MARKET REPORT FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE February 2026 107 GLOBAL MARKET STATUS BY SPECIES The global fishmeal and fish oil market is among the primary sources of protein and fat used in animal feed. The market structure varies by animal species and is shaped by distinct usage profiles in aquaculture, poultry, swine, and other animal production systems. The current status and demand dynamics of the fishmeal and fish oil market by main animal species are discussed below: Aquaculture Aquaculture represents the largest global use of fishmeal and fish oil. Current sector data shows that the majority of fishmeal consumption occurs within the aquaculture sector. In this segment—which covers shrimp, salmon, trout, marine fish, and various freshwater species—demand is particularly concentrated in the Asia-Pacific region. Fishmeal and fish oil are preferred in aquafeeds due to their high protein content, balanced amino acid profile, and the advantages offered by Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These properties support growth performance, feed conversion ratios, and overall animal health. Consequently, the aquaculture segment remains the primary source of demand for the fishmeal and fish oil market. Poultry While the use of fishmeal and fish oil in poultry feed has a more limited share compared to aquaculture, it maintains its importance in specific applications. Fishmeal is utilized as a high-quality protein source, especially in starter periods, breeding flocks, and performance-oriented production systems. Fish oil is used in formulations aimed at producing Omega-3 enriched meat and eggs in poultry. However, cost pressures and the proliferation of plantbased alternatives keep usage rates controlled in this segment. Despite this, the poultry sector continues to be a stable demand area for fish meal and fish oil. Pig Fishmeal usage in pig farming has declined to more limited levels compared to previous years. The widespread use of vegetable protein sources and synthetic amino acids has reduced the share of fishmeal in this segment. Nevertheless, fishmeal is still preferred—particularly during the weaning period and in young animal nutrition—due to its high digestibility and amino acid balance. The use of fish oil remains more limited in pig nutrition. Overall, the swine segment is positioned as a shrinking but not entirely disappearing demand area. Ruminants The use of fishmeal and fish oil in the nutrition of ruminant animals remains quite limited globally. Rations for these animals primarily rely on roughage and vegetable protein sources. However, in certain production models—especially for high-yielding dairy cows and specialized feeding programs—fish oil may be used for its fatty acid profile and metabolic support. Fishmeal is utilized in some special cases as a bypass protein source. Nevertheless, this segment remains a niche area within the total market. Pets Pet food stands out as a segment where fishmeal and fish oil are increasingly gaining value. Particularly in premium cat and dog foods, fishmeal is used as a high-quality and digestible protein source. Fish oil is preferred for its Omega-3 content, which supports skin and coat health, the immune system, and joint functions. In addition, in specialized feed applications, fish meal and fish oil can also be evaluated for functionSource: Created by AI
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