Promising insect protein substitute for fishmeal

Tor-Eddie Fossbakk According to a company press release, the completion of Phase II trials represents the pivotal milestone in developing a viable dietary protein alternative in the USD 7 billion dollar market for fishmeal. Phase I selected four species of suitable insects based upon a myriad of key production and nutritional parameters. The industry has focused on vegetable-based alternatives. However, carnivorous fish does not digest these proteins well. Phase II trials proved that fish fed a diet containing Ento-Protein(TM) actually tasted better than those fed fishmeal. The final trial, Phase III, will select the proper blend of insects to achieve the fastest growth rate and optimum digestibility in farm raised fish. The company anticipates completing the Phase III trial in the first quarter of 2008, constructing its first pilot production facility, and bringing product to market by the end of the year. The Phase II trials compared juvenile hybrid striped bass fed on a typical fishmeal-based diet, with those fed with Neptune's Ento-Protein(TM), consisting of 100% of the fishmeal portion of their diet. Phase II trial results indicated that the fish fed with Ento-Protein(TM) did not change their behavioral patterns. A panel of sensory experts that evaluated the trials indicated that they favored the fish fed with Ento-Protein(TM) over those fish fed with traditional fishmeal. Ento-Protein(TM) is a patent-pending high protein fishmeal derived from the controlled, mass production of select insect species, for use in fish and livestock diets. The percentage of fishmeal used in fish feed has declined due to a steady rise in price. According to a key report by Pike and Barlow the market for fish feed is expect to grow from 19.5 million metric tons in 2003 to 37.2 million metric tons in 2010. This market could widen substantially, with the addition of a sustainable, high protein alternative such as Ento- Protein(TM). Neptune Industries has been involved in a cooperative research relationship with Mississippi State University since January 2007. Phase II trials were a collaborative effort between the Departments of Entomology, Wildlife and Fisheries, and Food Science and Technology. About Neptune Industries: Based in Boca Raton, Florida, Neptune Industries, Inc. has developed a scalable, modular aquaculture technology called Aqua-Sphere(TM) and Aqua- Cell(TM) that successfully address the environmental concerns of most aquaculture operations by controlling and recycling all waste products, while insuring the production of the highest quality fish at an affordable price. The company currently operates the Blue Heron Aqua Farms in Florida City, FL and is a leading producer of hybrid striped bass, which it markets internationally as Everglades Striped Bass(TM). The company's current production at its Blue Heron farm, and future production with Aqua-Sphere(TM) System technology intend to target the organic market as soon as organic certification of farm-raised seafood becomes available.