ISSUE FOCUS 62 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE August 2025 Embedding RNA tools in feed delivers several game-changing advantages: • Convenient and scalable application: Farmers can administer health interventions using existing infrastructure without altering standard operating procedures. • Improved biosecurity: Feed-based delivery reduces the risk of contamination and minimizes handling stress for animals. • System-wide impact: Functional feeds can be distributed uniformly, providing consistent protection across large pond systems. REAL-WORLD BENEFITS AND MEASURABLE IMPACT Results from ViAqua’s trials and laboratory studies have been highly encouraging. In controlled environments, RNA-treated animals consistently exhibit improved survival rates during viral exposure. Moreover, treated shrimp demonstrate better growth performance and feed conversion ratios, indicating that these tools not only mitigate disease but also support overall animal health and farm profitability. As scalability improves, the cost-effectiveness of RNA-based interventions continues to grow. Manufacturing processes have been optimized to support commercial-scale production, and distribution via standard feed channels further lowers logistical barriers. As a result, these innovations are rapidly moving from research to real-world deployment. THE ROAD TO INDUSTRY ADOPTION The future of RNA tools in aquaculture is promising, but successful adoption depends on several key factors: • Stakeholder Education: Farmers, feed formulators, and farm health specialists must understand how RNAi works, its benefits and how to integrate it confidently into operations. • Demonstrated Consistency: RNA tools must perform reliably across varied geographies, pond conditions, and shrimp life stages to gain broad market acceptance. • Collaborative Ecosystem: Strong partnerships between biotech innovators like ViAqua, feed manufacturers, farmers, and regulators are essential to streamline approvals and ensure alignment with industry standards. A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO DISEASE PREVENTION It’s important to recognize that RNA-based aquaculture tools are not a silver bullet. Instead, they are a critical part of a broader, integrated health strategy that includes early pathogen detection, biosecurity infrastructure and environmental monitoring. By shifting the industry mindset from reactive treatment to proactive prevention, RNA technologies empower aquaculture stakeholders to manage disease more effectively and sustainably. This paradigm shift promises to reduce economic volatility, enhance food security, and foster a more resilient aquaculture sector. ENABLING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE ViAqua envisions a future where aquaculture thrives because of proactive innovations that neutralize disease risks before they manifest. Through its RNA platform, ViAqua is unlocking new possibilities, where shrimp farming is not only more productive and profitable but also more responsible and resilient. As the world looks to aquaculture to feed a growing population, the ability to sustainably manage disease will be central to the industry’s success. RNA-based solutions, like those developed by ViAqua, are more than just scientific breakthroughs, they are strategic enablers for the future of aquaculture. shutterstock | 2192481073
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