and salts have been tested efficiency ratio tended (P=0.06) to improve. Finally,
so far. Diformates in particular are used widely in the survival rate as well as the fish productivity index,
both tropical and cold-water aquaculture, because which is calculated based on weight gain, survival rate

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DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

and feed conversion - thus combining the

three most important parameters in any
fish production, improved significantly
(P<0.05).
A subsequent trial (Arreza et al., 2014),
using the same methodology, but with
a lower diformate dosage (0.3% KDF)
showed similar results (Table 2).
With an increase of the fish productivity
index by 60% and 100% for 3 kg/t and 5
kg/t potassium diformate inclusion,
respectively, both trials proved that the
dietary acidifier can enhance growth
performance and thus achieve economic
and sustainable fish production.
A more in-depth view of the production
of juvenile Asian seabass was provided
by Reyshari et al. (2019). These
researchers investigated growth
performance, gut microflora, digestive
enzymes and innate immunological
parameters of seabass juveniles.This
time, dietary sodium diformate (NDF) was
used as a gut health-promoting feed
Figure 1. Asian seabass juveniles after the trial additive (Table 3).

Table 1. Production parameters of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) after 75 days of rearing with or without dietary potassium diformate
(KDF, Aquaform®) – modified after Lückstädt & Kühlmann, 2014

Parameter CON 0.5% KDF P-value

Initial weight (g) 15.8 ± 3.2 16.2 ± 4.2 0.430
Final weight (g) 54.5 ± 7.5 a
62.7 ± 2.8 b
0.026
Weight gain (g) 38.8 ± 6.6a 46.5 ± 3.8b 0.028
Survival (%) 82.0 ± 13.3a 98.3 ± 3.7b 0.014
FCR 2.72 ± 0.94 1.95 ± 0.30 0.061
FPI* 234 ± 56 b
0.026
PER** 0.75 ± 0.22 0.96 ± 0.14 0.055
a,b: Means with a different superscript differ significantly at P<0.05
*FPI = Fish Productivity Index: Weight gain (g) × Survival (%) / (FCR × 10)
**PER = Protein Efficiency Ratio: Weight gain (g) / Protein intake (g)

Table 2. Production parameters of Asian seabass fed with or without dietary KDF – modified from Arreza et al., 2014

Parameter CON 0.3% KDF % Difference

Final weight (g) 54.5 ± 7.5 61.8 ± 6.2 +13.4
Weight gain (g) 38.8 ± 6.6 44.9 ± 6.1 +15.7
Survival (%) 82.0 ± 13.3 88.3 ± 6.9 +7.7
FCR 2.72 ± 0.94 2.12 ± 0.35 -22.l
FPI +59.8

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 DISEASE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT

Table 3. Production parameters of Asian seabass fed over a period of 6 weeks with or without dietary NDF – modified from Reyshari et al., 2019

Parameter CON 0.5% NDF % Difference

Initial weight (g) 12.9 ± 0.2 13.5 ± 0.6 +4.7
Final weight (g) 45.9 ± 0.8 a
67.3 ± 2.7 b
+46.6
Weight gain (%) 255.8 ± 8.7a 398.5 ± 33.6b +55.8
FCR 1.2 ± 0.1 1.0 ± 0.1 -16.7
FPI 275 538 +95.6

Table 4. Growth and feed utilization indices of European seabass fed with sodium diformate (Formi® NDF)-supplemented diets for 13 weeks –
modified from Wassef et al., 2017

Parameter CON 0.3% NDF 0.4% NDF

Final weight (g) 22.8 ± 0.2 a
25.2 ± 0.3 b
24.2 ± 1.5b
Weight gain (g) 17.9 ± 0.3a 20.5 ± 0.3b 19.4 ± 1.5b
FCR 1.59 ± 0.00 1.53 ± 0.11 1.43 ± 0.08
Survival (%) 95.0 98.3 96.7
PER 1.00 ± 0.0 a
2.00 ± 0.0 b
2.00 ± 0.0b
PPV* 29.9 ± 0.6a 33.2 ± 2.0b 34.9 ± 1.7b
FPI 107 132 131
*PPV = Protein Productive Value: 100 × (Protein gain (g) / Protein fed (g))

Results proved, as with KDF, that dietary NDF is Conclusions

able to improve the performance of Asian seabass It can be summarized, also for the European seabass,
significantly. Furthermore, the gut total viable that the inclusion of diformate, leads to improved
bacterial count decreased, while the lactobacilli count performance – with significantly improved protein
increased – which is seen as a move towards eubiosis. usage. This is particularly noteworthy, as carnivorous
The specific activity of chymotrypsin improved in fish-fed fish species are often viewed critically for this parameter
NDF, leading to a significantly higher protein efficiency and public opinion has shifted towards demanding
ratio. Finally, seabass fed with sodium diformate showed information about the “fish in – fish out” factor. The
a higher serum lysozyme level, indicating an improved overall performance based on the fish productivity
immune status. Based on a break-point regression index, for both dosages, improved by around 23%.
analysis, the optimal dosage of NDF for Asian seabass was The addition of either potassium diformate or sodium
estimated to be between 4.6 and 5.1 kg/t; this is in the diformate in the diets of both seabass species improved
same range as with KDF. growth and other health and digestibility parameters
significantly. These findings are in line with several other
Trials in European seabass studies testing the effect of diformates in various tropical
To see whether the diformate-additive can also be and temperate fish/shrimp species and are, therefore,
applied to European seabass, a trial was carried out in an interesting option for sustainable fish production.
conjunction with an Egyptian university (Wassef et al., As such it can finally be concluded – diformates in
2017). Juvenile (IW: 4.8 ± 0.0 g) Dicentrachus labrax were seabass production are indeed a proven concept.
fed with either a control or NDF-containing diet over
the period of 13 weeks. Results showed a prominent
growth-promoting effect of 0.3% NDF in the seabass diet, More information:
which resulted in the highest weight gain, specific growth Christian Lückstädt
rate and feed utilization (Table 4). Fish from the same Technical Director FEED
ADDCON
treatment showed also a significant elevation in health E: [email protected]
and immune indices.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 37

PROTEINS

Fish protein hydrolysate

from pelagics: A sustainable and
efficient solution for aquafeeds
Dominique Corlay, Aquaculture Natural Solutions

represent around 85% of the 1.35 million tonnes total

landings (ONP, 2023), with around 65% being sardines
(Sardina pilchardus). The pelagic stocks are considered in
good condition and as “not fully exploited” (FAO/CECAF/
MarinTrust) while Moroccan authorities implement
regular controls and fish stock assessments. Since 2023,
biological rests have been put in place in the major
South Atlantic ports to preserve the resource. At the
BLUE FISH FACTORY plant, only byproducts of pelagics
from their own cannery are used, such as discarded
batches for technical reasons (visual appearance, stacked
fish, freshness grade, etc.) or trimmings, including heads
and viscera. Finally, all raw materials are fully traced
up to the fishing boats and controlled by a third party,
There is no doubt the aquafeed industry needs to with under-progress certifications including GMP+,
do “more and better” in terms of sustainable use of MarinTrust, and ISO 22000.
marine ingredients. Besides price volatility, the sector is
facing several major challenges when sourcing marine Safety and conformity to regulations
ingredients: extreme variability in the quality of fishmeal In the European Union, there are strict regulations for
according to origin, species, season, process, etc.; the maximum levels (MLs) of contaminants such as
safety concerns with high levels of contaminants, such heavy metals, authorized in fishmeal and fish oil.
as heavy metals and microplastics; and sustainability Regulators view these levels in terms of safety for
issues with some poorly managed fisheries. the farmed animal, and ultimately, food for the
In this context, the limited supply of wild fish stocks consumer. However, the relevance of the MLs and the
should drive the optimization in their process preserving declining inclusion of fishmeal in modern aquafeeds
the unrivaled nutritional values of marine ingredients need urgent review. Parameters such as arsenic or
compared to other alternatives. Thus, Fish Protein mercury are unnecessarily restrictive, affecting the
Hydrolysates (FPH) from pelagic species feature many opportunity to use valuable marine byproducts in
key advantages that we will review through the case total contradiction with the EU’s Circular Economy and
study of the BLUE FISH FACTORY project, the first and Blue Growth initiatives.
new largest FPH plant in Morocco. Fortunately, pelagics like sardines are placed in the
mid-low Trophic Level (TL around 3) consuming prey
Sustainability and traceability such as copepods (Mounir, 2022). Hence, sardines
The fishing industry is considered a key activity for the have a naturally low level of contaminants as described
Moroccan economy (2-3% of the GDP). Pelagic species in Table 1.

38 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

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Table 1. Heavy metal values in Blue Fish Factory Fish Protein Hydrolysate

FPH from sardine, Blue Fish Factory Maximum levels based on 12% moisture
Heavy metals (as is - 5% moisture) (EU regulation on fishmeal)
Cadmium <0.9 ppm 2 ppm
Mercury <0.02 ppm 0.5 ppm
Lead <0.04 ppm 10 ppm
Arsenic <7 ppm 25 ppm

High nutritional values of fish protein hydrolysate worthwhile to mention the high content of non-essential
The enzymatic hydrolysis method ensures and preserves amino acids such as alanine, glycine, and proline, which
the full value of marine proteins, being more gentle in will participate in bioactive peptides, or the presence of
terms of temperature compared to the standard fishmeal taurine, reconsidered as essential for some species with
process, keeping a more stable amino acid profile. Most key metabolic functions (Salze, 2015).
FPH feature high crude protein levels from 75-85% (as is) The freshness of the byproducts should be effective and
in comparison to fishmeal (55 to 70%). Figure 1 describes a reality for pelagics dedicated to human consumption:
the content of essential amino acids of FPH from sardines daily landings to the canneries with no long storage
compared to vegetable proteins such as soy. It is also on board including cold storage conditions to prevent

Figure 1. Comparison of essential amino acid profiles of fishmeal (anchovy), fish protein hydrolysates (sardine), soy protein concentrate and
soybean meal (dehulled, standard, 48%)

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 39

PROTEINS

Table 2. Biogenic amines and total volatile nitrogen values in fish

protein hydrolysate protein sources are important for fish performance,
Parameter Indicative value especially in high plant protein/low fishmeal diets
(Kousoulaki, 2009). The FPH method allows us to keep
TVN (Total Volatile Nitrogen) <400 mg N/100 g
all the soluble proteins within the product. Table 3
Histamine (from histidine) <100 mg/kg details the water protein solubility of various marine
Cadaverine (from lysine) <300 mg/kg ingredients including live food. During the conventional
Putrescine (from arginine) <200 mg/kg
fishmeal process, the stick water rich in soluble
proteins might be insufficiently collected, concentrated
and injected back into the fish cake. Furthermore,
spoilage. This freshness is expressed in Table 2. harsh drying conditions induce protein denaturation
Biogenic amines are heat stable while Total Volatile and Maillard reaction. The high content of water-
Nitrogen (TVN) by definition considered volatile soluble protein fractions will clearly enhance the
compounds. TVN is considered mostly under two feed palatability in all situations, including the
forms: TMA (Trimethylamine) and ammonia. TMA better acceptance of medicated feeds. The protein
comes from the microbiota and bacterial growth while digestibility coefficient of FPH is considered to be above
ammonia comes from the amino acid decomposition. 95% for most species.
Therefore, TVN could be lower in fishmeal dried at high By definition, enzymatic protein hydrolysis consists
temperatures. However, in hydrolysates, TVN is mostly of water addition and a selected protease to
under the trimethylamine form and might be higher cleavage the peptide bonds of large proteins into
than in fishmeal. Recent studies highlight the key role of low molecular weight peptides and free amino
metabolites such as TMAO in osmoregulation and stress acids. Figure 2 compares the average Molecular
(Mengge, 2023). Weight (MW) distribution of fishmeal to the BLUE
FISH FACTORY FPH. While FPH is 90% below 5,000 Da
High protein solubility (average 3,300 Da) with 25% as free amino acids and di or
and molecular weight distribution tri-peptides, the fishmeal MW distribution is 90%
There is increasing evidence that some components below 60,000 Da (average 30,000 Da) with no detected
present in the water-soluble fraction of marine free amino acids.

Table 3. Values of protein solubility (%) in some marine ingredients

Protein solubility
Ingredient
(% of total crude protein, average values)
References

Artemia (nauplii) 54 to 67 Carvalho, 2003; Tonheim, 2007

Rotifers 54 to 61 Carvalho, 2003; Nordgreen, 2009
Calanus copepod 54 Tonheim, 2007; Nordgreen, 2009
Fishmeal 11 to 28 Tonheim, 2007; Folador, 2006; Opstvedt, 2003
Fish protein > 90 Blue Fish Factory, 2024
hydrolysate (sardine)

40 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 PROTEINS

Figure 2. Average molecular weight distribution in fishmeal and fish protein hydrolysate. Adapted from Chen, 2022; Blue Fish Factory, 2024.

Molecular weight distribution is related to the protein Conclusion

water solubility. It correlates also with higher protein In the challenging context of sustainability, availability
digestibility, meaning faster and easier intestinal and price, the aquaculture industry needs to improve
assimilation, well assessed for larvae and juveniles. the quality and processing methods of the unrivaled
marine ingredients. Fish protein hydrolysates from
Functional properties of fish protein hydrolysates pelagic species such as sardines feature some key
Bioactive peptides are defined “as the fragments technical advantages and offer the opportunity to do
of amino acid sequences in a protein that confer “better with less”.
biological functions beyond their nutritional
value”. These bioactive peptides are usually 2-20 References available on request.
amino acid residues in length with the frequent
presence of arginine, lysine or proline. They have
well-known properties in fish and shrimp, such as More information:
antimicrobial, antioxidant and immunomodulatory Dominique Corlay
activities. FPH from sardines contains specific bioactive Aquaculture Natural Solutions
peptides that help sustain animal health against E: [email protected]
Web: bluefishprotein.com
pathogens or reduce the antinutritional side effects of
high-vegetable diets (Costa et al., 2020).

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 41

PROTEINS

Soybean peptides
for a fish-free aquaculture
Liang Chao PhD., Jiangsu Fuhai Biotech Co., Ltd

In the global aquaculture industry, stakeholders are and the trial pond (0.38 acres). Initial fish weights were
actively seeking methods to reduce reliance on ocean- approximately 4.35 grams, with densities of 31,930 fish
derived materials. A groundbreaking trial in China has per acre in the control group and 41,763 fish per acre in
captured the interest of domestic and international the trial group.
aquaculture professionals alike. On January 3, 2025, The control group was fed conventional feed
Jiangsu Fuhai Biotech Co., Ltd (Fuhai Biotech) concluded containing 40% premium Peruvian fishmeal. For the
an 80-day "fish-free" soybean peptide feed trial for trial group, conventional extruded feed was used for
largemouth bass in Zhongshan, Guangdong Province. 111 days, followed by an 80-day fish-free feed trial
The trial culminated in a fish harvesting event attended incorporating 50% Fuhai products. Both ponds were
by over 40 guests, including 10 renowned researchers managed under identical conditions.
from universities and institutes, notably Academician On January 3, 2025, 60 fish were randomly selected
Professor Mai Kangsen of the Chinese Academy of from each pond for measurement.
Engineering. More than 30 technical managers from
leading Chinese aquafeed companies also participated. Results
The event was live-streamed, attracting tens of Trial results are summarized in Table 1. Dr. Liang
thousands of viewers online. Chao provided a detailed analysis of the trial results,
addressing the observed differences in liver condition,
Trial design higher Hepatosomatic Index (HSI), and Feed Conversion
The trial ran from June 25, 2024, to January 3, 2025. Ratio (FCR) in the Fuhai group compared to the control
Two ponds were used: the control pond (0.57 acres) group. FCR differences may be due to the different

42 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

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Table 1. Final results

Final Condition Hepatosomatic Viscerosomatic

Group FCR
average weight (g) factor index (HIS,%) index (VSI,%)
Control group 454.5 3.03 4.02 10.31 1.06
Fuhai Group 456.3 2.96 4.49 10.62 1.24

Attendees highlighted two key takeaways:

• Fishmeal replacement is feasible: Fuhai Biotech’s
fish-free feed trials, including a large-scale trial on
Seagull Island in Guangzhou in 2023, and the recent
verification in Zhongshan, consistently demonstrated
positive results. Fish fed with the alternative diet
exhibited excellent feeding rates, robust health, and
no signs of enteritis, signaling to the aquaculture
community that fish-free feed is a viable option.
•High-proportion soybean peptides are safe and
effective: The use of 50% soybean peptides in the trial
diet, an approach akin to a high-stress test, resulted
in healthy fish with normal growth and digestion. This
reassures the industry that lower inclusion levels of
soybean peptides are even more secure and practical
Sampling records
for broader adoption.
protein level, over 50% in the control feed and 45% in
the trial feed. He identified areas for improvement in Uniqueness of Fuhai products
the trial group’s feed formulation, specifically regarding Fuhai products feature a unique peptide-coated lipid
protein and fat content and composition, as well as capsule structure that is highly digestible and protects
micronutrient supplementation. The trial’s conditions lipids from oxidation. With lipid content reaching up to
– such as high summer temperatures, fish being fed 20%, the need for external oil spraying can be reduced
to satiation, and constant water quality adjustments or eliminated, minimizing the risk of oil oxidation
– placed significant metabolic pressure on the fish. during storage, especially at farming sites when applied
Additionally, the trial group’s much higher stocking correctly. Furthermore, Fuhai soybean peptides offer
densities contributed to these differences. excellent extrusion properties, allowing for reduced
starch content in the feed. This, in turn, helps lower
Global significance of the fish-free feed trial blood sugar levels in fish, promoting better overall
This trial carries global significance, showcasing health and reducing related issues.
a revolutionary feed formulation that replaces With advanced technologies and high-quality
fishmeal with 50% soybean peptides. As Dr. Liang products, Fuhai is dedicated to providing innovative
Chao remarked, a conventional fishmeal replacement solutions to promote the global aquaculture industry
of just a few percent would not have generated such toward a sustainable and prosperous future.
widespread interest.
At the trial’s conclusion, researchers and industry
representatives sampled steamed fish prepared without
spices or sauces. They unanimously praised the fish More information:
for its delicious flavor, firm texture, and lack of any Liangchao Phd
unpleasant aftertaste. Academician Mai and other Director of Aquafeed
experts shared valuable insights, encouraging Fuhai Jiangsu Fuhai Biotech Co., Ltd.
E: [email protected]
Biotech to expand its solutions to meet the needs of the
global aquaculture industry.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 43

PROTEINS

Breaking free from the ocean's grip:

A new era for aquatic feed
Federico Melenchón Ramírez, Nana Wentzel Thorringer, Olivier Hartz, Unibio

The aquaculture industry faces growing challenges due to its reliance on traditional feed
ingredients like fishmeal, which are subject to supply volatility and environmental concerns.
Novel solutions, such as Single Cell Protein (SCP) produced through gas fermentation, are
revolutionizing the sector. Uniprotein®, an SCP developed by Unibio offers a sustainable, reliable,
and functional alternative, providing a consistent protein source with minimal environmental
impact. Beyond basic nutrition, SCP enhances fish health and growth through its functional
properties, representing a breakthrough for a resilient and eco-friendly aquaculture industry.
This innovation is paving the way for a sustainable future, meeting the rising global demand
for protein.

Uniprotein® is provided both as pellets and powder

Imagine an aquaculture industry unshackled from the of healthy, thriving aquatic species. Could such a
whims of the ocean. A future where feed production reality exist?
isn't held to dwindling fish stocks and unpredictable For decades, the aquaculture industry has been
price swings. A world where sustainable, reliable, tethered to a single, volatile resource: fishmeal.
and even functional ingredients power the growth This reliance has created a precarious situation,

44 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 PROTEINS

leaving the industry vulnerable to supply shocks, What if a revolutionary technology

price fluctuations, and the ever-present threat of could provide something more?
overfishing. While alternative protein sources like These developments give place to allow the aquaculture
vegetable proteins have offered some respite, their own industry to break free from the ocean and agricultural-
set of challenges, including reliance on agriculture and centric dependency. What if a revolutionary technology
susceptibility to market disruptions, have limited their could provide something more, consistent, sustainable,
long-term viability. and even functionally beneficial source of protein for
The growing pressures of climate change, aquaculture? SCP produced through gas fermentation.
resource scarcity, and fluctuating markets demand This groundbreaking technology, pioneered by Unibio,
innovative solutions to secure a stable, efficient, offers a compelling alternative to traditional feed
and environmentally responsible ingredient supply ingredients, promising a future where aquaculture can
for aquaculture. thrive sustainably and profitably. This gas-to-protein
technology represents a paradigm shift in protein
Benefits of novel proteins production. Instead of relying on finite agricultural
Novel proteins such as insect meal, algae, fermented resources or depleting marine ecosystems, Unibio
soybean meal, corn fermented protein, and even harnesses the power of microorganisms to convert
bacteria are beginning to take center stage. methane into high-quality protein.
Novel protein alternatives demonstrate promising This innovative approach offers several key
nutritional profiles, enabling growth performance advantages:
comparable to fishmeal. Moreover, these alternatives Guaranteed supply: This technology enables
often exhibit the potential to enhance specific aspects on-demand production, ensuring a consistent and
of fish physiology, acting as functional ingredients. reliable supply of high-quality protein, independent of
This functional capacity is evident in their ability to weather patterns, crop yields, or geopolitical instability.
influence factors such as antioxidant status, immune Imagine a world where feed manufacturers can
response, and overall health and welfare. confidently plan their investment in new growth and
A significant advantage of many novel protein their production schedules, knowing that a stable and
sources is their potential to function beyond merely reliable protein source is always available.
providing essential nutrients. These “functional Sustainable production: The process minimizes
ingredients” can exert beneficial effects beyond basic environmental impact. Producing 1kg of Unibio’s
nutrition, enhancing various aspects of fish physiology. Uniprotein® requires significantly less water and
For instance, research has demonstrated that insect land compared to traditional soy protein sources,
meals, microalgae, and methanotrophic bacteria reducing the industry's ecological footprint. This aligns
can enhance antioxidant capacity and modulate the perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable and
immune response in fish and shrimp. environmentally responsible aquaculture practices.
Federico Melenchón Ramírez, Product Manager Consistent quality: Uniprotein® offers a standardized
Functional Health Ingredients, explains, "Novel protein and consistent protein source, eliminating the
alternatives offer a chance to move beyond basic quality variations often associated with plant-
nutrition. They can compete with fishmeal in terms based alternatives. This consistency is crucial for
of protein content and growth results, and even offer optimizing feed formulations and achieving predictable
additional benefits. Some novel ingredients can act and consistent growth performance in farmed
as functional ingredients, influencing fish physiology aquatic species.
beyond just providing basic nutrients. A great analysis
by Hatch Blue gives an overview of some of these Beyond basic nutrition: Functional ingredients
alternatives. Using a scoring system based on volume But Unibio's innovation extends beyond simply
potential, price/T, amount of crude protein and providing a sustainable protein source. Uniprotein® has
digestibility, methanotroph bacteria and insect meals the potential to go beyond basic nutrition, acting as a
were considered as the highest scoring and most functional ingredient that enhances the health and well-
promising among these alternatives.” being of farmed animals.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 45

PROTEINS

Preliminary research conducted by Unibio A/S and Uniprotein®. Ongoing trials and positive client feedback
Matis has revealed an exciting potential for Uniprotein® paint a bright future for the world of alternative protein
as a functional ingredient. Studies have shown that sources in aquaculture.
incorporating Uniprotein® into the diets of Atlantic "At Unibio, we are committed to offering the best
salmon may shorten the time required for the fish to possible product and establishing ourselves as the
develop an effective immune response after vaccination leading provider of methanotroph-based protein
against Vibrio salmonicida. solutions," adds Melenchón Ramírez. "We collaborate
This suggests that gas-fermented protein could act with numerous companies and research institutions
as a functional ingredient, "teasing" the fish's immune worldwide to continuously improve Uniprotein® and
system in a controlled way, similar to a pathogen but explore its full potential. Ongoing trials and positive
without causing harm. This can translate to faster client feedback paint a bright future for the world of
and more effective vaccination, leading to a stronger alternative protein sources in aquaculture."
immune system, reduced susceptibility to disease, and
lower antibiotic use. The future of aquaculture:
Imagine a future where aquaculture practices not Sustainable, efficient and resilient
only minimize environmental impact but also enhance The future of aquaculture lies in embracing innovation
the health and well-being of farmed animals. A future and embracing sustainable solutions. By harnessing
where robust immune systems and reduced disease the power of gas-to-protein technology, the industry
outbreaks contribute to a more sustainable and can break free from the constraints of traditional feed
profitable industry. Gas fermentation has the potential ingredients, reduce its reliance on finite resources, and
to make this vision a reality. build a more resilient and sustainable future.
Moreover, the nutritional profile of gas to protein
A new era of collaboration and innovation is remarkable and brings the protein content similar
Unibio is at the forefront of this transformative shift, to fishmeal while having 5% more total amino acids
collaborating with numerous companies and research and, additionally, 9% more essential amino acids
institutions worldwide to unlock the full potential of compared to fishmeal. The nutritional profile of SCP

46 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 PROTEINS

cannot stand alone, however, the protein digestibility of

Uniprotein® in aquatic species stands out with 81-88%
dependent on species.
“In today's market, characterized by rapid
technological advancements and the swift exchange
of information, staying abreast of emerging trends
has become increasingly challenging, often disrupting
business predictability. For feed producers, raw
material price volatility remains a critical concern, as
demonstrated by fluctuations in the costs of fishmeal
and soybean meal, among others,” says Nana Wentzel
Thorringer, Technical Development Manager, Animal
Nutrition at Unibio.
She continues: “In this context, the reliable availability
of methane presents a significant advantage for Unibio
A/S as producers of methanotrophic SCP. This resource
enables Unibio to decouple production processes from
the typical annual cycles of raw material pricing, thereby
offering greater price stability and predictability.
Uniprotein®
Uniprotein® expands the basket of high protein
ingredients for feed producers without compromising References
animal health, digestibility or growth delivering FAO (2022). The State of World Fisheries and
tomorrow's protein demand in a VUCA (Volatility, Aquaculture 2022.
Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) world.” Hatch Blue (2024). Emerging Protein-Rich Ingredients
Unibio’s Chief Commercial Officer Olivier Hartz for Aquaculture.
summarizes that “Unibio is a leading player in gas- Global Metrics for Sustainable Feed. GFLI database.
to-protein fermentation and is poised to usher in a
new era of sustainable protein production.
Our innovative technology produces high-quality SCP
More information:
with several key advantages:
Federico Melenchón Ramírez
• Predictable and consistent supply through long-term Product Manager
contracts. Functional Health Ingredients
• Year-round availability, unaffected by climate Unibio
variability.
• Minimal environmental impact, requiring 2x less
water and 25x less land per kg of protein compared
to soybean meal. Nana Wentzel Thorringer
• Scalable production to meet evolving market Technical Development Manager
demands. Unibio
With Unibio’s Uniprotein®, we offer a sustainable
solution to the growing need for high-quality protein
sources worldwide.”
This is not just about replacing fishmeal; it's about
unlocking the full potential of aquaculture – a sector Olivier Hartz
Chief Commercial Officer
that can provide a vital source of protein for a growing
Unibio
global population while minimizing its environmental E: [email protected]
impact. The time for change is now. The future of
aquaculture is bright, and Unibio is leading the way.

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 47

INTERVIEW

Driving sustainability in
animal nutrition: The role
of the Global Feed LCA Institute
Lucía Barreiro

The Global Feed LCA Institute (GFLI) is become more sustainable,” explained Arjen Voortman
transforming sustainability in animal nutrition by from the GFLI Secretariat in an interview with Aquafeed.
developing a comprehensive, globally accessible com. European companies began gathering carbon
database for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), footprint data around 2010, and the effort evolved
enabling the feed and food industries to reduce organically until 2019 when GFLI was officially founded.
environmental impacts and enhance transparency.
For food producers, embracing sustainability is With its headquarters
not merely a trendy marketing strategy; it’s about in the United States and
making responsible decisions that significantly impact a secretariat in Europe,
the environment. Feeds are one of the primary GFLI operates globally.
contributors to the carbon footprint in aquaculture Initially managed by a
production, making it essential to address sustainability five-member board,
in recent years. the institute has since
A key resource in the quest for sustainability is the Life expanded to include a
Cycle Assessment (LCA). However, as a relatively new Technical Management
tool, LCA methodologies have varied widely, leading Committee made up of
to inconsistent and non-standardized data across the LCA experts elected by
industry. GFLI members, and a
In this context, the Global Feed LCA Institute (GFLI) Scientific Advisory Council, which ensures the accuracy
was established as an independent animal nutrition of methodologies through external researchers.
and food industry institute. Its mission is to develop Membership spans national and international
a globally accessible, evolving animal nutrition Life associations like IFFO, IFIF, and the U.S. Soybean
Cycle Analysis (LCA) database that supports meaningful Export Council, as well as corporations like Nutreco,
environmental assessments of animal nutrition De Heus, ADM, Adisseo, and Zinpro, among others.
products while driving continuous improvement in Currently, all members are connected to the feed
environmental performance across the animal nutrition industry, but GFLI envisions broader value chain
and feed industry. participation in the future.
“We all agree that feed is a critical part of the supply
The organization chain in becoming more sustainable. We see a clear role
The GFLI is a non-profit, member-based organization for engaging downstream partners, such as retailers, as
founded by multiple associations within the feed essential for the future,” Voortman noted.
industry. It was formally established in 2019 as an While GFLI aims for comprehensive coverage of the
independent entity. entire animal industry, progress varies across regions.
“Before that, there was a ‘coalition of the willing’, “The main drivers are Europe and the U.S., with Asia
consisting of companies and associations that a key target to expand our global representation.
envisioned collecting data to help the feed industry However, corporate membership in Asia is currently

48 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 INTERVIEW

low, so we invite Asian stakeholders to join GFLI and agencies, and companies aiming to reduce their
engage with us and our members,” said Voortman. environmental footprint.
Membership benefits include database access, Initially, GFLI envisioned its data being used for the
discounts on data usage, the ability to nominate company’s internal calculations, customer support,
members to the Technical Management Committee, and academic research. As environmental calculations
board participation, and the opportunity to act as evolve, so do GFLI’s use cases. “For instance, we now
ambassadors. “For companies aiming to enter European work with associations that aim to distribute data
markets, where specific reporting guidelines are in among members, which represents a totally different
place, data provision can be particularly advantageous,” use case,” Voortman explained.
added Voortman.

Figure 1. GFLI member growth in total Figure 2. GFLI datasets

The database GFLI follows FAO-LEAP guidelines, and its methodology

The GFLI database provides comprehensive is compliant with the EU Product Environmental
environmental impact data, including greenhouse Footprint Category Rules (PEFCR) for feed
gas emissions, using LCA metrics from a cradle-to- ingredients. “Every update we implement ensures
gate of the feed mill. It is comprised of LCA data from compliance with LEAP and PEFCR standards,” Voortman
various sources, which are contributed by so-called emphasized.
“data providers”, ranging from research institutes,
universities, industry consortia, and other entities Branded data
interested in modeling or contributing data. A unique GFLI initiative is the development of branded
The GFLI database contains default datasets data, enabling feed ingredient producers to showcase
based on statistics, and sectoral datasets based on the environmental impact of their specific products.
primary company data, and is the acknowledged This approach provides transparency, credibility for
secondary database for feed ingredients by and for customers, and the ability to compare products against
the feed industry. As of September 2024, the database sector averages.
contained 1,830 datasets, with the majority from As branded data is currently not widely available in, or
Europe (57.3%), followed by North America (15.1%) and accepted by, existing life cycle databases, a pilot phase
Asia (14.1%). was initiated by GFLI to test the robustness of the draft
The data is available in three formats, catering to methodology about different types of feed ingredients
different users such as nutritionists via feed formulation and ultimately determine the feasibility of including this
software, LCA practitioners, researchers, government kind of data in GFLI.

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INTERVIEW

Branded data, not widely available or accepted in about LCA for their member on their website but also
existing databases, requires rigorous quality standards actively engages their global members to collect data
of level of primary data necessary and its quality rating and participate in GFLI’s “Data-in projects” to have
as aligned with the EU PEFCR feed (which ranges from accurate and representative data of their sector in the
1 to 5, whereas 1 is seen as best available data, and GFLI database.
5 being either no longer representative in time or
technological representativeness). “To participate in Looking ahead
the branded data project, data quality ratings must be GFLI’s goal is to harmonize global data collection
below 1.6, compared to the 3.0 standard for sectoral and provide tools for the industry to achieve greater
studies. This ensures companies cannot misuse data for sustainability.
commercial claims,” Voortman explained. “As a non-profit, all funding is reinvested into
By aggregating branded data, GFLI aims to expanding the database, improving technical
continuously update sectoral averages, keeping the possibilities, and fostering collaboration across the
industry equipped with the most accurate data. value chain. There is no profit motive – only the goal
“The industry is shifting from requesting general of making the industry more sustainable,” Voortman
information, such as the average environmental impact explained. “The industry itself sees value in the data but
of soy, to specific, real-time data about the soy the in the end, somebody needs to pay for an investment
company uses,” Voortman noted. as well. We are trying to find a balance on how we can
monetize that in a way that we know we can provide
that additional value to the value chain.”
Building this database has not been an easy task.
Data providers face high costs for data collection, data
modeling, and critical external reviews. GFLI seeks to
lower this barrier to attract more contributors.
“We also have some limitations in terms of IT
infrastructure that have prompted plans for upgrades
including APIs for enhanced interactivity. As the number
of members increases, so does the funding that will
allow us to become more robust,” Voortman said.
Europe has embraced sustainability, especially with
directives like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting
Directive (CSRD), reinforcing the need for harmonized
global standards. GFLI aims to set these standards,
offering a global methodology that can be also used for
benchmarking and regulators. “We’re proud to be an
Figure 3. GFLI member growth per group
industry-led initiative, and that value is recognized by
The aquafeed industry legislators. We are also eager to expand membership
The aquafeed industry is highly engaged in out of Europe, particularly in Asia and South America,”
sustainability efforts and actively supports GFLI’s Voortman said.
initiatives. “Aquafeed companies are well-organized
and collaborate across the value chain, which is rare Call to action
in other feed sectors,” said Voortman. One of the “Our database and services offer immense possibilities,
founding members of the GFLI is the Norwegian but we have limited resources and funding. We call
Seafood Federation, which demonstrates the aquafeed on stakeholders to join as members, sponsors, or
industry’s commitment to sustainability. collaborators,” Voortman concluded. “By working
Another active member is IFFO - The Marine together, we can achieve sustainability goals and create
Ingredients Organisation, which not only a brighter future for the industry.”
disseminates sustainability facts and information For more information, contact [email protected].

50 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

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Shrimp nutrition & health:

A holistic approach
Albert G. Tacon, Ph.D.
Aquahana LLC, [email protected]
In marked contrast to the salmon farming industry where animals are universally reared at high stocking densities
within open-net cages and fed exclusively on nutritionally complete high-fat extruded feeds using automated
feeding systems, the shrimp farming industry is characterized by its wide diversity of different farming systems,
feeds, and feeding regimes used (Fig. 1).

Figure 1. Shrimp farming problems: Different culture systems, genetics and feeds used

Figure 2. Another major issue: Need to reduce stress and disease during the culture cycle

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While this may be a blessing from a shrimp farmer’s perspective, because of the ability of shrimp (unlike salmon)
to filter live food organisms from the water column, (depending upon the farming system employed), this creates
a major issue for shrimp feed compounder when formulating feeds for specific farming systems and/or stocking
densities. Moreover, as shrimp stocking densities have increased with the progressive intensification of farming
systems, there is an important need to reduce shrimp stress and disease occurrence through the use of improved
farm biosecurity and formulating feeds for optimum health and disease resistance (Fig. 2). Figure 3 shows the
generalized relationship between different environmental and nutritional stressors on shrimp nutrition and health.

Figure 3. Nutrition and health interactions (modified after Tacon & Tran, 2022)

In particular, as global feed ingredient prices have risen, there has been increasing pressure on the shrimp
feedmanufacturing sector toward the increased use of lower cost plant-based feed ingredient sources, including
plant oilseed meals and legumes (25-50% by weight, including soybean meal, soybean protein concentrate,
rapeseed meal, canola protein concentrate, canola meal, sunflower seed meal, cottonseed meal, peanut meal,
pea protein meals, and lupin kernel meal) and cereals (15-35% by weight, including wheat flour, corn flour, rice
polishings, wheat middlings, wheat gluten, wheat gluten meal, corn gluten meal, corn protein concentrates,
distillers dried grains with solubles; Fig. 4).

Figure 4. Increasing use of plant proteins, meals and oils in shrimp feeds

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COLUMN

Notwithstanding their lower-cost compared to animal-based feed ingredient sources, almost all plant-based
feed ingredients contain endogenous anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) and mycotoxin contaminants, which unless
removed through processing or inactivated can have a negative effect on feed intake, growth, gut health, nutrient
digestion, immune response, and consequent disease susceptibility and health. ANFs and mycotoxins are secondary
metabolites produced by plants and filamentous fungi which serve protective functions within plants against
insects and animal predators for maximize plant survival (Fig, 5, 6).

Figure 5. Endogenous anti-nutritional factors within common plant feed ingredients

Figure 6. Mycotoxins, the hidden threat

The gastro-intestinal tract of shrimp is the first line of defense from the viewpoint of shrimp ingesting compound
feeds, and so it follows that maintaining gut integrity and gut health is of paramount importance. Figure 7 shows
the negative effect of different ANFs and mycotoxins on gut health.

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 COLUMN

Figure 7. Negative effects of ANFs and mycotoxins in aquaculture species

The commercial aquafeed sector uses the following strategies to minimize or reduce the effect of mycotoxins:
• Limiting use of lower cost/quality feed ingredients: cereal byproduct meals, use of expired ingredients, use of
floor sweepings;
• Use of organic acids and feed additives to prevent/limit mold growth in finished feeds: propionic acid, sorbic acid,
herbs and spices, essential oils, phenolic antioxidants;
• Use of mycotoxin binders to prevent the absorption of mycotoxins: clay minerals, bentonites, zeolites, activated
charcoal, yeast and yeast cell wall derived products, algae extracts, chitin oligosaccharides, and synthetic
polymers;
• Use of microorganisms/dietary enzymes to bio-transform mycotoxins in GI-tract;
• At the farm level: store feeds under cool well-ventilated conditions, use on a first-in first-out basis, not subjected
to adulteration by top-dressing prior to use, ensure feed bags are not left outdoors (hours) prior to feeding,
following good BMPs
Figure 8 shows strategies to manage ANFs. Clearly, feeds need to be formulated for optimum growth performance
and feed efficiency, but also for optimum gut health, microbiome development, and shrimp immune capability.

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COLUMN

Figure 8. Commercial methods used for ANFs removal and/or reduction

In conclusion, although many specific nutrients and feed additives have been reported with beneficial effects on
shrimp health and well-being (Fig. 9), many of these feed additives have not been proven under practical farming
conditions within market-sized animals, and their use efficacy economically clearly demonstrated.

Figure 9. Feed additives with reported health benefits – direct or indirect

For example, Figure 10 shows the important role played by butyric acid and tributyrates on gut health and integrity,
and Figure 11 shows the beneficial effect of using tributyrates within independent shrimp feeding trials conducted
under field conditions.

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 RESEARCH

Figure 10. Reported benefits of butyric acid and tributyrates in animal gut health

Figure 11. Beneficial effects of tributyrates in hepatopancreas and intestine of Pacific white shrimp at 10 weeks
(Loc Tran, personal communication)

The real cost of mycotoxins and ANFs to the feed compounder, the farmer, and the consumer are real and should be
viewed at three levels:
• The real cost to the aquafeed compounder, in terms of ingredient sourcing, quality control, additional processing
requirements, the use of specific feed additives to mitigate the effects of ANFs and mycotoxins
• The real cost to the farmer, in terms of reduced growth, feed efficiency, gut health, immune capability, disease
resistance, survival, and farm profitability
• The real cost to the consumer, in terms of the possibility of mycotoxin carry-over into edible tissues and possible
danger to human health and wellbeing
It is hoped that this paper will stimulate renewed research interest in ANFs and mycotoxins, and the mitigation
strategies used for their removal and/or deactivation.

The current paper is based on the presentation made by the author in Natal (Brazil) at Fenacam from November
19-22, 2024, and is summarized here.

References
Tacon, A.G.J. & L. Tran. (2022). Nutritional fish and shrimp pathology: A handbook. 5m Books Ltd (Publishers), Lings,
Great Easton, Essex, UK: 162p. ISBN-13:9781789181319

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 57

RESEARCH

Hacking the line: A systematic

review of how probiotics
disrupt bacterial communication
through quorum-quenching
Edeth Novia Tubal, Brett Laudato, VDS, N.V.

Communication has long been an evolutionary survival and causes individual biochemical reaction cascades
tool for plants and animals. These living organisms that result in the regulation of gene expressions (Xiao
communicate constantly, either by gestures, sounds, et al., 2022). As a consequence, the individual gene
actions, colors, smells, or pheromones. Meanwhile, regulation may trigger the whole bacterial community
bacteria can also communicate. A single cell can literally to activate some of its detrimental phenotypes: toxin
send messages to nearby cells and is also capable of secretion, biofilm formation, and other virulence factors
listening back for feedback. These constant two-way (Miller & Bassler, 2001) which causes severe tissue
communications influence the cell’s individual behavior damage to its host.
to create an organizational behavior that is well aligned On the other hand, if a bacterium detects no or low
with a common goal. The bacterial common goals for concentration of autoinducer, particularly during an
survival are, to name a few, biofilm formation, virulence unfavorable condition, some species can undergo
factor production, and bioluminescence (Miller & sporulation (Sarah, 2024), modifications to their cellular
Bassler, 2001). membranes, some produce damage-repairing enzymes,
or synthesize molecules to alleviate stress (Storz &
The bacterial dialogue Hengge, 2010).
Bacteria can still interact with other bacteria thanks
to a mechanism called Quorum-Sensing (QS). This Quorum-sensing: Gram-positive vs. Gram-negative
process enables bacterial cells to exchange information Bacteria are classified as either Gram-positive or
with one another, which can manage their virulence Gram-negative. Its cell walls are one of its primary
(Rutherford & Bassler, 2012). The key element in the QS distinguishing characteristics. Gram-negative bacteria
system is the production of “autoinducer”, a chemical (GNB) have thinner peptidoglycan cell walls than
molecule that diffuses outside of a bacterial cell. This Gram-positive bacteria (GPB). The former has an outer
autoinducer is usually a unique molecule produced by membrane composed of lipopolysaccharide, while the
the same family (Rutherford & Bassler, 2012). In simple latter lacks one (Xiao et al., 2022).
terms, bacterial cell releases (endogenous) and detects GPB and GNB have distinct quorum-sensing
(exogeneous) autoinducers to "sense" how many mechanisms: GNB uses N-acyl homoserine lactone
bacterial cells are present nearby for a "quorum" to (AHL) molecules (autoinducer-1, AI-1), while GPB uses
happen on a common goal (Sarah, 2024). autoinducing peptides (AIPs) (Taga & Bassler, 2003). Due
In the case of a high same-family bacterial population, to the small size and lipophilicity of AHL autoinducers,
there will be a consequent high concentration of they readily pass the cell membrane using passive
autoinducers in a certain region of space. This high diffusion (Sifri, 2008). Therefore, GNBS have a more
concentration is detected by each of the bacterial cells effective QS-system than GPBs.

58 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 RESEARCH

Figure 1. How quorum-sensing works in a high-dense bacterial Figure 2. How quorum-sensing works in a low-dense bacterial
population. population.

Figure 3. The different types of molecules responsible for quorum-

quenching exhibited by Gram-positive bacteria.

Figure 4. Examples of Quorum-Quenching Enzymes. Figure 5. Examples of quorum-sensing inhibitors.

Source: Rémy et al., 2018 Source: Rémy et al., 2018

Aquaculture bacteria community Aeromonas salmonicida, Pseudomonas anguilliseptica,

Pathogenic bacteria, usually GNBs, are typically Vibrio harveyi and V. anguillarum, Moritella viscosa, and
responsible for disease outbreaks while GPBs are Tenacibaculosis (Irshath et al., 2023).
only responsible to a lesser extent (Bacterial Fish On the other hand, a number of GPBs are commercially
Diseases, 2022). The most common examples of GNBs used in aquaculture (known commonly as probiotics)
that continuously pester the aquaculture sector are because of their benefits: i.e., improved feed efficiency,

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RESEARCH

disease resistance, and the growth of culture animals, to Quorum-quenching probiotics: A systematic review
name a few. Some of these species include Bacillus sp., To verify the effectiveness of quorum-quenching
Lactobacillus sp., Enterococcus sp., Carnobacterium sp., potential of probiotics against aquaculture pathogens,
and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae among others a systematic review was conducted. The main objective
(Martínez Cruz et al., 2012). is the synthesis of diverse relevant research findings
and consolidate the current results in various published
Quorum-quenching: scientific journals.
Hacking the communication network An extensive literature search was conducted using the
Recent studies have shown that GPBs have databases PubMed and ScienceDirect. The search query
a QS-suppression ability (Prazdnova et al., 2022). included a combination of the following keywords:
This mechanism is called Quorum-Quenching (QQ), ((quorum sensing) OR (quorum sensing inhibition) OR
or the disruption of QS signaling or intercellular (quorum quenching)) AND (aquaculture). In total, 15
communication (Prazdnova et al., 2022). GPBs are studies qualified for analysis (Table 1). Survival rate from
thought to have developed this QQ strategy as an the pathogen challenge test was the common criterion
antagonistic mechanism against competitors, usually among the studies, thus, it was used to calculate the
GNBs (Moradi & Hadi, 2021). There are several outcome effect in fish and in crustaceans following the
processes in which QQ can occur: (i) small molecules methodology outlined by Neyeloff et al. (2012).
called Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors (QSIs) can inhibit Given that the survival data in all studies were
or interfere with the synthesis of autoinducers or reported in absolute survival rate, the survival
AHL (Tang & Zhang, 2014); (ii) QQ antibodies such as data from each qualified study was normalized using
Cyclodextrin scavenge autoinducers (Park et al., 2007) Formula (1) to allow comparison among the cross-
or; (iii) extracellular hydrolysis of the autoinducers using sectional studies.
QQ enzymes (Fetzner, 2015). All these QQ processes Survival%N = Survival% –Survival% x100 (Formula 1)
P C
Survival%
prevent autoinducers from achieving the maximum
P

threshold value for detection (Moradi & Hadi, 2021; Where Survival%P is the survival rate of animals when
Weiland-Bräuer, 2021). treated with probiotics, Survival%C is the survival rate of

Figure 6. Identification, screening, and selection of relevant scientific journal articles to be included in the systematic review.

60 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 RESEARCH
Table 1. Summary of the fish studies included in the systemic study and the results.

Challenge test
Survival

Study Animal host Probiotic Pathogen Duration improvement Other
(1hr) (%) (% reduction)

Santos et al., 2021 Danio rerio Bacillus spp. (FI436) Edwardsiella tarda 24 61%
Biofilm suppression: 22%
Torabi Delshad
Onchorrynchus Bacillus thuringiensis Yersinia ruckeri 336 100% QS inhibition: 100%
et al., 2018
mykiss Bacterial motility
suppression: 68%
Carassius
Chu et al., 2011 Bacillus spp. (QSI-1) Aeromonas hydrophila 336 90%
auratus gibelio
Biofilm suppression: 80%
Aeromonas
Chu et al., 2014
Danio rerio Bacillus spp. (QSI-1) hydrophila (YJ-1) 336 84% Hemolytic activity
reduction: 78%
Biofilm suppression: 45%
Bacterial motility
Ghanei-Motlagh
Lates calcarifer Bacillus cereus QQ2 Vibrio alginolyticus 288 63% suppression: 50%
et al., 2021
Bacterial swarming
suppression: 71%
Pseudomonas Vibrio
Vinoj et al., 2015
Danio rerio aeruginosa PsDAHP1 parahaemolyticus 480 75% Biofilm suppression: 77%

Bacillus Aeromonas
Chen et al., 2020
Danio rerio licheniformis (T-1) hydrophila 72 71%

Vadassery & Pillai, Enterococcus Aeromonas

Carassius auratus 336 85%
2020 faecium (QQ12) hydrophila
Vadassery Haridas Lactobacillus Aeromonas
Carassius auratus 336 87%
et al., 2022 plantarum (QQ8) hydrophila
Vadassery Haridas Lactobacillus Aeromonas
Carassius auratus 336 85%
et al., 2022 casei (QQ10) hydrophila
Vadassery Haridas Enterococcus Aeromonas
Carassius auratus 336 88%
et al., 2022 faecium (QQ12) hydrophila
Vadassery Haridas Bacillus Aeromonas
Carassius auratus 336 87%
et al., 2022 thuringiensis (QQ17) hydrophila
Outcome (random effect model, value ± SE) 83 ± 1%

Table 2. Summary of the shrimp studies included in the systemic study and the results.

Challenge test
Survival
Study
Animal host Probiotic Pathogen Duration improvement Other
(1hr) (%) (% reduction)

Biofilm suppression: 64%

Shaheer et al., 2021 Penaeus monodon Bacillus spp. (MFB7) Vibrio harveyi MFBP5 120 91%
QS inhibition: 72%
Psychrobacter sp. Vibrio coralliilyticus
Reina et al., 2021 Artemia salina 72 37% QS inhibition: 100%
(M9-54-1) VibC-Oc-193
Stenotrophomonas Vibrio coralliilyticus
Reina et al., 2019
Artemia salina maltophilia (M9-54-2) VibC-Oc-193 72 37%

Macrobrachium Bacillus cereus LNE7 Vibrio

Pande et al., 2015 rosenbergii (AM397642.1) campbellii 144 37%

Litopenaeus Bioflocs (no bacterial Vibrio

Widanarni et al., 2024 vannamei identification) parahaemolyticus 120 98% Biofilm suppression: 32%

Outcome (random effect model, value ± SE) 61 ± 12%

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 61

RESEARCH

Figure 7. One of the methods to indirectly detect the production of autoinducers in bacteria is to employ a second bacteria, also
called "reporter" bacteria, which can detect these autoinducers and elicit an observable response, or in this photo, fluorescent light.
The V. anguillarium and Y. ruckeri strains produced autoinducers which caused this specific E.coli strain to glow.

animals without probiotics treatment, and Survival%N is It must also be noted that these results are all based on
the normalized survival rate (percentage improvement carefully-controlled conditions. In actual environments,
from the control). the situation may be more complex due to the
The outcome of the systematic review showed interactions between bacteria, their host organisms, as
that probiotics with quorum-quenching capabilities, well as the surrounding environment which can further
when tested in vivo, improved the survival rate of complicate the outcomes.
pathogen-challenged animals by 83% for fish and by
61% for crustaceans. Some of the qualified studies, References available on request.
by in vitro confirmation, demonstrated that several
virulence factors were suppressed. This virulence
suppression may partially (or fully) explain the significant
improvement in survival rate during pathogen infection.
More information:
Conclusion
Edeth Novia Tubal
The quorum-quenching ability of some probiotics is a Master student, Student Intern
promising approach to directly address the devastating VDS, N.V.
effects of aquaculture crop losses during pathogenic e: [email protected]
bacteria outbreaks. This systematic review revealed
in vitro suppression of some virulence factors and in
vivo significant improvement in the survival rate of the
animals. Although more research is necessary to further Brett Laudato
R&D Aquaculture
elucidate the QQ mechanisms, it is quite clear that some
VDS, N.V.
probiotic strains can be used as an environmentally E: [email protected]
friendly substitute for antibiotics in the aquaculture
sector thanks to their QQ-mechanism.

62 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 RESEARCH

Innovative sustainable
recirculating aquaculture feeds:
The InSuRAFeed project
Dr Nicola Pontefract, Hannah Mance, Dr Jack James, Pontus Research Ltd.

Over 300 species of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and

other aquatic organisms are now produced by the
aquaculture industry, and over half of the seafood
consumed globally is produced through aquaculture
(FAO, 2022), making it a vital sector in meeting the
world's demand for fish. Aquafeeds account for
approximately 50-70% of total industry production
costs (Barreiro, 2023) and must be formulated to meet
the specific nutritional requirements of each individual
species (Glencross, 2025). At present, ingredients
for aquafeeds are sourced from across the world,
reflecting the global nature of the industry (Oliva-
Teles et al., 2025), but also impose large associated
“feed miles”, greenhouse gas emissions and carbon
footprints upon the finished aquafeed, subsequently
diminishing sustainability.

InSuRAFeed project
Considering the increasing global demand for
sustainable and resource-efficient protein sources,
the need to reduce the environmental footprint of the
aquaculture industry, and the commitment of the UK
government to support the growth of the aquaculture
sector, Pontus Research launched the InSuRAFeed
project in 2023 with generous financial support from the •N  on-soy, including derivatives or products with a soy-
Welsh government and the Co-Op Carbon Innovation derived product added during finishing
Fund. This project investigates the feasibility and • Locally sourced and processed (i.e. within the UK)
potential of producing aquafeeds utilizing exclusively • Sustainably sourced (i.e. where possible, not captured
UK-sourced ingredients for two commercially valuable from wild fisheries, impacting ecosystem provisions,
UK species, mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio) and rainbow with the exception of fishmeal)
trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), and demonstrates their • Attractive nutrient profile (i.e. favorable protein/lipid
performance in vivo in comparison to a commercially content)
available control diet. A wide range of ingredient suppliers was approached
The conditions determining an ingredient's suitability during the scouting phase for prospective aquafeed
for inclusion within the project were simple: ingredients: from the well-established ingredient

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 63

RESEARCH

suppliers to a variety of UK startups, in addition to

university-based research teams producing novel
ingredients via alternative manufacture routes, local
Welsh farmers, two independent UK mills, and
government-funded research institutions.
A fundamental aim of this research was to design
experimental aquafeeds that would be comparable to
commercial controls, not only in terms of the health and
growth of the fish but also in terms of price. Therefore,
the wholesale cost of a metric tonne of each individual
ingredient was provided by the respective suppliers,
allowing for the determination of the cost of the
experimental aquafeed during the formulation phase.
As expected, there was a wide variation in price for composition of an appropriate commercial control as
the different ingredients, ranging from the most closely as possible.
expensive novel protein sources such as hemp and The experimental aquafeeds were manufactured
algae (£7,000-£8,000/tonne) to insect proteins and by Pontus Research’s in-house feed mill. Following
novel animal byproducts such as mussel and crab meals confirmation of their suitability for administration, and
(£2,000-£4,000/tonne), to the alternative plant-based further internal quality control checks, feeding trials in
proteins such as faba beans, lupins, peas and rapeseed both species commenced during the summer of 2024.
(£300-£550/tonne). The mirror carp trial ran for a total of 93 days.
As presented in Figure 1, the “expensive” and
Trials in mirror carp and rainbow trout “moderate” experimental diets performed very well,
From the 22 suitable ingredients identified, and with demonstrating significantly improved Specific Growth
reference to the current price of an appropriate Ratios (SGR) and Feed Conversion Ratios (FCR) in
commercial control diet, “expensive”, “moderate”, comparison to the fish administered the commercial
and “economical” experimental aquafeeds were control and “economic” experimental feed.
formulated for each species: iso-nitrogenous, iso- After 42 days of administration, rainbow trout fed the
calorific, and iso-lipidic aquafeeds that meet the “expensive” and “economical” experimental aquafeeds
known nutritional requirements of mirror carp and demonstrated significantly improved SGR and FCR
rainbow trout respectively, aligning with the proximate values in comparison to those fed the commercial

Figure 1. Mirror carps trial results

64 Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025

 RESEARCH

Figure 2. Rainbow trout trial results

control diet (Fig. 2). Additionally, all three experimental efficient RAS operation, as particulate waste from
trout aquafeeds exhibited optimal Apparent Digestibility feed pellets and animals can contribute to system
Coefficients (ADC) for protein (91-94%), lipid (89-92%), dysfunction, impacting water quality and animal health
and energy (80-86%), suggesting the diets are optimally (Ramil et al., 2020). We are therefore additionally
balanced, promoting excellent fish performance, and performing waste characterization evaluations in the
are suitably sustainable without causing a nutritional form of particle size analysis, to determine the effect
deficit or nutrient waste. of the experimental aquafeeds on the efficiency and
functionality of the system.
Further trials Historically, the UK has struggled with the long-
Exhibiting a significantly greater weight gain (data not term success of RAS facilities, often due to increased
shown) in comparison to all other treatments and operating costs, suitable and cost-effective aquafeed
considering its strong performance in comparison to sources, and facility issues. By offering locally sourced,
the commercial control, iterations of the “moderate” RAS-specific, competitively priced aquafeeds and
experimental mirror carp aquafeed will be investigated limiting the impact of poor feed choices on facility
further. Similarly, following the encouraging results infrastructure, the InSuRAFeed project will support the
from the “expensive” and “economical” experimental development of a sustainable, profitable, and viable
aquafeeds for rainbow trout, these diets will also be land-based aquaculture sector in the UK. Furthermore,
further refined and tested in vivo in the spring of 2025. this project will help the UK meet its commitments to
This research remains ongoing. Additional analyses increasing aquaculture production and promote the
(not presented here) are still underway, including adoption of sustainable practices in the industry. It is
histological analysis of the gills, skin and distal intestine our ambition to continue the InSuRAFeed project for
that will provide further insights into the mucosal other high-value species in the future.
health of the fish following administration; a range
of hematological parameters; and assessment of References available on request.
epidermal mucus quality. Life Cycle Analysis of the
different ingredients is also underway which will provide
valuable information regarding the environmental More information:
impacts of the experimental diets. Nicola Pontefract
A final and notable characteristic of the designed Research Scientist
aquafeeds is that they are specifically intended for Pontus Research Ltd.
Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS). Waste E: [email protected]
management is a crucial aspect of successful and

Aquafeed: Advances in Processing & Formulation Vol 17 Issue 1 2025 65

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