AN UPDATE ON THE ADVANCEMENT OF A NOVEL SINGLE CELL PROTEIN FOR ALTERNATIVE FEEDS IN AQUACULTURE

To meet the expanding needs of a growing global population, innovative technologies that can lead to production efficiencies, reduce stresses to wild fisheries and increase overall animal welfare are in high demand. As well documented, aquaculture is the fastest growing animal protein sector worldwide. In part, productivity in aquaculture may continue to enjoy the current rate of growth only if environmentally & economically sustainable production technologies can be developed to enable profitable operations.

Feed represents a significant portion of the operating expense on a farm and a principal component of aquafeeds is fishmeal. The demand on fishmeal will continue as the industry grows, despite wild fisheries for the reduction to fish meal not able to support additional demand. Tightening supplies of feeder species for fish meal is failing to keep up with the industry's expansion as demonstrated by the 4-fold price increase over the last 10 years and quota limitations in many jurisdictions.

In this presentation, we will provide an update to last year's presentation where we described the efficacy of our proprietary single cell protein (SCP) as a suitable protein alternative for the first time. Specially formulated diets using advanced biotechnology were developed seeking to optimize growth, feed conversion and nutrition for important ornamental and commercial species. The outcomes of this applied research effort are consistent with the goals of the National Strategic 5-year Plan for Federal Aquaculture Research as outlined by the White House and represent an economically viable solution as the industry continues to grow.