Feed trial shows efficacy of microencapsulated additives
Trout mortalities reduced by more than a quarter by phytogenics
A joint research initiative evaluating microencapsulated phytogenics for efficacy against Yersinia ruckeri - a major pathogen in rainbow trout farming - has produced encouraging results.
Italian animal biotechnology and microencapsulation specialist Vetagro collaborated with Canadian aquaculture contract research organisation Onda on the project.
To rigorously validate its proprietary feed additive formulations, Vetagro partnered with Prince Edward Island-based Onda, which has an extensive pathogen library and technical expertise in aquaculture disease models.
Key findings of the research on rainbow trout were:
- Two microencapsulated phytogenic feed prototypes demonstrated statistically significant reductions in mortality due to Yersinia ruckeri - by 26.3% and 29.3%, respectively, compared to control.
- Test feeds showed high acceptance rates among juvenile rainbow trout, confirming both palatability and application feasibility in commercial aquaculture systems.
The companies say the results reinforce the viability of precision-encapsulated phytogenics - substances of plant origin added to animal diets - as part of a proactive health management strategy for freshwater finfish producers. Microencapsulation protects sensitive phytogenic compounds until they reach their site of action, preserving their bioactivity and optimising dosage efficiency.
A strategic mission
Vetagro is headquartered in Reggio Emilia, northern Italy, but has a presence in Eastern Europe, the UK, Turkey, North America, Latin America, Africa, Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. It develops and supplies feed additives to ensure optimal health and nutrition for livestock, and has been using microencapsulation since 1982.
“Vetagro was founded by a group of professors with the strategic mission to transform scientific innovation into market-ready solutions,” said Ester Grilli, the company’s vice president and head of marketing and innovation. “Here we are now in 2025 putting science and experience in microencapsulation at the service of the aquaculture sector.”
Responsible care
Onda chief executive Myrna Gillis said: “We’re proud to have partnered with Vetagro on this forward-thinking research. It exemplifies how scientific collaboration drives innovation - translating cutting-edge research into practical solutions for aquaculture producers navigating growing sustainability and regulatory demands.”
The companies said the results of the research mark a critical advancement for natural, non-antibiotic feed additives in aquaculture. They said that as the industry continues to evolve, solutions like Vetagro’s microencapsulated phytogenics offer producers a scalable, environmentally responsible way to reduce dependency on antibiotics, align with consumer expectations, and maintain animal health and performance.
