Margunn Sandstad, head of fish health, and Martin Davidsen, product manager for cleaner fish at Skretting, launched a new cleaner fish food on Wednesday at their booth during aquaculture show Aqua Nor in Trondheim. Photo: Therese Soltveit.

New food launched for cleaner fish

Feed producer Skretting has launched CLEAN, a product specifically for cleaner fish, at this week's Aqua Nor trade show in Trondheim.

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The development of the feed was started two years ago, and the products have been tested both commercially and in controlled experiments. Margunn Sandstad, head of fish health at Skretting, told kyst.no that cleaner fish feed has been demanded by customers, pointing out that they have so far had good feedback from customers who have tested it.

"After the official launch here at Aqua Nor we are now going to start the business of selling the newly developed feed," she said.

While sales of feed used at sea has been going on for some months, sales of products for use on land commence next week.

"It is important that cleaner fish feed has a recognisable taste, both on land and at sea," said Martin Davidsen, head of production for cleaner fish at Skretting.

Customised nutrition

The feed is designed to ensure optimal nutrition and better growth for cleaner fish, so that they remain effective lice eaters. Cleaner fish have their own nutritional requirements, which means the products have a slightly different nutrient content than regular feed.

The new feed is low in fat and high in protein, and boosts the immune system, which contributes to the general health of the fish. In addition, Skretting says it is ensured the cleaner fish achieve better mucus health, which is important for improved handling.