New project to sharpen seafood skills

Researchers at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) have been awarded almost £39k to develop new seafood skills training courses in partnership with Scottish Sea Farms.

The project will develop and pilot three types of courses with seafood technicians, veterinary professionals and SRUC students.

Technician training piloted with Scottish Sea Farms and continuing professional development (CPD) courses offered to vets will include topics such as higher-level data skills, fish health and gill health.

Undergraduate skills development will be offered to SRUC students – particularly those studying Rural Animal Health and Animal Science – through work placement activities.

The aim of the project is to improve the skills and knowledge of technicians and veterinary professionals currently working in, or interested in diversifying into, the seafood sector. It will also highlight career opportunities available to students.

It will maximise the use of SRUC’s virtual learning environment to ensure course materials are accessible to workers in remote coastal communities and will also improve links between aquaculture veterinary sector businesses in these areas.

Dr Mary Thomson, Vice Principal Skills and Lifelong Learning at SRUC, says, “This is a fantastic opportunity to support the sector with upskilling which can improve business productivity. It will expand SRUC’s existing CPD provision, and learners will benefit from improved understanding of the sector and career pathways available.”

Ronnie Soutar, Head of Veterinary Services at Scottish Sea Farms, says, “The health of our fish, and the development of the people who care for them, are central to everything we do at Scottish Sea Farms, and this new collaboration with SRUC will support both – namely, by providing current and emerging generations with opportunities to gain practical experience and, in turn, grow their skills and understanding of the sector.”

The money was awarded from the £100 million UK Seafood Fund which aims to support the long-term future and sustainability of the UK fisheries and seafood sector.

For more information about SRUC visit the website, HERE.
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Benedikt Hálfdanarson, new General Manager of Benchmark Genetics Iceland HF

Benchmark Genetics Iceland HF is pleased to announce the appointment of Benedikt (Benni) Hálfdanarson as General Manager, starting 1^st of March. With a proven track record in international business and extensive experience in management in the aquaculture industry, we are confident that he will lead the company to new heights. 

Jonas Jonasson is stepping down as CEO of Benchmark Genetics Iceland and will continue as the global Production Director for salmon in Benchmark Genetics, a role he has served since 2019.  Jonas has been with the company since 1996, first as Genetics and Broodstock Manager and since 2006 as the CEO. He is recognised in the industry as the architect behind developing the production method of producing broodstock on land for the supply of salmon ova all year round. A technique was first developed in Iceland and later implemented in Norway for the Salten facility and is now also in Chile. Jonasson is pleased to hand over the leadership of the Icelandic business to Hálfdanarson, with whom he has been an acquaintance for many years.

Handing over the baton to Hálfdanarson, Jonas Jonasson says, “I am convinced that Benedikt has the skills and experience needed to continue the successful journey of Benchmark Genetics Iceland. I know him as a collaborative and inspiring leader who can get the best out of his staff. His proven records from bringing the company Vaki Aquaculture Systems from a local business to a global aquaculture tech company are impressive. I have the backing of the entire team in Iceland in welcoming Benedikt to his new role in Benchmark. It has been such a privilege to have been able to lead the company into its present state as a world-leading salmon egg supplier these last 18 years as CEO, with our fantastic staff.”

In addition to his management experience, Benedikt Hálfdanarson has a solid educational background, including an MBA from the University of Iceland and a Master's in Marketing Science from the Norwegian School of Management – BI. 

The new General Manager, Mr Hálfdanarson says, “I have followed the company from StofnFiskur to becoming the globally recognised genetics supplier of salmon ova and lumpfish fry, Benchmark Genetics Iceland, and it is with a great deal of humility that I now take over the responsibilities of managing the business from Jonas. I am impressed by the level of knowledge of the Icelandic team, and I look forward to drawing on their experience, combining my expertise from the industry and collaborating on developing the business further.”

For more information visit the Benchmark website, HERE.

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New study shows krill diet fulfill choline requirements and prevents fat accumulation in intestine and liver in farmed Atlantic salmon

A new study, conducted in collaboration with Professor Åshild Krogdahl and Associate Professor Trond Kortner at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and Aker BioMarine, concludes that krill meal and krill oil fulfill the dietary choline needs for growth in farmed Atlantic salmon.

Antarctic krill in both its meal and oil forms is a natural and sustainable source of several important nutrients for fish, including phospholipids, omega-3 fatty acids, astaxanthin and choline. The researchers behind this study set out to evaluate whether choline from krill meal or krill oil as part of the dietary feed could help alleviate intestinal steatosis, called lipid malabsorption syndrome (LMS) in severe cases.

'Choline is an important nutrient that is necessary for health and growth in fish. It also influences intestinal health. In our research with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, we, tested whether choline from krill could reduce the buildup of excessive lipids in the intestine, causing LMS, which is detrimental to fish health and growth,' says Dr Kiranpreet Kaur, Director R&D Fish Health and Nutrition, Aker BioMarine, and a corresponding author of this study.

Researchers set up an 8-week trial with Atlantic salmon, testing six different diets
The 56-day feeding trial was conducted on-site at the Center for Fish Research at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences campus in Ås, Norway. This study marks the first time that the unique choline type found in krill, called phosphatidylcholine, was evaluated for its effect on reducing intestinal steatosis in salmon. The krill ingredients for the study were provided by Aker BioMarine, from the QRILL™ Aqua product line.

During the trial, a total of six different diets were formulated, including a reference diet with no choline supplement, two diets with krill oil and another two with krill meal, each at varying levels. The sixth diet was supplemented with inorganic form of choline, choline chloride, at a high level. The full study can be found HERE.

Key findings
The study showed the high and similar ability of both krill meal and krill oil to reduce lipid (fat) accumulation in the salmon intestine, thus reducing the likelihood of intestinal steatosis and/or lipid malabsorption syndrome.

In a similar way, choline at lower inclusion levels from both krill meal and krill oil reduced lipid (fat) accumulation in the salmon liver to the same extent as the positive control group.

The krill meal and krill oil diets showed a growth stimulating effect in comparison to highly choline deficient diets.

Salmon growth was significantly higher in the krill meal and krill oil groups consuming 2.6g/kg of choline, in comparison to the positive control group, indicating that even sub-optimal levels of choline can satisfy choline needs for growth.

'What we learned from this study is that choline from krill meal and krill oil is equally effective, even at lower inclusion levels, in stimulating growth in fish and in supporting better intestinal and liver health,' says Sigve Nordrum, EVP Animal Health and Nutrition, Aker BioMarine. 'Our findings prove that krill is a functional ingredient that can significantly improve the nutritional quality of the dietary feed, leading to better quality products.'

For more information about Aker BioMarine visit the website, HERE.

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Norcod switches first cod farm facility to shore power

Norwegian aquaculture venture leads the way in sustainable cod farming by ditching fossil fuel in favour of shore power as part of its ongoing electrification programme.

Trondheim-based Norcod last week completed a large project to implement shore power as the energy source for its Frosvika production facility in Meløy municipality, Nordland county. 

'Our ambition has always been to set the standard in responsible, industrial-scale farming of top-quality cod, through constant operational improvements that ensure sustainability and fish welfare. By installing wired onshore power, we are making a valuable contribution to reducing climate impact both locally and globally,' says Chief Sustainability Officer Hilde R Storhaug.

Norcod collaborated with electricity company Meløy Energi, contractor Terje Halsan AS and the local office of Bravida Norge to implement the solution. 'Frosvika now stands as a low-emission facility that is, to my knowledge, best in class,' says Ms Storhaug.

Renewable-sourced energy
Furthermore, the energy powering Norcod's feed barge at Frosvika comes origin-guaranteed from clean hydropower. 'These are the single most important measures to reduce the locality's direct emissions,' Ms Storhaug says. 

Unplugging the site's diesel generators, as well as feeding the fish using energy-efficient waterborne feeding technology, have also had a major impact on ambient noise levels. 'Near silent operations benefit not only the fish in the nets and the immediate surroundings, but also enhance the working environment for our employees,' adds Ms Storhaug. 

She notes that waterborne feeding addresses the potential adverse effects of traditional airborne feeding procedures by greatly reducing wear in feed pipes and the release of microplastics into the water. 'Another of our sustainability goals is to continue to achieve the best possible scores on seabed environmental surveys,' Ms Storhaug says.

Substantial emissions saving
The electric-powered service vessel 'Hilde S' in use at Frosvika since April also contributes to reducing noise levels, as well as CO2 emissions in the production cycle. 'Switching to fossil-free operations carries a significant sustainability upside. We estimate we'll save around 160,000 litres of diesel on an annual basis, which translates to a 420-tonne reduction in CO2 emissions related to the feed barge and the equipment it supplies with energy,' says Ms Storhaug. 

That reduction is equivalent to driving 2.1 million kilometres – or 53 times the circumference of the Earth – with a standard petrol car.

Norcod is set to implement shore power at its next production site at Jamnungen in Frøya municipality in the near future. 'The configuration of shore power, electric feed barges and electric service vessel provides is the most emissions-reducing equipment set-up seen to date in Norwegian aquaculture industry. This strategic approach to procurement remains our priority,' Ms Storhaug says.

Bolstering social sustainability
Local value creation has also been high on agenda Norcod's sustainability agenda since its inception. Its presence has generated positive turnover in terms goods and services in the communities where its facilities are located. 'Just in one year of operation in Meløy, we have spent NOK 4.5m [EUR 429,000] on local procurement, as well as sponsoring cultural and sporting events,' says Stian Myrvang, Norcod's Area Manager in Meløy and Nesna municipalities.

He adds that the company is seen as a serious industry player that has cemented good relationships with local stakeholders. 'We're also strengthening local communities by providing employment and opportunities for young people. We now have 34 staff, four of whom are apprentices gaining valuable experience,' Mr Myrvang says.

The company, which holds Global GAP certification, has started its second harvest period of premium farmed cod, running from October 2022 to June 2023. Norcod plans to scale up production every year in order to reduce costs while meeting growing market demand remain, and in 2024 expects to harvest more than 20,000 metric tons of product in total. 

For more information about Norcod visit the website, HERE.

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AquaFuture Spain'23 grows to become the great aquaculture forum: 160 companies from 24 countries and an extensive program

The International Fair of the Aquaculture Industry, AquaFuture Spain, organised by OK Eventos, will hold its second call from March 28 to 30 at the Feira Internacional de Galicia ABANCA venue.

Image credit: Enrico Strocchi on flickr
(CC BY-SA 2.0)

An appointment that will have 160 companies from 24 countries in its exhibition area, 10 percent more than in its previous edition, which will occupy 12,000 square meters, nine percent more surface area in which a large outdoor space is added to the exhibition pavilion nearby for large vessels and facilities.

Figures that according to the director of AquaFuture Spain, Juan Lijo, "allow us to ensure that we have achieved our main objective, to consolidate the event as a solid project for the future, a notable event on the international calendar." An achievement to which is added the participation in this second call of all the aquaculture actors in Spain, from research centers, institutions and associations to producers, in addition to considerably increasing the number of international exhibitors, which account for 35 percent of the total.

An extensive program with key topics
One of the main attractions of Aquafuture Spain will be its technical conferences, which this year will delve a little deeper into those key aspects for the sustainability and growth of the aquaculture sector.

Yolanda Morales, from the Acuiplus Cluster, a collaborating entity of the event, highlighted about them that "the field of plastics will be discussed and how its regulations are affecting throughout the value chain, we will have a table on internationalization and opportunities In other markets such as the Chilean and Moroccan, a specific table will be held on financing aquaculture both from the point of view of operations and from initiatives and innovation, the field of transport will also be addressed within the framework of traceability of the products and also the challenges within animal welfare". With all this, he stresses that "every year we intend to dialogue, deepen and reflect with experts, jointly, assessing where we are and where we are going in the sector".

This year there will also be the participation of the Spanish Aquaculture Business Association (Apromar), which will hold a round table of great interest, specifically on the circular economy.

The organisation is also continuing to finalize the Show Cookings program which, after the good results of the first edition and the absolute full capacity of all its sessions, will allow people to discover and enjoy exquisite dishes made with aquaculture products, from clams and mussels to trout, turbot or algae.

Visitor registration
This second edition of the International Aquaculture Industry Exhibition, whose hours will be from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during its three days, has extensive information on its website, HERE.

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FeedKind® Protein wins FDA GRAS status for use in aquaculture

Calysta, the world leader in fermented protein, has announced that its leading product, FeedKind®, has achieved generally recognised as safe (GRAS) status with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Image credit: Aqua Mechanical on flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

The FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine have granted Calysta's FeedKind protein GRAS status for use in the US in salmonid feeds at up to 18 percent of the diet. In the US FeedKind will be listed under its common name, dried fermentation biomass.

The ruling means aquaculture companies in the US now have access to a nutritionally rich and non-GMO protein ingredient that both helps preserve biodiversity while addressing a growing market need for proteins for feed and food.

Allan LeBlanc, VP and Aquaculture Lead at Calysta says, 'With so many exciting developments in US aquaculture, we are thrilled to be able to access this market. FeedKind protein is a perfect fit for the trout industry and the burgeoning recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) industry for Atlantic salmon.

'FeedKind is an exceptional alternative to other sources of protein, and is free from heavy metals, pesticides, and microplastics, ensuring animals are only fed the nutrients they need. Because it can be produced year-round using no arable land and without using any plant or animal ingredients, it truly is a protein without limits.'

Herman Sloot, Vice President of Commercial Development says, 'US GRAS status was a key achievement for us, so we are very pleased with the official notice. This brings the US closer in line with existing approvals in other markets throughout the world, such as the EU, and enables us to expand the market opportunity for this revolutionary product. This is an important first step in our path toward US GRAS status for use in pet foods to complement our existing EU and UK approvals for pet food.

'GRAS status also means the world has an effective and nutritious option added to its toolbox as it comes to grips with the need to produce more food while protecting biodiversity for current and future generations. FeedKind has a far lower carbon footprint than conventional sources of animal protein and can help pet food and animal feed producers achieve their carbon reduction targets.'

GRAS status comes after Calysta successfully switched on its first commercial-scale facility via Calysseo, its joint venture with animal feed giant Adisseo, providing 20,000 tonnes of protein for the Asian aquaculture market. Calysseo has already announced its intentions to expand its production footprint in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

For more information, visit the Calysta website or the FeedKind website.

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AQUA 2024 will be held in Copenhagen!

The Boards of Directors of the European Aquaculture Society and the World Aquaculture Society have just approved a change of location and date for the AQUA 2024 event, previously scheduled in Stavanger, Norway for June.

They are happy to announce that AQUA 2024 will take place from August 25-29 in Copenhagen. It will comprise a scientific conference, trade exhibition, industry forums, workshops, student events and receptions. The event will highlight the latest aquaculture research and innovation to underpin continued growth of this exciting food production sector.  It will be a showcase for Denmark, and its innovation leadership in several key technologies crucial for future aquaculture, but also a meeting and exchange platform for experts from around the world.

The theme of AQUA 2024 is BLUE FOOD, GREEN SOLUTIONS.

Aquatic food is a major component of our food future, and Blue Food from all species in marine and freshwater production, is rightly in the spotlight for its potential to provide healthy, tasty and highly nutritious food for the planet. 

Food systems transformation is a crucial requirement to mitigate climate impacts and offer enhanced food safety and security to billions. Aquaculture has demonstrated its resilience to change and is increasingly recognised for its environmental responsibility, reduced footprint and high efficiency in protein transformation and provision.

As our knowledge increases, so does our potential ability to offer Green Solutions throughout the aquaculture (and seafood) value chain.  These solutions need not only to be financially feasible, they must also be based on the intelligent and sustainable utilisation of resources to maintain a measurable and limited footprint. 

Blue Food production must grow. Green Solutions will help it to do so.

The AQUA events are co-organised by the European Aquaculture Society (EAS) and the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) and are held every six years. Past events were held in Nice (2000), Florence (2006), Prague (2012) and Montpellier (2018).

For more information visit the website, HERE.

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BENEO extends animal nutrition portfolio with faba bean ingredients

BENEO, one of the leading manufacturers of functional ingredients, is pleased to announce the expansion of its product portfolio for aqua and livestock feed with the addition of the new faba bean ingredient range, including faba bean protein concentrate, starch-rich flour, and hulls. These pulse ingredients are non-GMO and represent sustainable sources of protein, starch, and fibre, enabling feed manufacturers to improve the nutritional profile of their products.

Aqua and livestock feed markets are increasingly raising consumers' concerns regarding sustainability and are coming under greater scrutiny from authorities. As a result, many feed producers have committed to ambitious targets to meet these changing requirements. Demand for a more eco-conscious feed sector is also reflected in the sustainability objectives of key industry associations. At the same time, with rising concerns around the environmental impact of raw materials, producers are also facing present and future price pressures, alongside logistical and supply issues. This is driving demand for sustainable ingredients, such as locally produced plant-based alternatives, that can deliver both a good nutritional profile and improved technical properties.

When it comes to sustainability, faba beans help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at farm level. The faba beans can capture nitrogen from the air, to provide it for themselves and subsequent plants, which reduces the need for fertiliser input. Also, the faba beans are grown in a German region with good rainfall and soil with good water retention capacity, so that irrigation is not necessary. BENEO strives to source its faba beans at Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) Gold level from German farmers with long-term contracts, to ensure production and supply stability. Furthermore, the production process, being done locally in Germany, has been chosen for its low energy and water consumption in comparison to alternative processes; overall contributing to BENEO's sustainability targets.

Faba bean ingredients are showing promising potential for aqua and livestock recipe formulations as they are a good source of protein, starch and dietary fibre. BENEO's faba bean protein concentrate, starch-rich flour and hull ingredients are produced from faba bean varieties which are low in antinutritional factors (e.g., tannins, vicine and convicine) and are guaranteed to be non-GMO.

BENEO's faba bean starch-rich flour offers producers of livestock and aqua feed a good source of starch and energy, while still containing a significant residual amount of protein of approximately 20 percent. It is ideal for use in many applications, including for salmon and trout, as well as in broilers' starter and piglets' weaner diets. Also, thanks to its good solubility and rather low iron content, it could be applied in liquid feed like calf milk replacers.

BENEO's faba bean protein concentrate is a concentrated source of vegetal protein that serves as a good alternative to e.g., animal and soy proteins. It has excellent solubility in comparison to other vegetal proteins and a good amino acid profile.

BENEO's faba bean hulls can be used to provide a source of insoluble fibres in feed for ruminants or gestating sows, while also offering certain protein and starch contents which increase its nutritional value.

The faba bean hulls and protein concentrate are listed in the EU Catalogue of Feed Materials, while faba bean starch-rich flour is in the EU Feed Materials Register.

Karel Thurman, Commercial Director Animal Nutrition at BENEO comments, 'Manufacturers of pet food and feed are increasingly faced with the challenge of finding ingredients that deliver the necessary nutrients for their formulas, whilst also complying with ambitious commitments towards sustainability. Our new plant-based faba bean ingredients are a valuable addition to our portfolio, as they provide convincing sustainability credentials and offer producers in the livestock and aquafeed industries sound nutritional and technological alternatives for their feed recipes.'

For more information about BENEO visit the website, HERE.

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Skretting India launches state-of-the-art shrimp and fish feed facility in Surat

Skretting – Nutreco's global aquafeed division- has opened a state-of-the-art production facility for shrimp and fish feed in Mangrol, Surat. The newly set up high-end facility is part of Skretting's commitment towards the Indian aquaculture sector and its strategy to further develop in Asia.

The facility was inaugurated on February 13, 2023, by Dr Sanjeev Balyan, Hon'ble Minister of State of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. Mr Michiel van Erkel, Agriculture Counsellor for India and Sri Lanka, Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was also present at the opening. Spread over an area of 20,000 sq mt and built with an investment of EUR 18.5 million, the facility will cater to both shrimp and fish cultures. The shrimp cultures will include white tiger and black tiger, while fish cultures will include Indian major carps, and high-value fish like snakehead, seabass, among others.

The Mangrol facility has three production lines with a production capacity of 50,000 metric tonnes per annum. It can produce both extruded/floating and pelleted/sinking feed as per the requirement of the species and customers. There is also adequate land and infrastructure available to increase the production capacity in the future.

'We are thrilled to announce the launch of our state-of-the-art production facility at Mangrol in Surat. We have been meeting the needs of shrimp hatcheries, nurseries, and farmers since 2018 in India, and supporting customers across feed-farm-health with our high-quality feed and services. The new facility enables us to contribute our bit to the prestigious Atmanirbhar Bharat – Make in India initiative, while simultaneously improving the efficiencies for a closer connect with our customers.  We will cater to the domestic market and also customers in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and The Middle East,' says Dr Saurabh Shekhar, General Manager – Nutreco South Asia.

'The factory is key to achieving our purpose of Feeding the Future in growth territories of Asia and India.  We already have plants in Vietnam, Japan, China, and Indonesia to strengthen our presence in Asia and establishing a state-of-the-art production facility at Mangrol, Surat reinforces our commitment to South Asia and Indian markets.  Construction of the factory started in September 2020, and the work was completed in just over two years despite the various challenges posed by the Covid pandemic. The facility has also generated local employment opportunities with 120 employees. This is just the beginning in our journey to gain a stronger foothold here,' says Mr Jurriën Zandbergen, Managing Director, Nutreco Asia.

Nutreco has both organic and inorganic growth plans to expand its footprints in South Asia, actively looking for companies that can support the purpose of Feeding the Future via NuFrontiers, its strategic innovation and investment department. Through NuFrontiers, Nutreco has invested strategically in start-ups globally, including  Internet of Things (IoT) enterprises such as Eruvaka and Stellapps.

'We strongly believe that innovation and digitalisation are the future for sustainable development in aquaculture. That is why we invest EUR 20 million annually on innovation looking for nutritional solutions to address the main challenges in the different regions in which we operate. At the same time, our digitally enabled solutions like AquaSim and Skretting 360+ have been responsible for improving production and transforming aquaculture industry in countries like Ecuador.  With this facility and our stronger footprints, we only aim to replicate some of these success stories in India as well,' says Ms Therese Log Bergjord, CEO Skretting.

For more information about Skretting visit the website, HERE.

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RASTECH 2023 Orlando takes a deep dive into RAS industry

Whether it's raising fish juveniles, smolt or full harvest size, the RASTech 2023 Conference and Trade Fair covers the latest developments, innovations, and research in land-based fish farming.

Scheduled to be held from April 20-23 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, in Florida, this year's event is made up of three tracks – Business, Operation and Research – that will allow attendees to delve deeper into the many facets of the recirculating aquaculture industry.

The Business track is geared towards those who are interested in learning more about what it takes to run a successful RAS business. The Operation track is about sharing technical knowledge used in a facility. The Research track brings together the latest studies that drive the industry's innovation and development. The schedule below is updated regularly to help attendees make the most out of their conference experience.

Top industry experts and executives of the world's leading aquaculture companies will be on-hand to discuss and share their experiences and knowledge. Day Three of the conference will involve a tour of the Evans Fish Farm. The 100-acre fish farm located in Pierson, Flo., is one of the first complete sturgeon aquaculture operations in the United States.

Among those lined-up as event speakers are: Sylvia Wulf, CEO and president of AquaBounty Technologies; Yonathan Zohar, project director of RAS-N & SAS2, and presidential professor and chair of marine biology at the University of Maryland; Siri Tømmerås, commercial director, land-based, at AKVA Group; Yoav Dagan, partner and vice president of business development at AquaMaof Technologies; Karl Øystein Øyehaug, CFO of Atlantic Sapphire; Chris Good, director of research at the Freshwater Institute; Tracy Navarro, president and general manager of Trader Hills Farm; and more.

"The RASTech Conference and Trade Fair is a one-stop-shop for the RAS community. This unique RAS event is a place for people to learn about the business, operations, and innovative research while networking with experts from around the world," says David Kuhn, event co-organiser and founding partner of Virginia Tech.

Day 1 Keynote will include insights on 'Lessons learned' from speakers Per Heggelund, consultant and investor owner of Nordic Partners LLC; Justin Henry, consultant at Henry Aquaculture Consult Inc., and chief technology officer of West Coast Salmon; Karl Øystein Øyhaug; and Sylvia Wulf.

Other sessions for this day will feature RASTech editor Jean Ko Din, who will moderate a series of sessions on "Creating a RAS Business Model;" Marianne Naess of Xcelerate Aqua discusses "Recruitment and talent management;" and Yonathan Zohar, will lead the RAS-N and SAS2 sessions.

On Day 2 Martin Gardner, president of Blue Ridge Aquaculture; Geno Evans, CEO of Evans Fish Farms; Eric Pederson, president and founder of Ideal Fish, will provide the keynote and speak on "The case for vertical integration."

Other speakers for this day include: Jaime Stein, co-founder of Devonian Capital, who heads off the Investors' Forum; Kathleen Hartman and Bill Keleher discuss Fish health and welfare; Dianne Fletcher, communications specialist for Kingfish Maine, speaks about How to Build a Brand; and Huy Tran, senior biologist and co-owner of Aquatic Equipment & Design, will talk about aquaponics.

"Our trade show has grown from 50 to 80 exhibitor booths this year reflecting a real appetite from industry suppliers wanting to play their part in this expanding segment of aquaculture. It's a great opportunity for attendees to check out all the latest RAS products and equipment options for their RAS project or existing operations. It's like a one-stop-shop for RAS," according to Jeremy Thain, RASTech associate publisher.

For more information about RASTECH visit the website, HERE.

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New leadership for Benchmark Genetics - Jan Emil Johannessen retires and is succeeded by Geir Olav Melingen

Head of Benchmark Genetics, Jan-Emil Johannessen, turning 63 years in April, has decided to retire after a lifelong involvement in the aquaculture industry. His successor, Geir Olav Melingen, currently Commercial Director Salmon at Benchmark, will take over the position on June 1, 2023, after a transition period.

Trond Williksen, CEO of Benchmark Holdings comments, "Under the leadership of Jan-Emil Johannessen, Benchmark's genetics business has become a world-leading aquaculture genetics company with a market-leading position in salmon. Over ten years at Benchmark, Jan-Emil has led the business through impressive growth, including the construction of our state-of-the-art facility in Salten, the expansion on Iceland, our recent establishment of Benchmark Genetics Chile as well as taking Benchmark Genetics into new species like shrimp and tilapia.  

"Jan-Emil has built a talented and experienced team capable of taking Benchmark Genetics through the next phase of growth, including his successor, Geir Olav Melingen, currently Commercial Director for Benchmark Salmon. Geir Olav has extensive experience from leading roles in the aquaculture industry, including at MSD as CEO of Fishguard and CEO of the Bergen Aquarium. He has deep experience in fish health and the salmon industry and is widely acknowledged as a strong leader. Geir Olav holds a Ph.D. in fish health from the University of Bergen.

"Geir Olav's background, coupled with his experience in Genetics and, more recently, in Health, make him the ideal person to further develop Benchmark Genetics worldwide. I look forward to Geir Olav joining Benchmarks' Executive Management Team and contributing to the wider leadership of our Group,' Mr Williksen ends.

Mr Johannessen comments, 'I am proud of the business that we have been able to build over the last 10 years since I joined Benchmark. I am confident that under the leadership of Geir Olav, Benchmark Genetics will continue to go from strength to strength.' 

For more information about Benchmark visit the website, HERE.

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Seagriculture Asia-Pacific held for the first time in virtual format

Seagriculture conference, as one of the leading conferences in the seaweed industry sector, is expanding and was organised online for the first time in the Asia-Pacific region on February 8 & 9. The conference welcomed 187 attendees from 113 companies and 31 countries worldwide.

Image credit: Jim Kelly on flickr
(CC BY 2.0)

Some 23 speakers presented their topics during a 2-day conference program, which included special features such as a virtual seaweed tour and a panel discussion on seaweed state of play  in Asia-Pacific. The first edition is mostly focused on seaweed farming in Asia-Pacific, as the region is the world's leading seaweed producer, which is expected to reach nearly $16 billion by 2029.

The first Asia-Pacific conference was held online, which allowed participants from all over the world to join these two days of the conference. The organisers will announce the dates for the next edition soon.  

Keynote speakers from FAO and Climate Foundation 
Keynote speakers Simon Funge-Smith, Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO) regional office for Asia and the Pacific, Thailand; and Brian Von Herzen, Climate Foundation, Australia, talked about the current production of seaweed in Asia, trade and social challenges, hurricane-proven offshore seaweed mariculture, deepwater irrigation, and climate disruptions. 

The organisers did their best on the program to fit only important and vital information from seaweed experts from the region. In the six session topics, ranging from smart farming technologies to seaweed nutriceuticals, some 20 experts explored the regional aspects of cultivation, processing, sales and business planning in kelp farming as well as technical trends and prospects for the future. Interactive discussions were an important part of all sessions over the two days. 

Session topic 1: Smart seaweed farming 
The first session discussed new trends in seaweed farming, mechanisation, new technologies and smart farming aspects. Shrikumar Suryanarayan from Sea6 Energy talked about farming tropical seaweed as a scalable and sustainable future industrial feedstock. Job Schipper from SWD Connectors presented scaling of the seaweed farms. Tran Dinh Luan, a General Director of D-Fish, shared his experience in important aspects of seaweed farming.

Session topic 2: Seaweed business/investment aspects 
The seaweed experts informed delegates about the business aspects of seaweeds. Paul Dobbins from World Wildlife Fund, Koji Yamamoto from Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), and Karlotta Rieve from Hatch Blue shared insights and ideas on new markets for a productive, scalable and responsible seaweed farming.  

Session topic 3: Panel discussion: Current situation of seaweed in Asia-Pacific 
During this online panel discussion moderated by Fionnuala Quin from Kelpy - Seaweed Biopackaging and three seaweed experts including Maya Puspita from SELT Alga Indonesia and Indonesian Seaweed Association (ARLI), Jo Kelly from Australian Seaweed Institute, and Dr CRK Reddy from Institute of Chemical Technology discussed various topics related to seaweeds to describe the seaweed state of play in this area. The themes that were covered are acquiring  cultivation permits, post-corona situation, and health aspects of seaweeds.  

Session topic 4: Seaweed breeding and disease aspects 
Experts shared their knowledge on breeding and disease aspects related to seaweed cultivation. Scott Lindell from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution talked about a selective breeding program to improve the productivity of sugar kelp, Nita Rukminasari from Universitas Hasanuddin discussed modeling of tropical seaweed cultivation, and Professor Michael Y. Roleda talked about current eucheumatoid research in the Philippines.  

Session topic 5: Seaweed applications 
Rob Kinley from Australian company FutureFeed presented evolution through the foundation story to the up-to-date status of Asparagopsis science. Jang K. Kim, a professor from Incheon National University, discussed the carbon dioxide removal (CDR) capacities of marine macroalgae and potential applications of macroalgal biomass with case studies in Korea. Pia  Winberg from PhycoHealth and Venus Shell Systems discussed the wide diversity of nutritional  profiles and biochemistry of seaweeds.  

Session topic 6: Virtual seaweed tour around the world 
Mitchell Lench, Founder of Ocean's Balance, US; Stephanie Debels, SEACROPS, Belgium, professor Alejandro Buschmann, Universidad de Los Lagos, Chile; Josh Castle, Aboitiz Reimagine, Philippines; and Jorunn Skjermo, SINTEF, Norway presented what their organisations are doing to improve seaweed production, propose possible ways of cooperation or  innovative solutions. 

Guest Speaker 
Scott Lindell, a Research Specialist from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, was a guest speaker at Asia-Pacific edition. Scott Lindell has already participated in Seagriculture and is a Gold Winner of Seagriculture USA 2022 Innovation Award. Scientist talked about seaweed farming and its expansion in the Gulf of Maine over the past decade. 

The new Seagriculture Asia-Pacific conference was closed by Professor Catriona Hurd, University of Tasmania, Australia and co-chair of the 24th International Seaweed Symposium.

Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director of DLG BENELUX stated, 'Seagriculture shows that it is a great and important way to bring people together to discuss important topics, receive insights, network with experts or enthusiasts who are only just starting with their seaweed activities. We are glad that we can expand the boundaries of our conference by making it global, and we are glad that the first edition was held in such a friendly and supportive atmosphere. We see that Asia-Pacific has a huge potential and we are committed to contribute to the development of the blue economy in this important region.'

Upcoming Seagriculture events: 

• Seagriculture EU, 21 – 22 June 2023, Trondheim, Norway 
• Seagriculture USA, 6 – 7 September 2023, Portland (ME), USA 
• Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2024 (the dates and time are going to be announced soon) 

For more information visit the website, HERE.

The Aquaculturists

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Fishing industry nets new funding to train the next generation

Innovative training programmes to attract new recruits and improve the quality of training in the fishing, seafood and aquaculture sectors have been awarded funding from the £100million UK Seafood Fund.

Image credit: Hervé Simon on flickr
(CC BY-SA 2.0)

Recognising industry concerns over an ageing fishing workforce and with the number of UK fishers having fallen by 1,700 over the past decade, it is now more important than ever to ensure entrants are equipped with the necessary skills to join the sector and understand the opportunities that are available to them.

Coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week and supporting the Prime Minister's priority to grow the economy and create better paid jobs, the seven projects include pilot courses at London's famous Billingsgate market covering technical skills such as the delivery, preparation and cooking of seafood; practical qualifications for manning fishing boats in Cornwall; right through to training for school leavers in Scotland going into the seafood industry.

A degree and higher level skills offer for aspiring managers in the seafood industry will also be developed by University of Lincoln, whilst in Grimsby training courses will be run to attract local people into the seafood sector.

Fisheries Minister Mark Spencer says, 'Our seafood and fishing sectors are a fundamental part of the UK's heritage as well as contributing to food security and our economy.

'The UK Government is funding opportunities from the quayside to the sales counter, suitable for young people as well as those changing careers.

'It is absolutely vital we invest in our workforce so these important industries prosper for generations to come.'

The projects awarded funding today will receive grants of up to £250,000 to fund the creation or redesign of pilot training courses, with over £1 million awarded overall. It comes as a second round of funding for skills and training is launched with up to £8 million made available to modernise training facilities and increase access to opportunities across the UK – applications are open until 12pm on April 21.

The pilot training courses in the first round aim to enhance technical skills and increase knowledge on sustainability, and ensure a high quality of training for existing workers, new entrants and young people into the sector. They also promote seafood career opportunities, raise awareness of the sector amongst young people and schoolchildren, and address access barriers commonly faced by remote coastal communities.

Professor Val Braybrooks, Dean at the National Centre for Food Manufacturing, University of Lincoln, says, ''We are delighted to have been awarded funds to adapt our successful food manufacturing higher and degree apprenticeship offer and develop new provision to meet the skills needs of Seafood Processing businesses. The new programmes will support the development of aspiring leaders in our sustainability led and rapidly changing sector and we look forward to collaborating with businesses and partners across the UK to fuel the talent pipeline.

'We are indebted to members of the Seafood Grimsby and Humber Alliance (SGHA) for their support in informing our plans and we now look forward to working together with the sectors' employers across the country, along with our educational partner the University of the Highlands and Islands in Shetland, to deliver this flagship skills scheme for the industry and unite our clusters and Seafood Processing communities through it'.'

Jane Lewis, Principal and Chief Executive of UHI Shetland, says, 'We are thrilled to have been successful with our bid to the UK Seafood Fund, which was prepared in close collaboration with UHI West Highland and our partners in the seafood sector.

'This project will be run through our new Centre for Sustainable Seafood and will act as a catalyst to help provide a sustainable workforce for a sustainable seafood sector. We are delighted that we can use this funding to continue to support the seafood sector, which is such a vital part of economy of the Highlands and Islands.

'Through our joint expertise in blended learning, we will also be able to widen access to reach potential students online no matter where they live.'

The £100 million UK Seafood Fund is a landmark government investment supporting the long-term future and sustainability of the UK fishing and seafood industry. Last month, the Government announced an initial £2 million investment to trial new, greener engines and help create a safer, more sustainable fishing fleet as part of the latest round of the infrastructure scheme.

In December last year, the Government also confirmed a further £30 million will be made available for infrastructure projects across the seafood supply chain. Businesses will have until March 2025 to deliver transformational projects that will upgrade ports, processing and aquaculture facilities so they are able to meet future demand while boosting jobs and economic growth.

The Aquaculturists

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