A rising global population and increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with fish and cultured seafood have fuelled the growth of the aquaculture industry in the past two decades. According to the United Nations-Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the total fisheries and aquaculture production will reach 205 million tonnes by 2032, with aquaculture contributing 111 million tonnes.

 

As consumer trends toward healthy eating have boosted seafood as the prime protein source, the safety of producing farmed fish has become a significant concern. While ocean-sourced fish are generally considered safe due to their natural habitat, products from aquaculture can sometimes present food safety issues related to the use of antibiotics and other chemicals. Farmers use antibiotics to treat and prevent diseases in aquatic animals. However, its misuse or overuse can lead to bacterial or microbial resistance, posing health threats to animals and eventually, to humans.

 

Fortunately, companies like Angel Yeast (p.8-9) were able to develop natural products to replace antibiotics, such as yeast cell walls (YCW). Traditionally, YCW are added to animal feed due to their protein content, which ranges from 20% to 30%. Due to the growing evidence of its health benefits for animals, Angel Yeast is incorporating YCW into nearly all of its products as natural antibiotic replacers.

 

YCW are natural feed additives that possess health-improving properties, including mannan oligosaccharides (MOS), β-glucan, glycoproteins, and chitin. Studies indicate that YCW effectively function as immunostimulants that enhance the ability of the animal’s immune system to combat infections and diseases. Other noteworthy functions of YCW include promoting gut health, better growth rates, producing stress-tolerant aquatic animals, and improving water quality. As such, integrating YCW in aquaculture can reduce the need for antibiotics or medications, leading to decreased mortality rates, higher yields, and improved overall farm productivity.

 

The aquaculture sector is set to play an increasingly important role in meeting the growing global food demand. By adopting innovative alternatives like YCW, the industry can enhance its productivity while also promoting sustainability. This approach not only benefits the aquaculture sector but also ensures a healthier future for consumers.

 

The full article is published on the May 2025 issue of LIVESTOCK & FEED Business. To read the full report, please email to inquiry@efeedlink.com to request for a complimentary copy of the magazine, indicating your name, mailing address and title of the report.