Result description
The global demand for high-quality, protein-rich aquaculture feed continues to increase. Sourcing sustainable, renewable protein is a key challenge; alternative protein sources are needed for food security. Further, there is a need to determine which incumbent proteins (e.g., animal protein, plant protein) are suitable for replacement by alternative counterparts. Single cell protein (SCP) products have the potential to fulfil this need. Lignocellulosic biomass is the most abundant, renewable carbon source that can be used to produce proteins. Therefore, one of the more promising alternative proteins is a single-cell protein (SCP) cultivated on hydrolysed lignocellulosic biomass. There is limited knowledge on the use of SCP in aquaculture. The main objectives of this work were to determine the nutrient digestibility of yeast SCP cultivated on wood and to determine its efficacy in replacing animal and terrestrial plant proteins in a feed formulation for rainbow trout.
The results indicate that SCP has equivalent protein digestibility to fishmeal, superior digestibility to plant proteins, but lower dry matter and energy digestibility. The dose-response trial indicated that SCP may replace either fishmeal or plant proteins and make up to 20% of the entire diet of the fish. No significant differences were observed for hepatosomatic index and viscerosomatic index across treatments. No statistical differences were observed relating to growth performance between any diet containing SCP and the fishmeal reference diet. Evidence of immune stimulation was observed with the inclusion of SCP, and the effects were more pronounced in the plant-based diets. Results indicate that SCP is suitable for the replacement of fishmeal in the diets of Rainbow trout in terms of nutrient digestibility and growth performance. Better performance was observed in plant-based diets devoid of fishmeal when SCP was included. These results contribute to the broader understanding of SCP as an alternative protein source for aquafeeds.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- Business partners – SMEs, Entrepreneurs, Large Corporations
- Investor introductions
We are searching to scale up the process, so we are particularly interested in industrial partners.
- Public or private funding institutions
- Other Actors who can help us fulfil our market potential
- Private Investors
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
This result has been expanded further and has been uptaken by the EU-funded project SylPlant that includes along the value chain including Biomar, La Normandise, and Agromousquetaires.
The business model is scalable, with a strategic initial entry into smaller-volume markets, such as human food. This sector, characterized by its fragmented nature, inherently requires smaller quantities and offers higher margins. These margins serve to mitigate risk during the capacity-building phase required for larger industries like aquaculture.
The feedstock is built on its flexibility, so a plant can be constructed basically anywhere in the world. Additionally, the product quality is also replicable and fit across multiple markets.
The product’s adaptable feedstock sourcing provides a crucial safeguard, enabling to switch to alternative materials and maintain production, even amidst global disruptions. This is key to its long-term sustainability.
- Europe
- Global
- North America
Result submitted to Horizon Results Platform by INRAE TRANSFERT SAS
