Skretting recently launched Necto, the company’s first product to feature PhytoComplexes developed specifically for aquaculture. These PhytoComplexes were created in collaboration with Nutreco Exploration, a division of Nutreco specializing in plant research and the development of novel, proprietary ingredients.
These PhytoComplexes represent a first for the aquafeed industry. “Traditionally, phytogenic ingredients have been used as additives or extracts, but by utilizing whole plants or plant parts, we preserve maximum bioactivity. When you combine these potent ingredients with our high-quality nutritional solutions, the synergistic effects can really improve the animal resilience,” said Anna Hesby Nessa, Global Product Manager, Warm Water Species Health at Skretting, in an interview with Aquafeed.com.
Nutreco Exploration develops PhytoComplexes exclusively for use in Skretting feeds, ensuring tailored solutions for specific customer needs. “Having in-house expertise in plant research, botany, agronomy, and plant breeding makes us unique in the feed industry and guarantees consistent PhytoComplex quality — something we haven’t seen elsewhere,” added Hesby Nessa.
A first on the market
The new diet incorporates various plant species, but Skretting emphasizes that it’s not just about the species themselves. “Extensive R&D has gone into identifying the right plants, varieties, plant parts, optimal ratios, and inclusion levels to deliver and enhance synergistic effects in a consistent way. The combination of plants, their natural active compounds, and other proven health-promoting ingredients creates benefits greater than the sum of their individual effects,” explained Gordon Ritchie, Global Product Manager, Salmon Health at Skretting.
Research on both Necto and its active ingredients includes in vitro testing on multiple cell lines and microbes, using both individual and combined compounds, as well as in vivo challenge trials with Necto against a range of relevant microbes.
“We’ve seen that these synergistic effects boost the overall effectiveness and consistency of Necto, improving performance, health, and welfare outcomes. This ensures that the beneficial interactions are fully realized, providing more consistent results than traditional plant extracts or purified ingredients,” Ritchie said.
Necto will first be introduced in the Mediterranean region, with future expansion planned for other markets and species such as trout, barramundi, and salmon. “Necto isn’t species-specific; its use is based on the health challenges faced by farmed fish. It should be integrated into a comprehensive health and welfare management plan, guided by our expert local representatives,” said Hesby Nessa.
Looking ahead
Next, Skretting plans to incorporate PhytoComplexes into shrimp feeds to address specific challenges. The company also sees broad future potential for the PhytoComplex development pipeline.
“Skretting’s research scientists are working closely with Nutreco Exploration to identify key focus areas for future solutions,” Ritchie said. “Health and welfare are top priorities, but the mechanisms of action could also improve feed efficiency and other physiological processes in fish and shrimp.”
“We expect to see some truly groundbreaking innovations in fish and shrimp nutrition emerge from this work,” Ritchie concluded.
