Fish Meal

The fish meal industry plays a crucial role in the global economy as a key source of protein for various sectors, including aquaculture, livestock, and pet food.

Market Size

The market size of the fish meal industry has seen significant growth over the years, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality protein in animal feeds. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the global fish meal market was valued at billions of dollars, with projections for continued expansion. Developing regions, particularly Asia-Pacific and Latin America, have witnessed rising consumption due to the growth of aquaculture and livestock industries.

History

The fish meal industry has a long history, dating back to the 19th century. Initially, fish meal production was a byproduct of fish oil extraction. However, as the demand for protein-rich animal feeds increased, fish meal production became a standalone industry. In the early stages, fish processing waste was the primary source, but modern methods involve the utilization of whole fish, especially small, oily species like anchovies and sardines.

Different Grades of Fish Meal

Fish meal comes in various grades, each catering to specific nutritional requirements and applications:

1. Prime Fish Meal: This is the highest quality fish meal, made from whole fish, and it contains a high percentage of protein (typically above 60%). Prime fish meal is considered a premium ingredient in aquaculture and high-end animal feeds.
2. Standard Fish Meal: This grade is produced from a mix of whole fish and fish processing byproducts. It has a slightly lower protein content compared to prime fish meal but is still suitable for various animal feeds.
3. Industrial Fish Meal: This grade is often made from fish processing waste and is used in non-feed applications, such as fertilizers and organic soil amendments. It has a lower protein content compared to prime and standard fish meal.

The choice of grade depends on the specific nutritional needs of the target animals and the economic considerations of the end-user.

In conclusion, the fish meal industry is a vital component of the global food supply chain, providing a valuable source of protein for various animals. Its history, marked by evolving production methods, reflects its adaptability to meet the growing demand for protein-rich feeds in the agriculture and aquaculture sectors. The industry’s continued growth is anticipated as the world’s population increases, driving the need for sustainable and efficient protein sources in animal nutrition.

Production methods and price

In general, fish meal is categorized based on the freshness of the raw fish and the employed processing techniques: : Low Temperature (LT), Norsea Mink (NSM), and standard.

The production of LT meal involves a reduction in heating, with temperatures maintained at 70°C or lower in the dryer, as opposed to the conventional 90°C for Standard and NSM. There is a discernible price difference between these grades used in fish feeds, with an approximate 12% increase in cost for each improvement in quality.

The top-tier fish meal for fish feeds, LT, commands a price approximately 25% higher than standard fish meal and around 12% more than NSM. Anticipated changes in the types of fish meal used by the aquaculture industry suggest a shift towards increasing demand for high-quality marine products in aquaculture feeds.

Looking to Source Fish Meal?

The Nordic Fishmonger provides a range of services that make it easy to source and buy seafood products in the Nordics. Get in touch if you in the market for halibut.