March 6, 2024

University of Gothenburg study explores kelp flies and marine yeast as sustainable salmon feed

A recent study conducted by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden unveils promising insights into the utilisation of kelp flies and marine yeast as potential salmon feed, offering a sustainable solution derived from seafood industry by-products, Global Seafood Alliance reported.

Niklas Warwas, the lead researcher behind the study, emphasised the significance of transitioning towards circular food production, repurposing discarded by-products to enhance resource efficiency in the food industry amidst growing challenges of land scarcity and water pollution.

Fish feed, comprising half of the carbon footprint and production expenses in aquaculture, faces a transformative proposal outlined in Warwas' thesis, "Novel marine ingredients for aquaculture: Fish nutrition, physiology, and intestinal health." The thesis advocates for kelp fly larvae and marine yeast as viable alternatives to conventional fishmeal and soybeans, boasting high-quality proteins and omega-3 fatty acids crucial for fish growth and human consumption.

Warwas noted the nutritional value of both ingredients and their potential to bolster fish immunity, mitigating disease risks. The study underscores the prospect of circular food production, reducing environmental impact, and climate repercussions. Marine yeast, cultivated from nutrient-rich brine by-products of herring processing, and kelp flies, fed on residual products from algae cultivation, present feasible raw materials for fish feed production.

Moreover, the minimal processing requirements for marine yeast and fly larvae translate to reduced energy consumption in feed manufacturing processes, further enhancing sustainability.

Warwas stressed the adaptability of these ingredients to various organic materials, emphasizing the importance of localised circular systems integrating feed production with processing and fish farming facilities. This strategy minimises transportation needs and enhances the competitiveness of alternative feed ingredients.

-      Global Seafood Alliance