Effect of Anpario’s Salgard Liquid on tilapia growth performance

A commercial study was conducted with a commercial tilapia farm in Mexico in which Anpario's Salgard Liquid was included in the tilapia feed.

Salgard Liquid is comprised of formic acid (EU 1k236), a registered feed hygiene enhancer, and propionic acid (E280), a registered feed preservative, buffered onto a liquid carrier system. When included in feed or water, Salgard Liquid helps to maintain a healthy gut microbiome and acts as a bacterial decontaminating agent to improve feed and water hygiene.
 

Image credit: Bytemarks on Flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

The study compared growth performance between a negative control group and a Salgard Liquid treatment group (Salgard Liquid at 1L per tonne of feed over a 25 week period). Both groups were fed at the same time points, water quality was measured throughout the study, starting weights were the same at 1.1g per fish, and the initial stocking density was the same at 5,085 fish per group.

Fish were stocked one week before the start of the study to allow for acclimatisation. Feed intake, growth rate and mortality were measured and the Specific Growth Rate (SGR) and Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) were calculated.
 

The addition of Salgard Liquid to tilapia feed resulted in:

• A 13 percent improvement in final fish weight (Fig. 1).
• A 15 percent improvement in total pond biomass weight (Fig. 1)
• An improved SGR and FCR (Fig. 2)
• A significantly improved survivability throughout the study (Fig. 3) (Relative risk 1.02, p<0.0001).
• A 15.57 percent increase in profits for the farm and a final return on investment (ROI) of 13.6:1 (US $0.25 per fish).

Visit the Anpario website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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World Aquaculture 2020 postponed, Asian Pacific Aquaculture 2021 cancelled

Due to the ongoing challenges and unknown factors brought about by Covid-19, the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) have made the decision to further postpone World Aquaculture 2020 (WA2020), and cancel Asian Pacific Aquaculture 2021 (APA21).
 

World Aquaculture 2020: Postponement of Event Dates
World Aquaculture Society in partnership with Singapore Food Agency successfully conducted the WA2020 webinar based on the theme 'Next Generation Aquaculture, Innovation and Sustainability will Feed the World,' from 14 to 16, December 2020.

10 key speakers and 8 panellists had presented their topics in the webinar. Questions and answers from the participants also were discussed. Apart from gaining more knowledge and participants were also able to interact with the speakers.

The video recording of the webinar is now available on the WAS website, HERE. Take this opportunity to view the presentations from this webinar which benefitted many participants. Faced by the COVID-19 pandemic and its various effects around the world.

WA2020 has been monitoring the advice from the Singapore government and Singapore tourism board, and after careful consideration, have decided to postpone the event which was originally scheduled for June to December 5-8, 2021 at the Singapore EXPO Convention and Exhibition Centre. Registration is now available through the WAS website.

Asian Pacific Aquaculture 2021 cancelled
In view of the current Covid-19 outbreak and following the local regulations and advisories from Indonesia APA21 Steering Committee, Asian Pacific Aquaculture (APA21) which is organised by the World Aquaculture Society – Asian Pacific Chapter and hosted by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) in Surabaya, Indonesia originally planned from September 7-10, 2021 will be cancelled.

Since the Covid-19 situation is still unclear, the organisers are unable to confirm new dates for APA21. They will continue to monitor the situation and new dates shall be announced as soon as pandemic conditions permit.

For more information visit the World Aquaculture Society website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Full programme of the 5th Annual Aquafeed Extrusion conference announced

The 5th Annual Aqua Feed Extrusion Conference co-organized by VIV, International Aquafeed and Fish Farming Technology magazine and Dr Mian Riaz of Texas A&M University is once again taking place on 10-11 March, 2021. The full programme has now been released.
 

Day 1

First day of the 5th Annual Aquafeed Extrusion conference will focus on selection of an appropriate extruder for aqua feed, modern aquatic plant design, preparation of raw material for aqua feed using pulverizer, making floating and sinking feed using twin screw extrusion technology and optimization of aqua feed quality. 

Selection of an Extruder
As we know, in today's market, several companies offer all kind of extruders for making aqua feed, which can make the process of selecting an appropriate extruder very confusing for the consumer. There are too many choices in the market for buying an extruder.

Modern aquatic plant design
Extrusion projects are not an easy task to undertake. Whether you are building a new factory or expanding your operation, proper planning is key to the success of a completed project.

Preparation of the raw Material
First step in making aqua feed is to prepare your raw material using proper grinder and pulverizer for extrusion and that can be very costly, if not careful, you can spend lot of energy and efforts and then still ended up with poor quality pellets.

Making Floating and Sinking Feed with Twin Screw Extruder
Currently we have choices to use single or twin-screw extruder to make aquafeed, and twin-screw extrusion provide more flexibility and choice to make different sizes of pellet and it allows to make floating or sinking feed as well.

Optimization of Aquafeed Quality
Once feed is made; we need to make sure its quality. Final aqua feed and majority of raw materials used for their production, due to their substantial level of total fat and high ration of polyunsaturated fatty acids are very sensitive to oxidation process. Oxidation of feeds can negatively impact economy of feed producers, since primarily will impact feed quality with consequent possible increase of customers complain and/or feed re-call. Moreover, oxidation can have a direct effect on fish performances and state of health. Thus, a good knowledge of oxidation process and way to prevent/control via the application of a specific antioxidant program, remain a must for producing high feed quality.

Day 2

The second day of the conference will focus on Twin screw extrusion of aqua feed, Evolution of extrusion technology, Common Aquafeed drying challenges, Sustainable and nutritious fish feed pellets with twin screw and Proposition for enzymes in extruded feed.

Twin Screw Extrusion of Aqua Feed
As the recent changes in raw material demand and availability, the extrusion of 'new' raw materials for dry fish feed and pet food products has challenged the traditional way of producing quality products from premium raw materials. To accommodate this challenge the development and use of twin-screw technology has become more intense and, in some region, market like in Asia, starting to become the most preferred technology in especially fish feed extrusion.

Evolution of Extrusion Technology
Extrusion processing has been used for many years for products that countless people use daily.  Family pets, livestock, and aquaculture are all examples of who/what extrusion proves to be a valuable and flexible processing aid.  From producing the most basic of feeds to complex, high quality formulations, aquatic feeds have evolved through the years, therefore it is necessary to expect the same for extrusion technology.

Common Aquafeed Drying Challenge
Every Aquafeed manufacturer faces operational challenges from time to time when producing high quality feed at maximum throughput and energy efficiency. Understanding the underlying cause of the problems faced during operation is a critical step in defining practical solutions to ensure reliable, high quality, efficient aquafeed production.

Sustainable and Nutritious Fish Feed Pellets with Twin Screw
Since protein-containing raw materials play an important role in achieving the most efficient growth possible, fish meal as a source of protein is a frequently used in the formulation to produce fish feed. However, this has led to an additional demand for fish resulting in a significant increase on the price of fishmeal. Consequently, efforts are being made to find alternative sources of protein to replace fishmeal, at least partially. A promising and more sustainable approach is the usage of insects as an alternative to fishmeal, since they can also be rich in protein and already serve as food for many fish in nature.

Proposition for Enzymes in Extruded Feed
The volatility in supply, price and quality of common protein sources used in aquafeed has prompted the use of dietary enzymes including protease by nutritionists and formulators worldwide. However, poor stability of any enzymes during the harsh manufacturing process of extruded aquafeed may have hindered their use and prompted several solutions such as coated enzymes or liquid enzymes for post-pelleting application. Here, we shall discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various such solutions proposed for dietary protease by reviewing peer-reviewed published literatures available in the scientific domains.

For more information and to register visit the 5th Annual Aqua Feed Extrusion Conference website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Orkney shellfish hatchery sees first lobster hatchings

Orkney Shellfish Hatchery, which forms part of the Cadman Capital Group's Aquaculture portfolio, has announces the successful hatching of its first run of European clawed lobsters for 2021, a progression that has been achieved almost three months earlier than initially expected.

The hatchery, which is located on the pristine waters of Orkney, Scotland, announced its plans to trial the on-land production of the species in late September of last year, with the expectation that its pilot run would complete around May 2021.

 

Image credit: Orkney Shellfish Hatchery

Commenting on the accelerated rate at which the trial has progressed, Dr Nik Sachlikidis, Managing Director of the Cadman Capital Group's Aquaculture portfolio, says, 'Operations at Orkney Shellfish Hatchery continue to amaze us, consistently progressing at a far faster rate than anticipated. Having our lobster broodstock hatch larvae so early in the season allows the hatchery to culture juvenile lobsters from January through to November, an extension of four months when compared to the wild hatching season, which runs from March to September. This progression means that Orkney Shellfish Hatchery can now consistently produce far greater lobster numbers annually, substantially reducing capital overheads for the hatchery operation and providing much-needed clawed lobster product to restoration projects across Europe.'

The hatchery is utilising products from its sister company, Ocean On Land Technology, throughout the trial, including the ground-breaking Hatchery-in-a-Box concept, a containerised lobster hatchery system that can house and culture lobster from broodstock through to post-larvae.

More than just a commercial shellfish production facility, Orkney Shellfish Hatchery is committed to the efficient and sustainable practise of cultivating shellfish on land, in order to replenish the UK's seafood stocks, as well as support the global aquaculture industry.

European clawed lobster is set to be the second species the hatchery will be producing on land in order to support restoration projects across Europe, as it continues to successfully produce and provide runs of premium native oyster spat.

Visit the Orkney Shellfish Hatchery website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Anpario’s Orego-stim plus AS supports optimal shrimp health and performance

A commercial study was conducted at a large shrimp farm in Mexico to assess the suitability of Orego-Stim Plus AS in supporting shrimp health and performance.

Orego-Stim Plus AS is a high quality eubiotic comprised of 100 percent natural oregano essential oil and saponins.
 

Image credit: Anpario

The study was conducted over a 119-day period. Shrimp (L. vannmei) were fed Orego-Stim Plus AS (OS+) at 6kg/tonne for the first 70 days. After which, data on shrimp growth performance was collected for an additional 49 days.

Shrimp from two ponds were fed a standard diet supplemented with OS+, whereas shrimp from two other ponds were fed the standard diet with no additives (control). Shrimp were not specifically challenged and observed mortality occurred under standard production conditions. Shrimp weight, total pond biomass, feed efficiency and survivability were assessed and results were averaged.

The addition of Orego-Stim Plus AS to shrimp feed resulted in:

• A 12.2% improvement in final shrimp weight.
• A 43.2% improvement in total pond biomass weight (Fig. 1).
• A 26.5% improvement in feed efficiency (Fig. 2).
• A 25% increase in survivability (Fig. 3).
• No apparent symptoms associated with Early Mortality Syndrome (EMS) or Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND)
• A 28.1% reduction in production costs compared to the control.

The study demonstrates that Orego-Stim Plus AS is a cost-effective, natural solution to help maintain and support optimal shrimp health and performance whilst maximising profitability.

Visit the Anpario website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Framo set to own 50 percent of aquaculture project Stadion Basin

Pump manufacturer, Framo, has invested to become joint partner with fish farming company Lingalaks in the company StadionLaks. 

The two companies aim to collaborate on the development of the Stadion Basin innovation project, a closed, floating production system for salmon, scheduled for completion in 2023. 

The Stadion Basin project image source

“The objective with the Stadion Basin is to eliminate problems with salmon lice, accidental release and organic waste, and to provide good growing conditions for salmon. We are delighted that Framo has decided to invest in this important project,” confirms Erlend Haugarvoll, Chairman of the Board for Lingalaks and StadionLaks, the company behind the Stadion Basin project. 

 

A closed, floating production basin 

Framo and Lingalaks have now signed an agreement for joint ownership (50/50) of the project, which has been awarded development licences equivalent to 1,849 tonnes of biomass. The basin is designed as a floating, closed, through-flow production unit for salmon farming measuring 39 x 117 metres. Seen from above the basin looks like a sports stadium – hence the name (stadion is the Norwegian word for stadium).

 

“We decided to take part in this project so that we can develop and test new pump technology in the field. Our expertise lies in moving vast volumes of liquids in a controlled manner. Our goal is to be the preferred supplier of pump systems for aquaculture worldwide,” explains Oddbjørn Jacobsen, Director of Framo Innovation.

 

Innovation project with the capacity to solve major challenges 

The objective with the project is to reduce or completely eliminate problems with salmon lice, accidental release, disease and algae, and to find improved methods of handling feed residue and waste products. The plan is to collect sludge and organic waste, such as feed residue and faeces from the fish, and to exploit this as a resource.

 

“Our goal at Lingalaks is to identify solutions that provide optimal fish health and minimise the impact on our surroundings. We have been working on the Stadion Basin for four years now, and are looking forward to commissioning the system in 2023. 

If it all turns out as well as expected, it could provide major positive gains in relation to fish health, seafood production in the fjords and for the entire aquaculture industry,” says Erlend Haugarvoll, Chairman of the Board of Lingalaks and StadionLaks.

 

The plan is to produce the basin in Norway. The technology behind the concept will ensure that all value creation and jobs will remain in Norway, and that the salmon will remain in the sea in Norway rather than being moved to land-based facilities abroad.

World-leading pump technology

Framo will be responsible for the entire through-flow system. This includes taking water from various depths, circulation in the volume of water in the fish farm, removal of sludge and control systems.

 

“Closed and semi-closed plants require major pumps to replace the water and create ideal currents. This is where Framo are the experts. Given that our owners, Alfa Laval, are also world leaders within sludge and water treatment, there is little doubt that this will provide for a productive partnership,” says Martijn Bergink, CEO of Framo AS.

For more information, visit the Stadion Laks website HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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European Algae Industry Summit: Updated agenda released

The organisers of the European Algae Industry Summit are pleased to release their updated agenda, which now contains further details of each presentation including title and bullet points highlighting the main themes of each speaker.

Image source: wplgroup.com/aci

Taking place on 21st & 22nd April 2021 in Reykjavik, Iceland, the European Algae Industry Summit will once again bring together key players within the algae industry including leaders from food, feed, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics across the globe to gain a deeper understanding of recent industry developments and economically viable applications and benefit from excellent networking opportunities.

This edition will focus on improving production methods, both from an efficiency and a sustainable perspective, with case studies from key players of each segment bringing forward their experience.

The conference will also take an in-depth look into the most recently developed technologies, the potential of algae as a biomaterials, as well as the way to get algae to the next level, on a standards, awareness and marketing levels. The various conference topics will be discussed through case studies sessions and interactive panel discussions, to ensure a positive exchange with all industry actors involved.

The participants will also have the chance to discuss how to keep the industry thriving as a whole during the numerous Q&As, and the extended networking breaks.

Visit the event website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Hybrid powered feed barge generates ‘fantastic’ results

In what is believed to be a first in Scottish salmon farming, Scottish Sea Farms is piloting a bespoke hybrid power system aboard one of its feed barges, dramatically reducing fuel consumption, carbon emissions and operating costs.

The initiative, at the company's Spelve farm on Mull, is part of Scottish Sea Farms' drive to make its activities more sustainable and contribute to the Scottish Government's ambition to be net zero by 2045.
 

Loch Spelve farm where the trial is taking place
Image credit: Scottish Sea Farms 

The results, after just four months, have been 'fantastic', achieving cost savings as well as environmental benefits, according to Spelve Farm Manager Alan Tangny.

'We used to be filling our diesel tank at least once a week and now we're probably getting four times longer between fills,' says Mr Tangny.

Designed, built and monitored by Aqua Power Technologies, the hybrid concept has been shown to offset 32,408kg in carbon since the pilot began in September. That is comparable to the weight of a standard fuel tanker of 32,000 litres.

Contained within a two metre long cabinet, the hybrid system includes 24 batteries and a control panel. It works alongside the conventional diesel generator, intelligently monitoring the power demand and seamlessly switching between generator power and battery power.

At times of greater demand, during feeding for example, power is handed back to the diesel generator which simultaneously charges the hybrid's batteries.

During lower demand, the hybrid takes over, remaining on 24/7 to power comparatively low loads such as environmental logging systems and lights.

'The technology has been in existence for 20 years and is typically used in cars, underground trains and off-grid homes,' says Aqua Power founder Sam Etherington.

But it had not been deployed on a salmon farm until he approached Scottish Sea Farms with his novel adaptation for the sector.

After Spelve was identified as a suitable site for the trial, Mr Etherington's team installed monitoring equipment for two weeks to gather data on power profiles and trends at the farm.

The information was then analysed to understand the carbon and diesel offsets achievable by integrating a hybrid, before a bespoke specification was proposed for Spelve.

'The hybrid system can be remotely configured farm by farm, according to power needs, to yield the highest savings,' says Mr Etherington. 'At Spelve, it's currently configured to take over with anything less than 10kW, which covers everything except the feed blowers.

'The peak feeding times are between 10.30am and 2.30pm so all those other hours before and after, the hybrid maintains power to the farm, enabling savings to be made.'

The total annual carbon offset is estimated at 79,400kg, and the annual net saving in diesel costs, based on today's price, is calculated at around £18,000.

Aqua Power Technologies has an online data platform, AquaStat Internet of Things (IoT), that allows farmers to log on and track real time information, including the amount of carbon and diesel offset and the return on investment.

'Spelve is also trialling LED lights on its pens in place of traditional metal halide lamps, there are much lighter, brighter and use less power,' says Mr Tangny.

'These are only 100W lights yet they produce more luminance than the 400W metal halide lights. They require a lot less power so the diesel saving has been phenomenal, especially combined with the hybrid as well.

'We would have had the generator running 24 hours a day to power the lights but these LEDs run off the battery pack, no problem.

'We have observed no difference in fish behaviour, growth or maturation using LED lights instead of metal halide lamps. We can still maintain high levels of fish welfare whilst reducing our carbon footprint and saving money at the same time.'

'The real-time monitoring platform has offered an insight into the farm's power use profile and given the company scope to manage that even better,' says Scottish Sea Farms Environment Manager Sheena Gallie.

'This level of monitoring of our power use is something we wouldn't have had otherwise. Aside from the direct benefits, there are a lot of other things we can learn.

'Off the back of the success of the Spelve system, we will be looking to work with Aqua Power Technologies to identify other farms where energy use profiles would indicate its suitability. There is a clear opportunity for the company to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and, in doing so, significantly reduce carbon emissions.'

Visit the Scottish Sea Farms website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Register now for the Online Milling School's session on quality assurance and quality control

The Online Milling School (OMS) winter course's 9th session on quality assurance and quality control will be taking place Wednesday February 24 at 2pm Bangkok time (GMT+7). This session will look into the standards for quality assurance and quality control procedures that assure consistent product quality and safety, and much more.

Standards for quality assurance and quality control procedures that assure consistent product quality and safety will be reviewed, this includes written procedures, records, and audits. The importance and availability of testing equipment and lab procedures that support consistent delivery of quality feeds will be highlighted; and the requirements for traceability, product recall procedures and perhaps blockchain outlined.
 

Agenda
- requirements and sampling
- lab testing and lab equipment
- traceability
- the important of moisture control and measurement throughout the milling process
 

Speakers

Neal Cass
After gaining his degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Southampton in England, Neal spent 10 years developing and commissioning control systems for a major international food process system manufacturer.
In 2007 he started working for Hydronix as a Customer Service and Software Development Engineer before becoming Sales Manager in 2011.

Ryan Alan S. Celis
A mechanical engineer by training Ryan started with San Miguel Philippines in 1988 and undertook various positions, including head of Maintenance, Plant Engineer and latterly Manufacturing Manager for the company's feed milling operations based in Manila.
He set up his own engineering and consultancy company in 1998 specialising in project engineering, feed mill construction and fabrication and project management.
He currently runs his own feedmill in southern Philippines contract manufacturing for various feed companies.

Online Milling School's Winter Course 2020-21
Sessions will run every Wednesday (excluding public holidays) through to mid-March 2021. It is broadcast at 2pm Bangkok Time (GMT+7) and will comprise both live and recorded presentations plus host a dynamic Q&A session each week!

Each Session will be re-broadcast again on Thursday each week at 10:00 Chicago Time to reach the industry in North, Central and South America.

The 'Feed Milling Production Management' Certificate
Our Certificate validates your attendance and demonstrates to your company, co-workers and future employers that you have a greater understanding and knowledge of the complete feed milling process.

Following the completion of the first Course in October 2020, on average 45 percent of students completed all 12 Session and obtained the much valued OMS Certificate of Attainment.

The Winter 2020-21 Course in detail
There are 12 individual 2-hour Sessions that make up The Feed Milling Production Management Course. This Course has been restructured to follow the production process more closely from start-to-finish and has an additional number of presenters.

There will be an opportunity at the end of the course to catch up on any courses missed for those who have signed up for the full 12 sessions. We have invited those who have completed several of the 2020 first course to attend the courses they have missed in this the Winter Course if they wish to complete and achieve the Certificate of Attainment.

For more information and to register visit the Online Milling School website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Study finds Anpario’s Salgard Liquid supports health and performance of shrimp larvae

A commercial study was conducted at a large shrimp hatchery in Mexico over a 14-day period to assess the suitability of Salgard Liquid in supporting shrimp larvae health and performance in the absence of probiotics.
 

Image credit: Anpario

Study design
Four raceways were stocked with shrimp larvae and offered one of four diets. The four dietary groups were as follows; a control group fed a standard diet with no probiotics or additives; a group fed the standard diet supplemented with a commercially available probiotic (P1), a group fed the standard diet supplemented with a different commercially available probiotic (P2) and a group fed the standard diet supplemented with Salgard Liquid at 5 L/tonne of feed for 14 days. Shrimp larvae were not specifically challenged and observed mortality occurred under standard production conditions. Shrimp larvae weight, total raceway biomass, feed efficiency and survivability were assessed and results were averaged.

 

 

Positive results
The addition of Salgard Liquid to shrimp larvae diets for 14 days resulted in: A 59% improvement in final larvae weight compared to the control group. A 21% improvement in total raceway biomass weight compared to the control group. A 51% and 24% increase in survivability compared to P1 and P2 respectively (Figure 1). A 32%, 16% and 12% improvement in feed efficiency compared to P1, P2 and the control respectively (Figure 2). A 32%, 16%, 12% reduction in production costs compared to P1, P2 and the control respectively (Figure 3).

The study demonstrates that Salgard Liquid is a cost-effective solution to help maintain and support optimal shrimp larvae health and performance in the absence of probiotics, whilst maximising profitability.

Summary
Shrimp hatcheries commonly use probiotics in feed and water. Including Salgard Liquid in shrimp feed improved feed efficiency and survivability of shrimp larvae in the absence of probiotics. Supplementing shrimp diets with Salgard Liquid reduced production costs by up to 32% compared to commercially available probiotics and by 12% compared to the control diet. Salgard Liquid is comprised of formic and propionic acids buffered onto a liquid carrier system and supports optimal feed and water hygiene. 

For more information on Salgard Liquid and Anpario's other offerings, visit the Anpario website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Dr. Eckel launch Anta®Catch for improved protection against endotoxins

Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition launches an innovative endotoxin specialist following two years of development. Specially developed to defend against dangerous endotoxins, the latest product from the renowned experts in innovative feed additives promises maximum effectiveness and comprehensive protection.
 

Anta®Catch
Image credit: Dr. Eckel

Safety and protection for high-performing animals: Dr. Eckel's Anta®Catch
Livestock bears the brunt of endotoxin contamination: all too often, this results in hoof infections, ear or tail necrosis, liver disease and diminished performance due to an overactive immune system. To help feed producers, farmers and animals combat endotoxins, the multidisciplinary team of experts at Dr. Eckel Animal Nutrition in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, has spent two years of intensive development to produce the best available solution to endotoxins. And finally, Dr. Eckel's latest product innovation was launched on February 4. Its name: Anta®Catch. Dr. Eckel states that farmers and producers can get the threat posed by endotoxins under control with this highly effective product.

Background: Endotoxins, the silent danger
Better genes and intensive feeding have resulted in more productive livestock. However, one problem is becoming more acute: endotoxin contamination. The latest research confirms what farmers have been saying all along: endotoxin-related problems are not isolated cases and occur even on very well-managed farms. For example, 50 percent to 100 percent of piglets are affected by tail, ear or foot pad necrosis from as early as their first day of life, and as many as 90 percent of slaughtered bulls have tail necrosis due to high levels of endotoxins. But these visible symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg. Endotoxins stimulate the immune system, which costs the animal a lot of energy—energy that is no longer available for growth and performance. It is not only fattening cattle and swine that are affected: endotoxins also pose a serious threat to the welfare and health of dairy cows, poultry and aquaculture produce, and the profitability of the respective farms.

Specialist wanted
'Feedback we had been receiving from customers for some time increasingly indicated the presence of high endotoxin levels. The available options did not seem to be helping much,' explains Iris Kröger, Technical Sales Manager at Dr. Eckel. 'It was clear that we needed something new. So we decided that we would be the ones to find it.' The team of specialists at Dr. Eckel is known to overcome challenges with unusual solutions. After all, Dr. Eckel has been considered a pioneer and visionary of innovative feed additives for more than 25 years. So the family business took a brave and confident approach in this new venture and, backed by development funding by the state of Rhineland-Palatinate and the EU, developed a specialist product from scratch to be used specifically against endotoxins and to achieve the highest effectiveness possible. The Dr. Eckel development team took a two-pronged approach: the careful selection of raw materials to counteract endotoxins effectively; and the development of a unique process to activate Anta®Catch.

Anta®Catch: Double-activated and triple mode of action
The secret of Anta®Catch's success lies in this careful selection of raw materials and the production process due to which it is double-activated and has a triple mode of action. And this is how it works: first, the product is activated through the rectification of the cations on its surface, enabling Anta®Catch to immobilise endotoxins over a wide pH range, effectively catching up to 99 percent of the endotoxins; then, the micronised ingredients—i.e. substances that have a particularly small particle size—ensure optimal bioavailability. Anta®Catch's special triple mode of action kicks in simultaneously: it supports the formation of an intact intestinal barrier, contributes to the effective protection of the liver against endotoxins and thus promotes liver function. Consequently, Anta®Catch comes with the promise of strong and healthy animals, top performance and animal-friendly and profitable production.

Catch, seal, detox support
Only Anta®Catch has this double activation and triple mode of action. Anta®Catch protects poultry, ruminants, swine and fish effectively against endotoxins. This is an enormous step towards improving animal welfare and farm profitability.

Visit the Dr Eckel website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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UK Seafood Disruption Support Scheme now open

Image credit: William Murphy on flickr.com
(CC BY-SA 2.0)

Seafood exporting businesses across the UK that have been affected by the challenges of adjusting to new requirements for exporting to the EU can apply from today for financial support from the UK Government.

The UK-wide Seafood Disruption Support Scheme will provide up to £23 million (US$32 million) of financial assistance to businesses that suffered a financial loss because of delays related to the export of fresh or live fish and shellfish to the EU during January 2021. The fund will be paid retrospectively to cover losses incurred between 1-31 January 2021.

Alongside the Seafood Disruption Support Scheme, the UK Government has been offering targeted support to help exporters with new processes. This includes the Seafood Exports Working Group, meeting twice a week to troubleshoot issues raised by the industry; and a newly established Scottish Seafood Exports Task Force.

Meeting for the first time this week, the task-force will draw together government officials and industry representatives from the catching, processing and aquaculture sectors to specifically driving forward the seafood sector in Scotland.

The fishing and seafood sector is also set to benefit from significant government investment with a £100m (US$138 million) fund to help modernise fishing fleets, the fish processing industry, and rejuvenate a historic and proud industry in the UK, on top of the £32m (US$44.2 million) that will replace EU funding this year.

The Seafood Disruption Support Scheme, first announced on 19 January, has been made available in recognition of the unique circumstances currently affecting the seafood exporting sector at a time when the industry is facing lower market prices and demand due to the pandemic.

The scheme, administered by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO) on behalf of Defra, is a UK-wide fund offering financial assistance based on a proportion of losses that can be verified up to a maximum of £100,000 (US$138,000) per business.

Seafood exporting businesses across the UK can apply from today for support from this £23 million (US$32 million) scheme, reflecting the unique challenges faced by the sector, says Fisheries Minister Victoria Prentis.

"We will continue to work closely with the fisheries and seafood industry through our Seafood Exports Working Group to troubleshoot any issues that cause delays to the export of these highly perishable goods".

"While recognising that huge efforts went into preparing for the required changes as we exited the EU, there are many who have incurred losses through no fault of their own. The UK Government is, therefore, stepping up with the Seafood Disruption Support Scheme," says David Duguid, UK Government Minister for Scotland.

"I have been engaging with the industry for many months and continue to work with all sections of the seafood sector in Scotland as we move to maximise future opportunities and adapt to new rules."

A uniquely challenging period

"The Seafood Disruption Support Scheme highlights the UK Government’s commitment to Welsh exporters who are currently facing a uniquely challenging period" says Simon Hart, Secretary of State for Wales. "We want to back our fantastic Welsh businesses and I encourage all who are eligible to apply for this support".

Qualifying businesses for the Seafood Disruption Support Scheme must be registered at Companies House or have evidence that they are a sole trader, partnership or other legal entity, and must meet the following conditions: having fewer than 250 employees, an annual turnover of under £36 million (US$50 million), and less than £18m (US$25 million) on their balance sheet.

Applicants must be able to evidence the expected value of the consignment. Shipments affected by export rules that prevent the movement of goods to the EU will be outside the scope of the scheme. The call for applications closes on 28 February 2021. If successful, all payments are expected to be issued in March. 

Further eligibility conditions apply and are outlined in the full scheme guidance published on the MMO website.

The Marine Management Organisation also offers a ‘one stop shop’ for export guidance; Defra and HMRC will also be offering targeted, proactive and hands-on support to fisheries exporters to help them successfully meet the new requirements, which includes a new training package and focused workshop sessions.

To find out more, visit the scheme's website, HERE

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XpertSea appoints Katie Sokalsky to expand its fast-growing shrimp marketplace and financial products

XpertSea, a Canadian company working to transform how seafood is farmed and traded, has announced the expansion of its management team with the addition of financial industry veteran Katie Sokalsky as President and COO.

Ms Sokalsky joins XpertSea following the successful launch of its data-driven marketplace and financial services in Ecuador, with more than 10 million pounds of shrimp traded in less than 10 months, 50 percent month-over-month increase in new ponds registered on the trading platform, and 10x revenue growth from Q1 to Q4 2020.

 

Katie Sokalsky
Image credit: XpertSea

Previously the VP responsible for all new product and retail transformation at Scotiabank, one of Canada's largest banks, Ms Sokalsky will apply her experience to accelerate XpertSea's rapid growth in Latin America and support the company's expansion of its business model to Southeast Asia and India.

'Katie's experience in digital transformation, financial services and traditional markets will help XpertSea grow our marketplace into new territories and develop new offerings,' says Valerie Robitaille, XpertSea's CEO. 'With her strategic and operational skills she will be key to building on our current momentum and scaling for our next phase of growth in transforming the $30B shrimp marketplace.'

"I was taken with XpertSea's technology, the way they're using it to change the lives of farmers, and the incredible results that has produced,' says Ms Sokalsky, XpertSea's President and COO. 'I'm excited to work with Valerie and her team to build a global seafood exchange that meets the growing demand for high quality, sustainable protein while delivering positive environmental returns for our planet.'

In 2020 XpertSea launched the first data-driven marketplace that seamlessly connects shrimp farmers with a network of vetted buyers for seamless transactions, complemented by financing services that eliminate damaging delays and guarantee same day payment.

'Our marketplace allows farmers to reach new buyers, while our fast payment service unlocks cash flow critical to their continuous operations," says Robitaille, XpertSea's CEO. 'This streamlined experience in turn benefits processors and other buyers, and will improve transparency, efficiency and profitability from farm to fork.'

Ms Sokalsky is a veteran of the banking and financial services industries who led the digital transformation for Scotiabank's millions of retail customers. Previously, she was CFO and Head of Operations at Goldmoney Inc., a Toronto-based fintech that operates the world's largest 100 percent-reserved gold-based savings platform and payments network. In addition to managing strategic growth initiatives and partnerships, she scaled the company globally to 150 countries with over $2B on the trading platform, managed an acquisition, raised equity, and took the company public.

Prior to Goldmoney, Ms Sokalsky obtained extensive client experience at PwC where she specialised in banking and capital markets. She also founded ChefButler, a national food-based subscription box business. Ms Sokalsky is a designated CPA and CA, and holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree from Queen's University.

Visit the XpertSea website, HERE.

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Recovery must be based on sustainability, says EU at the FAO Committee on Fisheries

fao.org

The impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the seafood sector dominated the 34th Session of the FAO Committee on Fisheries (COFI). 

Across the world, market disruption has hit fisheries and aquaculture hard, adversely affecting the livelihoods of fishers and seafood farmers. At the same time, the pandemic has underscored the vital contribution of the sector to the global economy, to nutrition and to food security.

European Commission

In line with the European Green Deal, the EU stressed that the post-Covid recovery must be based on sustainable management of fisheries and aquaculture, as the best tool to balance the multiple challenges of fostering economic development, whilst promoting conservation, biodiversity, food security and the fight against climate change.

As the world’s largest donor of official development assistance and the principal donor to FAO, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and promoting the contribution of fisheries and aquaculture to sustainable development.

Reaffirming its "zero tolerance" approach to illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, the EU contributed directly to the decision to develop, for adoption in 2022, the FAO Guidelines on Transshipment operations that currently remain largely unregulated and insufficiently monitored and controlled. 

The EU also contributed to an agreement to progress on developing FAO Sustainable Aquaculture Guidelines in 2021 to ensure that the growth of global aquaculture necessary to meet increasing world demand for protein does not come at the expense of the environment, economic development or social conditions. 

Finally, the EU invited FAO to pursue the elaboration of draft guidance on social responsibility in fish value chains, building more explicitly upon key conventions in this domain[1]. These could be important soft international law instruments to advance EU interests on aquaculture and fisheries worldwide under the European Green Deal.

The delegations to the COFI meeting endorsed a Declaration on Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture. The declaration acknowledges the achievements of the fisheries and aquaculture sector since the establishment of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries 25 years ago, and gathers collective momentum in tackling the challenges and opportunities to secure the long-term sustainability of the sector.

For further information, visit the European Commission website, HERE

 

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Canadian seafood industry ready to lead in Blue Economy strategy consultations

 A salmon farm in the Clio Channel, British Columbia, Canada flickr.com

The Fisheries Council of Canada (FCC) and the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA) are pleased to see the launch of the federal government’s Canadian Blue Economy Strategy consultations. 

The Engagement Paper, launched today, shows nearly 90,000 jobs and Can$9 billion (US$7.07 billion) in GDP contribution for the seafood industry for Canadians - more than any other ocean-based sector. 

aquaculture.ca

The seafood sector can grow substantially in both jobs and value to help drive Covid recovery and help Canada become a global leader in the sustainable oceans economy. 

FCC and CAIA, representing Canada’s national wild and farmed seafood sectors respectively, have created a joint vision and action plan to capture the blue economy opportunity and position Canada as a global top three best producer of sustainable fish and seafood by the year 2040. 

Canada’s Blue Economy Strategy 2040 includes three sustainable growth targets and six points of action to help Canada reach its blue economy goals. 

fisheriescouncil.com

“Canadians have been building their lives around our three oceans for hundreds of years, with the seafood industry being a cornerstone of our nation’s history,” said Paul Lansbergen, President, FCC. 

“We’re ready to establish Canada’s leadership in the global blue economy, with the seafood industry leading the way.” 

The Canadian seafood industry shares the sentiment expressed in the Blue Economy Strategy engagement paper that Canada should be a leader in the global blue economy. 

With the longest coastline in the world, it only makes sense that Canada should modernise our ocean sectors in a sustainable way, consciously create more jobs in our coastal and Indigenous communities, and focus on science, technology and research to advance both the economic return and stewardship of our oceans. 

“The potential of Canada's fish and seafood industry for long-term, sustainable job-creation will be paramount for Canada's Covid-19 recovery and for Blue Economy development," said Timothy Kennedy, CAIA President & CEO. "Canada has yet to seize its seafood opportunity and this strategy development is a chance to frame and realise Canada’s outstanding Blue Economy promise.”  

As Canada shapes its blue economy strategy, the seafood industry is ready to lead with a continued commitment to sustainably capturing the potential of our oceans as we have done for hundreds of years. A rising tide lifts all boats.

For more information, read the full strategy consultation, HERE

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