Skretting developed a new feed formulation concept, AmiNova, that allows even more precise nutrition, resulting in better utilization, higher efficiency, and lower nutrient release to the environment.

Proteins are essential for fish nutrition. Individual proteins are made of a unique balance of amino acids, each providing a specific function in fish nutrition. Traditionally, aquaculture feeds have been formulated based on crude protein and, subsequently, on digestible protein. With AmiNova, Skretting is introducing a new way of formulating, based on an ideal digestible amino acid profile. By evaluating the total amino acid level that is effectively ingested by the fish and removing the unnecessary excess, the nutritional needs of fish are met with increased precision and efficiency.

“R&D results have shown that, with AmiNova, fish are able to retain nutrients in a more efficient way, while maintaining performance. Our trials with salmon and trout have shown a significant reduction in nitrogen discharge into the farm environment,” said Ramón Fontanillas, principal researcher Shrimp and Warm Water Species Nutrition, Skretting Aquaculture Innovation.

It took Skretting three years to develop AmiNova. “At Skretting, we have a long history of groundbreaking innovation. Concepts like MicroBalance, N3 and FLX allowed us to reduce the dependency on fish oil and fishmeal in our feed formulations. We have also launched Infinity, a salmon feed completely free of marine raw materials. Once ingredient flexibility was achieved, it was natural to focus on precision nutrition to reduce emissions. Therefore, AmiNova represents the next natural step in this journey. We are very excited to introduce it to our customers and continue supporting sustainable aquaculture practices,” said Alex Obach, innovation director at Skretting.

The first AmiNova-formulated feed will be available in the Chilean salmonid market in Q3 2024, with more species and countries to follow in 2025.