Work areas

Functional Feed

Functional feeds are defined as "those feeds that provide other benefits than those merely nutritional”.  The underlying concept of a functional feed is that of a feed or feed component(s), having the ability to contribute beneficially to fish body functions by way of improving the state of well-being and reducing the risk of disease. These definitions recognise the role of feed not only in fish development, growth and body maintenance, but also targeting fish well-being.

This added functionality can be achieved through:

• A special balance of standard components

• Increasing levels of individual standard components

• Addition of natural components, not normally present in feeds,
or through a combination of these approaches.

Consumer demand and scientific discovery have contributed to the proliferation of functional feeds and functional feed ingredients. The variety and availability of these products in fish industry are continuously increasing and EWOS Innovation has played a key role for the developments of them over the last 15 years.

In the past, feeds were recognised as being nutritious based on the content of essential nutrients; a combination of fat, protein, carbohydrate, minerals and vitamins being present to support normal metabolic activity and body function. However, a conscious choice of type, standard and origin of normal feed components e.g. fats, protein and carbohydrates, as well as their composition will be of considerable importance for extended functionality. By targeting the fish health and digestion status through raw ingredient selection and feed composition, added functionality can be achieved.

Now, biologically active components that impart health benefits or desirable physiological effects in feeds are sought. Examples of naturally occurring components not normally found in fish feeds but which may be obtained from external sources include yeast extracts in the form of nucleotides or glucans. Other relevant groups include organic acids, enzymes, anti-oxidants, prebiotics i.e. components positively influencing the intestinal bacterial flora and probiotics i.e. favourable bacterial flora. Components such as these from external sources may be considered as either feed components or as approved feed-additives.

EWOS functional feeds are designed to give an enhanced level of performance to fish throughout the production cycle. EWOS unique lifecycle approach provides sustainable products that significantly improve production efficiency in terms of growth and survival from hatchery to harvest.

EWOS functional feeds are available as either complete feeds (pancreas disease diet) or as modules within various EWOS national feed concepts (e.g. EWOS boost/boosterfeed; EWOS prebiosal, EWOS opal breed). For further information on products available please contact directly your local EWOS representative.