Poultry meal is emerging as a valuable ingredient in aquafeed formulations, offering a circular protein and mineral source that supports the growth and development of farmed fish. Rich in essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, poultry meal is highly palatable and plays a crucial role in maintaining fish health and productivity.
Poultry meal is a high-protein ingredient packed with key amino acids, fatty acids, and micronutrients, all of which are necessary for building muscle, supporting metabolic functions, and enhancing the immune system of farmed fish. The high palatability of poultry meal ensures that fish accept it easily in their diets, further boosting feed efficiency.
As a by-product of the chicken processing industry, poultry meal is particularly valuable as it makes use of leftovers that might otherwise be removed from the food system. These by-products are processed into a concentrated powder, which is then included in aquafeed formulations.
Circular & restorative
One of the most significant advantages of poultry meal is its role in the circular economy. As a by-product of the meat industry, it helps reduce waste and allows for more efficient use of resources. By substituting primary ingredients that compete with food production — such as crops from arable land or whole fish marine ingredients — poultry meal provides a more sustainable alternative. This circular approach helps lower the demand for primary animal proteins and reduces the environmental pressures associated with traditional food production.
Low Carbon Footprint
Poultry meal is considered a low-carbon footprint raw material, contributing to improving the overall impact of aquaculture. The carbon intensity of poultry meal may vary slightly depending on factors such as the composition of the chicken feed and the efficiency of poultry production practices. However, in comparison to other protein sources, poultry meal is a relatively environmentally friendly option. Its circularity, which makes use of agricultural and food processing by-products, helps minimize the overall environmental impact of aquafeed.
Reducing Forage Fish Dependency Ratio (FFDR)
One of the major benefits of incorporating poultry meal into aquafeed is its ability to reduce the FFDR. By substituting for fish meal, poultry meal helps decrease the need for marine ingredients in fish feed, contributing to more sustainable feed formulations. This reduction in reliance on fish meal aligns with the broader goal of making aquaculture more sustainable and less dependent on primary marine proteins.
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Sourcing raw materials for aquaculture has a significant impact on the environment, particularly when it comes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The extraction, processing, and transportation of these materials contribute substantially to emissions. However, better sourcing practices can help reduce these emissions, and a climate-friendly approach is key to ensuring sustainable aquaculture production.
The global aquafeed industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past two decades, shifting from marine-based ingredients to plant-based raw materials. This transition has linked aquafeed production more closely with the environmental and social impacts of agriculture. Sustainable raw material sourcing is critical, given that aquafeed production accounts for up to 80% of the scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions in salmon farming.
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BioMar seeks to decouple feed supply chains from directly competing with food for human consumption.
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