Kames Fish Farming Ltd. and Salmones Aysén join Cargill’s SeaFurther™ Sustainability initiative

Fish farmers are focused on their role in ocean stewardship and addressing the sustainability of food systems, especially with climate change. Trout farmers, Kames Fish Farming Ltd. in Scotland, and salmon farmers, Salmones Aysén in Chile, have long been dedicated to caring for the waters where they raise their high-quality fish. Now, they are leading the way to improve their operations further to meet sustainability goals by joining Cargill's SeaFurther Sustainability initiative.

Image credit: prilfish on Flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

The three key areas of SeaFurther are:

• Transforming raw materials: Working with customers and suppliers to identify and grow planet-friendly ingredients and find new ways to reuse by-products.
• Innovating and enhancing: Focusing on ways to increase fish efficiency, getting the most out of production while using fewer resources and reducing the impact on the ocean.
• Safeguarding animal health: Developing fish nutrition that promotes and enhances the health and welfare of farmed fish and working with our customers to make sure fish in their care are managed to the highest standards.

''In order to develop sustainably, aquaculture has to minimise the carbon emissions it creates. With SeaFurther we support salmon farmers in charting a path to net-zero emissions, helping them to meet science-based targets that have been set by the industry,'' says Helene Ziv-Douki, president of Cargill's aqua nutrition business. ''It all starts with understanding the goals of our customers and analysing their current situation; then based on the data that we collect on their farms, Cargill is able to precisely identify hotspots in the value chain where it will be possible to intervene to reduce emissions. In order to develop the three key pillars of SeaFurther, our feed business will work on: suppliers development, feed material/supply, feed efficiency/management. By helping customers catching opportunities in these areas, as well as supporting on animal health and welfare, Cargill can play a pivotal role for the success of its partners and contribute to reduce the carbon footprint of the industry. Launched in salmon and trout, SeaFurther can also be applied to other species, where the impact will be even greater. The more our expertise grows between now and 2030, the more reductions we will be able to bring.'

The SeaFurther initiative combines Cargill's leading nutritional knowledge with our supply chain expertise to create opportunities for our customers to implement significant reductions in carbon emissions in line with science-based targets. Cargill has built a system of data on their raw material suppliers and their customers, from which they can identify and implement options to reduce carbon emissions from raw material origin to fish at harvest for each customer.

This creates a credible reduction pathway for each customer and then opens the opportunity to offset remaining emissions to create a net-zero fish, which has a strong market appeal. Managing down carbon emissions in this way will support sustainable aquaculture development as called for by the Blue Food Assessment.

Dave Robb, program lead for Cargill's SeaFurther Sustainability initiative says, 'SeaFurther has created vertical collaborations with our suppliers and customers and horizontal collaborations within Cargill. Aligning on a common carbon reduction goal makes the message simple, but SeaFurther supports much more than just the carbon goal for sustainable aquaculture. The premise is based on creating a common approach and data to deliver sustainable supply chains for feed and farming.'

Cargill has already identified 'hot spots' where these companies can immediately improve their operations to help reduce carbon. For example, in the short term, feeds will be formulated with the same nutritional properties as previously required by the customers but with a lower carbon footprint. This means that fish fed these feeds will grow as well as before, but with fewer carbon emissions. This can drive a certain amount of reduction in the feed footprint. But, in addition, over the next few years, Cargill will work with their suppliers to produce raw materials with lower emissions. These can then be used in the new formulations – bringing further reductions in line with the 2030 goal.

Carbon credits from Cargill's carbon trading desk could then be coupled to this reduction pathway, creating a credible net-zero fish, in line with the Science Based Targets initiative draft guidance. This brings a strong product to the market – a net-zero carbon salmon or trout, with a clear reduction pathway to lower emissions each year.

'We recognise our role as providing a solution to the ocean's recovery whilst feeding the increasing population and understand the responsibility that farming in the sea entails. We are proud to lead the way for reducing emissions from the trout industry through this partnership with Cargill,' says Neil Manchester, Managing Director, Kames Fish Farming Ltd. 'However, carbon efficiency resulting in reduced emissions will only be fully achieved if we work together across the whole supply chain, so it's fantastic that this initiative and open communication is happening rapidly and at scale.'

''Salmones Aysén is a family-owned and operated company that have been in the path of becoming carbon neutral company with a carbon neutral produce for a few years now. Adopting different politics on how to farm and process our salmon, the company is changing its culture and growing into this new way of farming to achieve not only a zero emission, but a sustainable and fair way of producing,'' says Pablo Baraona, director of Salmones Aysén. ''Our commitment comes from the very heart of the company, because is a conviction that the owners of the company have themselves, not only in this company, but in life. Therefore, we have decided to commit with SeaFurther program along with Cargill, in order to move forward with this objective that we are convinced we are going to achieve in the coming years.

For more information about Cargill visit the website, HERE.

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BioMar and Earthworm Foundation take lead on responsible shrimp projects

Earthworm Foundation, an international non-profit undertaking social and environmental projects, is partnering with BioMar to drive responsible shrimp projects in Ecuador. The full value chain collaboration will not only include deforestation- free aquafeeds but capacity building initiatives to drive social change and sustainability best practices in the region.

At the Global Seafood Expo in Barcelona, Florie Hovine, Member Manager at Earthworm Foundation announced that they have partnered with BioMar to launch a responsible shrimp initiative that will drive good farming and social practices.

'Shrimp farming has a unique impact on the environment and there is an opportunity to work with Ecuadorian shrimp producers to support them by sharing improved environmental and social practices,' says Ms Hovine.

For the last year, BioMar and Earthworm Foundation have been assessing the Ecuadorian shrimp industry to build a framework for addressing the major issues in the industry. The project has taken a holistic approach, analysing everything from sourcing raw materials to the production and processing of shrimp. This includes raising awareness and training staff in global best practices that go beyond standard certification schemes.

Local communities are often not directly involved in the operations of shrimp farms, as workers require specific skills not usually found locally. The BioMar-Earthworm Foundation project will support educational programs aimed at upskilling local people to enable them to become qualified for shrimp farming employment. This way, local communities' benefit from the expected expansion of the Ecuadorian shrimp segment.

'The expansion of any market requires us to consider the impact on people and the environment. By partnering with a highly respected and knowledgeable organisation that specialises in social and environmental initiatives like Earthworm Foundation, we are ensuring that the growth of Ecuadorian shrimp production is done in the right way,' states Henrik Aarestrup, VP LATAM, Shrimp & Hatchery, BioMar Group.

Shrimp is primarily considered a commodity and is often farmed and processed in bulk. Through the Earthworm Foundation project, there is an opportunity to move the market beyond commodity thinking to create fully traceable, value-added products that consider both social and environmental impact parameters.

'Today's consumers are becoming more and more conscious about their seafood choices. They want to know where their seafood comes from and the impact it has had on the environment and local communities. Through this BioMar-Earthworm Foundation project, our two organisations can cater to the consumers' needs,' concludes Mr Aarestrup.

For more information about BioMar visit the website, HERE.
For information about Earthworm Foundation visit the website, HERE.

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Collaboration to raise profile of European Aquaculture

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) are joining forces to improve the aquaculture sector in Europe and ensure it is better recognised at a political level.

Image credit: NOAA's National Ocean Service on Flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

Yesterday the two organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the ASC's booth (Hall 4 4A401) at the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona. They pledge to work together towards their shared vision of a responsible aquaculture sector providing the solution to growing food demand.

This collaboration comes at a time of growing recognition in Europe as elsewhere of the importance of sustainable food systems. These issues are being looked at by the EU, and both ASC and FEAP have built up valuable knowledge and experience over many years that can help with these developments. FEAP members will also benefit from greater access to ASC's guidance on improving farm practices, which always bring economic as well as environmental benefits.

Chris Ninnes, ASC CEO, says, 'Aquaculture's importance to Europe can't be overstated: homegrown seafood like salmon, shellfish and seabass are vital to economies across the continent and provide food security. A more effective, and better represented, industry is better for all Europeans.

'From its inception the ASC programme has been about collaboration between diverse stakeholders, so we know how effective this can be at driving change across the industry.'

Lara Barazi-Geroulanou, FEAP's President, states, 'European aquaculture is frontrunner on environmental and social sustainability, but is a small player in the market. The European Union's legal framework is in need of clear and sound technical screening criteria for sustainable aquaculture. Our working experience as fish farmers, teaming up with the expertise of the ASC on responsible aquaculture standards, will assure reaching valuable results.'

The collaboration will be driven by a steering group co-chaired by Chris Ninnes and FEAP's General Secretary Javier Ojeda, which will identify opportunities and manage projects in line with the organisations' shared objectives.

According to the EU, aquaculture employs around 70,000 people across the continent, most of which are small businesses or micro-enterprises in coastal and rural areas.

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Gael Force unveils new safe features for extended barge range

Feed barge builder Gael Force Group has revealed its 2022 Sea Safe features and enhancements on its extended SeaFeed barge range, which are made from concrete and steel. All SeaFeed barges are equipped with their SeaFeed software, which is a feed system that enables the farm manager to have control over how their fish are fed.

The range was unveiled ahead of their exhibiting at Aquaculture UK, which will be held at Aviemore, in Scotland, from May 3-5. Current barges in Gael Force's portfolio include their 150T to 300T SeaFeed steel barges and 600T SeaFarm steel barge, of which they are adding their range of 400T to 500T SeaFeed steel barge designs. The barges are designed and built by a well-established and skilled team based in Scotland.

The 2022 Sea Safe features boast a range of features which include a smart new hatch alarm system which is connected to all doors and openings – meaning if doors are left open, the alarm system will notify the operator – robust DNV-compliant watertight doors and hatches, and watertight cable glands, among others.

350T concrete barge

Their optional hybrid power systems., which are supplied by Fjord Hybrid, can be installed to existing barges, meaning fish farms are able to run their generators for around three hours a day as opposed to the traditional 24 hours. This can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 percent and reportedly, extend the lifetime of power supply systems by up to 60 percent.

Group Managing Director Stewart Graham explains, "With the price of steel trading at peak levels, continuing to provide our customers with an economical choice of reliable, stable concrete feeding platforms remains important for the safety of farmers and cost-efficient husbandry of fish.

"Our feed barges have gradually evolved over many years as fish farming methods have advanced, however, by modernising our concrete designs within the SeaFeed range and implementing our collection of 2022 Sea Safe features we see this as a significant leap forward, building a stronger more competitive offering in support of our customers."

Visitors to Aquaculture UK will be able to visit Gael Force's stand and attend the unveiling of the 2022 Sea Safe features.

Cooke Aquaculture recently deployed their first hybrid feed barge in partnership with Gael Force and can be read about, HERE.

For more information on Gael Force Group visit their website, HERE.

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IFF join SimpliiGood to develop smoked salmon from spirulina

International food conglomerate IFF is teaming up with Israeli foodTech start-up SimpliiGood by Algaecore Technologies LTD. to develop the first commercial smoked salmon analog made entirely from a single ingredient: whole fresh spirulina. The company is climate protection-oriented, growing its spirulina in the desert under controlled, ideal conditions.

Single-ingredient algae-based product
The plant-based salmon-like cut is uniquely crafted to take on the appearance, colour, texture, and flavour of smoked salmon, yet without the ocean pollutants that living fish are commonly exposed to. These include compounds such as mercury, fossil fuels, and industrial waste. Composed of 100 percent pure, fresh, minimally processed spirulina, it is a clean-label product and is 40 percent complete protein.

To advance this initiative, an agreement for strategic cooperation was signed between the Israeli Innovation Authority, SimpliiGood, and FoodNxt—the innovation lab established by global food, beverage, nutraceutical, and fragrances industry leader IFF. SimpliiGood provides the raw material and texture and colour qualities, while IFF contributes the flavour and aroma attributes. The product is expected to hit the market by the end of 2023. In 2020, the global sales value of salmon amounted to approximately 13 billion euros.

SimpliiGood specialises in cultivating and harvesting the highly esteemed fresh blue-green algae, as well as producing a range of spirulina-centred food products. The new salmon analog will join a series of existing spirulina-based SimpliiGood branded products marketed in Israel to food producers and directly to consumers. Its current portfolio encompasses a range of meat substitutes, including hamburgers and chicken nuggets, as well as popsicles, ice cream, crackers, and beverages where spirulina serves either as the base ingredient or as nutritional enrichment.

'Our spirulina can act as a complete replacement for animal-based protein or be easily integrated into existing food products as an added-value ingredient, as it has a neutral flavour and maintains its full nutritional value,' says Lior Shalev, CEO and Co-founder of Algaecore. 'This project marks an exciting milestone in our company's product line expansion as we enter the fish substitute market.' In the first phase, the company will focus on producing a pure, spirulina-based smoked salmon analog, with plans to expand to additional fish analogs in the future.

Spirulina is heralded as one of the most nutrient-dense plant-based forms of protein on the planet, being a naturally rich source of whole protein, plus antioxidants, chlorophyll, vitamins, (including B12), and minerals, especially iron. The spirulina market is relatively young and is dominated by dried and powdered forms of the ingredient. SimpliiGood cultivates and markets a specific strain of 100 percent raw fresh spirulina that boasts 90 percent bioavailability, making it a powerful addition to any food application.

Mr Shalev reveals that the new, salmon-like creation is based on two IP-protected technological breakthroughs developed by the algae innovators. The first applies to its texturisation platform for forming salmon-like chunks solely from spirulina and have the same mouthfeel as the animal form. Its orange, salmon-like hue has been expressed through identifying and isolating the native beta carotene pigment naturally present in spirulina.

From greenhouse-to-fork, sustainably

SimpliiGood cultivates its spirulina in a system of 90m3 capacity ponds housed in greenhouses situated in the naturally sun-drenched southern desert region of Israel. 98 percent of the water used in the process is recycled. The company produces 50 tons of spirulina per year, with a harvest every 24 hours, making it a highly commercially viable plant-based protein source. SimpliiGood is a vertically integrated company that controls all aspects of production, from R&D, agricultural, and processing through to commercialisation, ensuring complete sustainability and making its product line resilient and good for the planet.

'The spirulina SimpliiGood cultivates is one of the most efficient converters of sun energy into protein,' adds Mr Shalev. 'Spirulina requires salt, minerals, heat, CO2, and water to thrive. The process of growing spirulina actually captures carbon and uses it to grow. The strain that the animal food industry places on the environment and food security has elevated the need to develop sustainable protein substitutes. We are excited to collaborate with these leading global food industry players to bring a tasty and highly nutritious product to consumers worldwide, without harming animals or the planet,' Mr Shalev concludes.

For more information about SimpliiGood visit the website, HERE.
For information about IFF visit the website, HERE.

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All roads lead to Aviemore as sector reunites for Aquaculture UK

With less than a week to go until Aquaculture UK opens in Aviemore, Scotland, anticipation is building for a record turn-out at the long-awaited event.

The exhibition has been expanded, both indoors and outside, to accommodate more exhibitors than ever, and over 2,500 visitors are expected from 45 countries, say show organisers Diversified Communications UK.

Aquaculture UK, to be opened by Scotland's Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands, Mairi Gougeon, brings together the entire sector, from key suppliers, feed companies, technical innovators and start-ups, to research institutions and investment platforms.

For three days, from Tuesday May 3 to Thursday May 5, Aviemore will be the centre of the aquaculture community. It is the first time in four years that the normally biennial show is being staged in person, following the Covid pandemic, and industry professionals are looking forward to getting 'reacquainted with colleagues and friends', as one leading supplier said.

Highlighting the increasing significance of aquaculture in Scotland and the wealth of technical developments since the last trade fair, the exhibition will showcase products, equipment and services from across the supply chain.

Among the big-name suppliers returning to Aquaculture UK is Gael Force, which will be displaying its SeaQurePen 500 at its outdoor stand, along with mooring components and netting. The company's Meet the Expert sessions indoors will explore new approaches to containment, as well as focusing on maximising feed barge energy efficiencies and reducing costs with advances in hybrid power.

Also exhibiting outside is Fluggaboats, which plans to bring one of its workboats to Aviemore, showing how farms can reduce emissions from diesel or petrol on farm sites. 

Shetland based engineering and fabrication specialist Ocean Kinetics will be presenting examples of industry innovations, including the installation of a Thermolicer treatment system and also technology to electrify fish farm barges.  

Managing director John Henderson said he sees the exhibition as an ideal opportunity to demonstrate how the company can solve a range of technological issues and he is looking forward to discussing a collaborative initiative to develop a clean energy system for the industry.

European exhibitors include ground-breaking Danish suppliers, who will be offering hospitality at the Denmark pavilion, along with insights into their long-standing expertise in the aquaculture industry.

The spotlight in the conference tent will be on the developments that have been driving change since the last in-person Aquaculture UK event, held in 2018.

The three-day programme, to be opened by Mairi Gougeon, will include presentations from Ally Dingwall of the ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council), Professor Simon MacKenzie, head of Stirling's Institute of Aquaculture, and Sarah Riddle of SAIC (the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre), which is hosting a Funding Surgery introducing some of the key organisations financing sustainable projects in aquaculture.

A focus on feed, led by Dutch group DSM and marine algal oil pioneer Veramaris, the day one session's sponsors, will investigate how alternative ingredients can contribute to the sustainable growth of aquaculture.

Aquaculture UK also hosts the Aquaculture Awards, which will be presented at a gala dinner on May 4, presided over by TV and radio star Dougie Vipond. A total of 14 prizes will be awarded on the night, celebrating those projects, businesses or individuals making an exceptional contribution to global aquaculture.

As the final countdown begins, industry insiders have been giving a snapshot of the importance of Aquaculture UK to their businesses.

Gael Force Marketing Manager Marc Wilson says, 'Aquaculture UK is a social trade show and the whole occasion manages to strike a balance between professional exhibits and the laid-back atmosphere required to enable people to feel like they can catch up informally.'

Peter Kersh, Managing Director of World Feeds, agrees, 'Not being able to visit or see our customers for the last two years has been painful and we long to get back to being able to talk face to face again to discuss the problems and issues facing the industry.'

And speaking for everyone, Ashleigh Currie, FiiZK Business Development Manager for Scotland and Ireland, says, 'In-person events are always a great way to catch up, have a laugh and discuss potential partnerships…attendees also get a better idea of the quality of our products and we get the chance to build relationships.'

The Aquaculture UK exhibition and conference, both free to attend, will be held at the Macdonald Resort in Aviemore, Scotland, from 3-5 May 2022. Show opening times are: Tuesday 3 May 12pm – 5pm; Wednesday 4 May 9am – 5pm; Thursday 5 May 9am – 3pm.

For more information about Aquaculture UK visit the website, HERE.

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SPAROS launches Atlantic salmon calibrations for their Nutritional Tools

SPAROS has just launched the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) calibrations for their Nutritional Tools:  FEEDNETICSTM and FiT feeding tables™.

FEEDNETICSTM is a prediction tool for fish farmers, aquafeed companies and aquaculture researchers to evaluate different aquafeeds under specific site conditions . With this virtual environment users can test multiple scenarios within hours and predict the effects of nutritional and environmental factors on the fish growth, feed conversion, feeding costs, body composition and waste load, enabling the most interesting solutions to be virtually screened prior to its practical application.

Because a one-size-fits-all feeding table does not fit efficient production, with FiT feeding tables™ farmers predict fish feeding requirements for their own target growth and feeds. For feed producers, this tool is useful for generating feeding tables for their own feed brands adjusted to their clients target growth curve.

Find out more by joining SPAROS at Aquaculture UK in Aviemore: 04 May, 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm, at the Conference Tent, or visit the website, HERE.

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New project seeks to establish sustainable shrimp production in the UK

A new project to facilitate sustainable shrimp production in the UK has just received a multi-million pound funding boost. The project, which will be led by experts from the University of Exeter in collaboration with the University of Reading and Rothamsted Research, will be looking to establish sustainable shrimp farming in the UK.

The UK£2 million in funding was given by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), as part of its Strategic Priorities Fund (SPF), which aims to increase research and innovation and respond to opportunities accordingly. This is part of the UKRI's UK£14 million injection into research that values human health and the environment.

Professor Rod Wilson from Exeter's Biosciences department will be the project's lead, titled "Transformational blueprint for a blue economy on UK terrestrial farms: integrating sustainable shrimp production in a changing agricultural landscape.'" Alongside Professor Wilson will be Professor Ian Bateman from Exeter's Land, Environment, Economics and Policy (LEEP) institute.

Traditional production methods for shrimp rely on unsustainable practices, such as the destruction of mangrove forests that are key in the removal of CO². Overseas production methods can lead to local biodiversity problems and the shrimp containing residue that proves harmful to human health. By aiming to establish the UK as a "terrestrial blue economy," the project will be aiming to demonstrate the health and environmental benefits of indoor, home-grown shrimp.

This will be done by introducing a risk-free, healthier and sustainable supply chain for consumers and encouraging terrestrial farms in the UK to implement practices that aren't harmful to the environment and human health. Shrimp farming production will be co-located with renewable energy sources across a number of existing Anaerobic Digestor (AD) plants in the UK.

The hope is that if 20 percent of these AD plants are adapted for shrimp farming, 960 shrimp production units could be in play, along with harvesting 5520 tonnes of shrimp per year, which currently makes up 25 percent of UK warm water shrimp imports.

"In the UK we love eating shrimp (king prawns) as a healthy, high quality and tasty seafood," explains Professor Wilson. "This project aims to transform practices on UK terrestrial farms to encourage the integration of home-grown, indoor shrimp production alongside anaerobic digestors (AD) that use farm waste to make renewable energy. These AD also generate a lot of heat which is otherwise wasted, but tropical king prawn farms can utilise this heat to make their production cost-effective in the UK. This simultaneously means we will have better control over both their nutritional quality and the environmental impact of their production."

The project will be seeking to generate data that evaluates the potential of sustainable UK shrimp production which utilises renewable energy technology and lessens the environmental impact.

"By providing a new income stream for farmers which requires far less land than conventional farming, the 'terrestrial blue economy' of prawn production frees up farms to take advantage of grants under the new Agriculture Act for enhancing biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, improving water quality and providing recreational access to the environment," says Professor Bateman.

Professor Guy Poppy, Programme Director of the Transforming the UK Food Systems SPF Programme says, "The food system affects all of us every day and plays an essential role in both human health and the health of the planet.

"The 11 new projects joining our consortia and CDT means we now have a network of more than 37 UK research organisations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland."

Concluding, he said that the research being conducted "can be tried and tested across the global food system, with the UK leading the way towards healthier and more sustainable food for all."

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Vietnam’s Department of Livestock Production and Informa Markets enhance collaboration for Vietstock 2022

Informa Markets and Department of Livestock Production (MARD) has enhanced their partnership and collaboration by signing an MOU for the mutual goal to promote Vietnam's Livestock production sector as well as sharping the industry with sustainable development strategy. The Department of Livestock Production (MARD) will perform their role as the Host and market consultant for Vietstock 2022 Expo & Forum and its umbrella events.

Vietstock 2022 is the leading trade show for Vietnam's Premier International Feed, Livestock & Meat Industry. The event will be back from 12–14 October 2022, at Saigon Exhibition & Convention Centre, Ho Chi Minh City, and will be celebrating its 10th years of anniversary this edition.
 

Vietstock 2022, held in conjunction with Vietfeed & Vietmeat, is where industry professionals involved in the farm-to-fork value chain for livestock products to meet up and form a huge community from which to share and create new business opportunities, partnerships, ideas and solutions. The practical synergies of these three combined exhibitions provide a unique one-stop show to bring together all feed, livestock and meat sectors, representing the entire animal protein value chain from production to consumption.

In the international conference program that going alongside with Vietstock 2022, the industry professionals will have the opportunity to update on the new market insights shared by the top invited industry experts. The Vietstock Awards will also be returning with new award categories to recognize the most outstanding contribution from the industry stakeholders in the effort of promoting Vietnam livestock sector.

Vietstock 2022 Expo & Forum will welcome more than 350 leading international exhibitors and 10,000 trade visitors & delegates from the feed, livestock as well as meat sectors in Vietnam. The show is expected to be the biggest Livestock, Feed & Meat event in Vietnam to restart the market.

For more information visit the Vietstock 2022 website, HERE.

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ASC broadens reach of programme with two new updates

ASC has published a revised ASC Shrimp Standard, as well as new requirements specifically for Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) farms.

Image credit: Franklin Hunting on Flickr
(CC BY-ND 2.0)

The Shrimp Standard revisions mean that freshwater crayfish and freshwater shrimp farmers can now work towards ASC's stringent requirements for responsible farming, with the addition of new species to the Standard. The requirements for RAS operations will ensure that ASC certification takes into account the unique impacts of this method of farming, which is growing in popularity around the world.

Revised ASC Shrimp Standard
The revision to the ASC Shrimp Standard adds four new genera of freshwater species, and means that 99 percent of globally farmed shrimp are now covered by the scope of the standard. The four new genera added to the Shrimp Standard are Cherax, Procambarus, Astacus and Macrobrachium.

Michiel Fransen, ASC Director of Standards and Science, says, 'This revision spreads the potential positive impact of ASC by enabling more farmers to apply for certification, which requires both environmental and social responsibility.

'ASC's Shrimp Standard now includes almost all global shrimp production within its scope. Given the benefits of certification – to farmers, workers, the environment, and local communities – that can only be a good thing.'

As part of ASC's commitment to constant improvement and collaboration, all ASC standards are periodically revised and updated by multi-stakeholder teams of experts, taking into account public feedback. The revision of the Shrimp Standard has not only added important new species, but also made a number of other updates ensuring the Standard reflects current best practices.

New ASC RAS Module
RAS farms use recirculation and filtration systems which enable the farming of fish in contained facilities that can be placed on land. This can reduce certain impacts associated with farming, but can increase other potential impacts – things like energy and water use, and effluent disposal.

To reflect the increasing use of RAS, ASC has developed a RAS Module, which includes new requirements that apply specifically to RAS farms. This includes requirements on energy monitoring and developing strategies to reduce emissions, and minimising negative effect on water resources. Any RAS farm will have to meet these requirements, in addition to all of the requirements in the specific ASC standard covering the species they are farming.

Mr Fransen says, 'Aquaculture is a fast-moving, innovative industry. This means we have to continuously review and adapt the ASC programme to make sure we're still reflecting the industry, and current best practices.

'RAS farming, like all farming, has particular impacts. At ASC we don't believe one method of farming is inherently superior – we think what matters is the specific impacts are properly addressed and minimised.'

There will now be a six-month period before both new updates are live and mandatory, giving farmers and auditors the chance to familiarise themselves with the changes and additions.

For more information about the ASC visit the website, HERE.

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NeoSpectra by Si-Ware partners with AB Vista’s Aunir to offer customers NIR calibration choices for in-field analysis

The partnership will offer NeoSpectra Scanner users Aunir's INGOT NIR calibration models for accurate in-field analysis across animal and aqua feed, feed ingredients, pet food, forage, and other products.

NeoSpectra by Si-Ware, the creator of NeoSpectra material analysis solutions built on single-chip FT-NIR spectrometers, has announced a partnership with AB Vista's Aunir, a global leader in the development and supply of near infrared reflectance (NIR) spectroscopy calibrations. For the first time, the partnership will give customers subscription-based access to all Aunir INGOT NIR calibration models on the NeoSpectra LabStore to empower in-field analysis and decision-making across animal feed, feed ingredients, flour, and milling, pet food, aquafeed, forages, animal by-products, plant breeders, and other specialty products.

NeoSpectra by Si-Ware will implement the full Aunir INGOT NIR calibration database on the NeoSpectra LabStore. The NeoSpectra platform has the first and largest LabStore in the market, offering thousands of calibration models to users from trusted partners around the globe such as labs, researchers, and universities. Today, the INGOT calibration library is the world's most extensive with more than 500,000 analysed samples and over four million data points. The partnership will provide portable NeoSpectra Scanner users with additional top-tier choices in NIR calibrations across a multitude of industry applications.

NIR analysis is a quick, accurate, and reliable method to measure the nutritional, chemical and physical properties of ingredients and products. Together, Aunir and NeoSpectra by Si-Ware will give users the autonomy to choose the right calibration model to make important business decisions in real-time. Users will be able to measure the integrity of raw materials and ensure their finished product meets specifications. In addition, NeoSpectra Scanner users will have access to the very latest calibrations across various markets and finished products through Aunir's automatic calibration updates when subscribing via the NeoSpectra LabStore.

'Our partnership with Aunir is exciting for our customers,' says Ralph Hewitt, Vice President of Global Sales at NeoSpectra by Si-Ware. 'Historically, NIR users had to build their own calibration models, purchase them for a high price, or search for a partner that had a calibration model that worked with their platform. NeoSpectra by Si-Ware's partnership with Aunir gives them the power to choose which calibration model is best for their business. We will not only offer the models at an affordable price but enhance customer confidence in their business decisions knowing their portable NeoSpectra Scanner uses state-of-the-art calibrations from a leading global developer like Aunir.'

For over 40 years, Aunir has collected data for its INGOT database with a primary focus on measuring and analysing moisture, protein, oil, fiber, ash, starch, and sugar levels in animal feed, feed ingredients, forages, pet food, milled flours and more. The calibrations represent a range of geographies, growing seasons, and environments for reliable results from most sample types. The Aunir INGOT calibration database and models will be available for NeoSpectra Scanner users to browse and subscribe to in the NeoSpectra LabStore at the end of April.

'Now more than ever, customers are faced with a variety of challenges and important business decisions, particularly to improve their margins and reduce costs while maintaining the best possible product,' says Chris Piotrowski, AB Vista's NIR Services Director. 'Portable NIR analysis puts the power of in-field decision-making in the hands of our customers, and our partnership with NeoSpectra by Si-Ware will make that possible in a way that is cost-effective. Customers will be able to subscribe to our INGOT database calibrations via the NeoSpectra LabStore, which will be a game-changer for accurate measurement in the field and their return on NIR investment.'

For more information about Si-Ware visit the website, HERE.

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Aquasend to participate in Incubator program

Aquasend has announced its participation in the Xylem Innovation Incubator program, run by leading water technology company Xylem. The program, a one-year initiative, was launched with the objective of helping high school and university level students solve water issues with the help of Xylem colleagues.

Students who participate are given access to equipment, workspaces, networking, and other valuable opportunities. Both Aquasend and Xylem will be working together to provide aquaculture with water solutions and facilitate the development of technologies.

Aquasend is no stranger to water technology, as it provides fish farmers with innovative technology and strives to transform global aqua farming in the next five years. Currently, the products it provides improve water quality via continuous monitoring and are applicable to a wide range of fish farms across the world.

Aquasend's latest product, the Aquasend Beacon, measures dissolved oxygen and temperature, continuously analysing water quality and sending real-time alerts if there are any problems detected. Thanks to the monitoring technology of the Beacon, it can close a "geographical gap" between farmer or researcher, which reduces time, and labour and travel costs.

Image credit: mike on Flickr
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"The Aquasend team is ecstatic to have this opportunity to work closely with water leaders within the Xylem organisation," says Kristin Elliott, CEO of Aquasend shares. "Our collaboration is foucsed on bringing innovative technologies to inland aquaculture markets. As aquaculture grows to become an important food source, it's our goal to support this industry with data and solutions."

From Xylem Innovation Labs, Sivan Zamir, Vice President, said that they aim to "bring new technologies to market faster."

"Aquasend is an example of a technology company that is positioned both to have a near term impact on aquaculture farmers and to support long term sustainable practices with respect to the water they consume," Mr Zamir explains.

For more information on Aquasend visit their website, HERE.

For more information on Xylem visit their website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Lisaqua investigates the possibility of using recovered energy for their farm

Lisaqua, a company currently responsible for developing the first land-based shrimp farm in France – and can be read about HERE – has launched a feasibility study into using recovered energy to power the project, from an energy recovery unit (ERU) in France.

The study is being launched in collaboration with the SMITOM authority, an authority in charge of treating and recovering household waste – and Veolia – a company designing solutions for water, waste and energy management.

In April of last year, SMITOM authority and Veolia launched 'Valo'Pulse', a competition aimed at agricultural or industrial project holders wanting to utilise reliable and renewable heat sources, in order to limit the environmental impact of their operations.

The competition makes it possible to identify, select and support projects that belong to a circular economy approach which commits to creating local and sustainable energy synergies. It also promotes local employment.

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Lisaqua has been selected as winner of this competition and has now been chosen for a project that will investigate the feasibility of setting up France's first land-based shrimp farm using heat from an energy recovery unit in Monthyon, France. Lisaqua has already developed an aquaculture production system with a low environmental impact and close to consumers, to reduce the emissions created by importing seafood. This echoes their 'triple zero' guarantee: zero antibiotics, zero km travelled and zero polluting discharge.

The company will be relying on the recovery of waste heat from Veolia's ERU so that the farm's water at the right temperature can be maintained. Constructing the heat exchanger and shrimp farm is scheduled for 2024.

"Our vision is to produce more efficiently, with fewer resources," explains Gabriel Boneu, Lisaqua's co-founder. "We are delighted to build this first farm project based on an industrial ecology model, in partnership with the dynamic teams of the SMITOM and Veolia, who will be able to bring their expertise and experience."

"We are very pleased to welcome Lisaqua to our Monthyon site," says Jean-François Léger, President of SMITOM du Nord Seine-et-Marne. "The project as presented has convinced us, as much by the passion and ambition of its designers as by the seriousness of their approach. We hope that it will be carried through to completion … in the interests of the region and with regards to its environmental and social impact."

Concluding, Pascal Tissot, the Regional Director for Waste Recycling and Recovery from Veolia says they are "committed to ecological transformation."

"In particular by supporting territories in their environmental transition and the reuse of resources, we are committed to actively participating in the implementation of this unique project in France."

The Aquaculturists

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SPAROS and PTAqua join forces to offer fish hatcheries custom-made nutrition

More fish hatcheries will now have easy access to tailored feeds by SPAROS, through Pacific Trading Aquaculture Ltd. (PTAqua) well-established distribution platform. The bespoke feed products will be of great benefit to hatcheries focusing on larval fish stages of species such as Seriolas, Meagre, Seabass, Seabream and especially Ballan wrasse.

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SPAROS' products are a response to the increasing need for innovative nutritional solutions for both traditional and emerging aquaculture species.

"There is a growing demand for tailored feed products in aquaculture to sustainably boost productivity while maintaining good fish welfare standards. This is particularly important for emerging markets and species such as Ballan wrasse and Seriolas, as it can help overcome production bottlenecks in terms of fish growth and survival. Our mission is to provide hatcheries with the best nutritional solutions and SPAROS products fit the bill perfectly," says Ian Sutton, Joint-CEO from PTAqua.

SPAROS premium products are formulated for specific fish species using top quality and highly digestible ingredients that help fish hatcheries to excel in performance and quality. These feeds are produced using cold extrusion and microencapsulation technologies to ensure maximum protection of water-soluble nutrients, such as taurine, while fulfilling larvae nutritional requirements.

"At the larval stage, not all fish species thrive on the same microfeed. What works for gilthead seabream may not work for Senegalese sole or Ballan wrasse. There are significant improvements in fish performance when you tailor the formulation or the pellet physical properties to each fish species. Through collaboration with research institutes and feedback from our customers, we have focused on diversifying and tailoring feeds for different fish larvae, which translates into significant performance benefits in the long run," says Luis Conceição, co-founder and R&D director from SPAROS.

From SPAROS' portfolio of hatchery feeds, PTAqua will distribute WINFast - premium feeds for fish species such as Seriolas, meagre, seabass and seabream - WINWrasse - the first customised commercial earliest stage microdiet for Ballan wrasse larvae - and ENRico - an all-in-one enrichment feed for artemia and rotifers.

"We're delighted to be partnering with PTAqua to provide SPAROS nutritional solutions that will ultimately support the sustainable growth of aquaculture. These are exciting times for hatcheries - particularly in the Norwegian, mediterranean and Middle East markets - that will now have easier access to our premium products and high-level technical support through PTAqua's strong presence in these regions,' adds Mr Conceição.

For more information about SPAROS visit the website, HERE.
For information about PTAqua visit the website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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