Biomin has published a new white paper on how feed additives support the aquaculture industry in the face of shifting consumer trends, market competition, regulation and environmental factors.
The study explores key industry trends that will accompany significant growth, as aquaculture is projected to account for nearly two-thirds of global seafood consumption by 2030.
“Fish and seafood are in prime position in terms of the battle for affordable meat protein,” noted Prof David Hughes of Imperial College London, in his remarks at the 2016 World Nutrition Forum. “Farmed fish such as tilapia and pangasius are highly efficient in converting fish feed into fish meat,” he said.
However, efficient production alone does not guarantee market success, as the recent decision by retailers in France, Spain, Belgium and Italy to stop selling pangasius from Vietnam shows.
“In the white paper we explore a similar scenario in 2013-14 when the pangasius market encountered a similar rough patch,” stated Rui Gonçalves, Scientist at Biomin and author of the paper. “These events serve as a reminder that sustainable production methods are increasingly becoming a basic requirement for exporters,” he added.
The sustainability trend is likely to continue. “By 2020, the overall quantity of fishmeal used in aquafeeds is projected to fall to levels last seen two decades ago. The number of sustainable certifications issued for aquaculture has risen from basically zero in 2004 to more than 1100 last year. At the same time, the use of chemicals and medicines has come under greater scrutiny from consumers, particularly for export to Western markets,” explained Mr Gonçalves.
Feed additives are a tool in sustainable aquaculture production that can be used to make aquaculture production more efficient, reduce the need for medicated treatments and reduce waste discharges while improving fillet quality,\" noted Mr Gonçalves.
Biomin has been at the forefront of research on the impacts of mycotoxins in aquaculture species in recent years.
“At Biomin, our efforts to support the aquaculture industry run the full gamut of value creation, starting with pure research and carrying on through innovative product development, on-site customer support, rapid customer service and education,” explained Edward Manchester, Global Head of Aquaculture at Biomin. “We partner with clients across the globe in order to achieve genuine improvements in sustainability and profitability,” he added.
The new white paper “Feed Additives for Profitable, Sustainable Aquaculture” can be downloaded in the Members section of Aquafeed (free to join).
