A recent examination conducted by the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) has affirmed the nutritional suitability of Enifer’s innovative PEKILO®Aqua mycoprotein in the diet of farmed salmon. Encouraged by the positive findings, Enifer now plans to broaden the use of its PEKILO mycoprotein solution, extending beyond aquaculture to include pet food and, eventually, human consumption.
Under the leadership of Professor Margareth Øverland, the NMBU study, supported by Foods of Norway and the NORDICFEED project, revealed that young salmon raised in freshwater and fed Enifer’s PEKILOAqua mycoprotein experienced noteworthy improvements in their immune system activation and growth compared to traditional aquafeed.
Key discoveries from the study include:
- Substituting up to 20% of crude protein in aquafeed with PEKILOAqua resulted in improved feed conversion ratio and enhanced nutrient utilization.
- Even a minimal inclusion of 5% PEKILOAqua triggered robust T-cell and immunity responses, alongside increased antimicrobial activity. Higher inclusion levels, ranging from 10% to 20%, showcased additional health benefits.
- Elevated production of antibodies against the bacterial pathogen Vibrio anguillarum.
Joosu Kuivanen, Chief Operating Officer at Enifer, emphasized the distinctive composition of PEKILOAqua, attributing the observed health and growth benefits to its unique properties compared to conventional proteins like soya.
Enifer’s sustainable production of the mycoprotein relies on byproducts from the agriculture, food, and forest industries, delivering environmental advantages with a reduced carbon footprint and no requirement for new agricultural land.
Containing about 65% protein, 15% beta-glucan, 10% fats and minerals, and enriched with vitamin B, PEKILO mycoprotein effectively addresses the rising demand for top-tier aquafeed. Enifer’s ambition is to enhance the sustainability of the aquaculture sector by mitigating the environmental impact of supply chains and fostering better conditions for fish growth.
Simo Ellilä, Chief Executive Officer of Enifer, stressed the potential for comprehensive sustainability improvements across the industry by lessening the environmental impact in aquafeed supply chains. Enifer envisions expanding the applications of its mycoprotein solution, extending to pet food and, eventually, meeting the dietary needs of humans.
In light of escalating consumer demands for fish and fish-related products, Enifer’s forward-thinking approach aims to contribute substantively to meeting these demands sustainably.
