Soy Products and the Aquaculture Market

A review published in Feedstuffs concluded that soybean meal has become the focus of protein substitution in feeds for nearly every species of fish, and, as a result, the use of soy protein is projected to increase significantly. Data were provided that aquaculture growth in several Asian countries is in double digits, with the freshwater aquaculture industry in China increasing nearly 20 percent per year. The author provides several references that demonstrate the value of soy protein in meeting the essential amino acid requirements of fish at a lower cost compared to the more expensive marine-animal meals.

The author also discusses some of the research underway to improve soybean meal through advances in feed processing and in genetically improving the soybean. High-lysine, high-methionine, and improved phosphorus availability meals will further improve the competitiveness of soybean meal in fish feeds. Changes in feed processing will help reduce the negative effects of anti-nutritional factors often found in oilseed meals. Research is also underway to develop attractants that can improve the palatability of soybean meal in fish feeds. Aquaculture research is continuing to improve supplemental feeds and expand the use opportunities for soybean meal. Future growth in commercial fish farming means a growing market for soybean meal.

Cremer, Michael C. 1999. Soy products hold much promise in aquaculture market. Feedstuffs. November 29, p9-11