ARTICLE 66 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE November 2024 “Traditionally, protein has been a critical component of aquafeeds. However, we recognized that simply increasing protein content was not the most efficient way to enhance fish growth and performance. Instead, our R&D scientists have utilized their knowledge across all species to develop Essential Nitrogen, which focuses on improving nitrogen utilization whilst maintaining or increasing performance.” The global population is increasing rapidly, with an expected addition of 2 billion people by 2050. Meeting the nutritional needs of this growing population will require a diverse range of protein sources. Seafood is already a vital component in addressing this demand. As we look toward the future of aquaculture, it becomes increasingly clear that innovative approaches to fish nutrition are vital for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship. At Cargill, we have been working to redefine salmon feed over a number of years, introducing new concepts that support farmers in optimizing performance, health, and cost-efficiency. A step-change in precision nutrition came in 2021 with the launch of Essential Nitrogen and has now evolved into Effective Energy. Building on expertise we developed in protein and energy nutrition, Essential Nitrogen has changed our approach to feed formulation. Traditionally, protein has been a critical component of aquafeeds. However, we recognized that simply increasing protein content was not the most efficient way to enhance fish growth and performance. Instead, our R&D scientists have utilized their knowledge across all species to develop Essential Nitrogen, which focuses on improving nitrogen utilization whilst maintaining or increasing performance. UNDERSTANDING NITROGEN COMPONENTS TO IMPROVE FEED PRECISION Essential Nitrogen involves partitioning total digestible nitrogen-containing nutrients into new nutritional entities, thus replacing traditional protein with new precisely calibrated nutrients. This innovation allowed us to develop an empirical nutrition physiology engine based on extensive trials. By doing so, we created a system that predicts fish performance more accurately, resulting in more precise protein formulations tailored to achieve specific performance targets. Over the past three years, millions of fish in different locations have been raised using this concept. From a salmon producer's perspective, this means a more cost-effective and efficient nutrition solution. Protein, being the most expensive component of the feed, is now utilized more effectively by the fish, reducing waste and improving growth. This Precision Nutrition: ADVANCING SALMON NUTRITION FROM ESSENTIAL NITROGEN TO EFFECTIVE ENERGY Christian De Santis Principal Scientist Lead Cargill Aqua Nutrition
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==