Importance of Quality Ingredients in Aquafeed
Ingredients in aquafeed directly influence the growth, health, and quality of aquatic animals, so their importance cannot be overstated.
- Nutritional Requirements – Aquatic animals have specific nutritional needs depending on their species, life stage, and environmental conditions. Selected ingredients in aquafeed must provide essential nutrients such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and minerals in the correct proportions to support growth, reproduction, and overall health.
- Protein Quality – Protein is a crucial component of aquafeed, particularly for carnivorous species like salmon and shrimp. High-quality protein sources provide essential amino acids necessary for muscle development, immune function, and metabolic processes.
- Lipid Sources – Lipids are essential for energy supply, cell membrane structure, and hormone production in aquatic animals. Including quality lipid sources ensures proper growth, lipid metabolism, and overall health in fish and crustaceans.
- Digestibility – Aquafeed should be highly digestible to maximise nutrient absorption and minimise waste production.