Australia’s flourishing aquaculture industry, generating over $2 billion in seafood annually, is witnessing a transformative evolution fuelled by innovative practices in fish food manufacturing. The ASX-listed Ridley Corporation, a major player in this sector, operates multiple feed mills across the country and has been at the forefront of adapting to the changing landscape over the past two decades.
Richard Smullen, a veteran in Ridley’s Aquafeed operations, recalls the initial days when fish diets predominantly consisted of fishmeal, fish oil, wheat, and basic nutrients. However, as the industry evolved, so did the raw materials employed in fish food. Smullen notes that Ridley, a significant purchaser of grain in Australia, now utilizes a diverse array of materials, closely monitoring commodity prices for their production of around two million tonnes of feed annually for various livestock animals, including fish, dogs, and even laboratory rats.
Ridley’s annual report highlights the company’s strides in reducing “forage marine ingredients” in its products, adopting more sustainable alternatives like chicken protein concentrate. Dr. Smullen emphasizes the tailored approach to fish pellet composition, acknowledging the specific dietary needs of different fish species. For instance, a high-fat diet is crucial for salmon, and Ridley incorporates vegetable oil or poultry oil in their pellets to meet the energy requirements of these fish.
Australia, although perceived as lagging behind the global trends, has started catching up, with companies now cultivating black soldier flies to meet the nutritional needs of barramundi and prawns. In collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Ridley has introduced Novacq, a novel feed for prawns. The nation’s largest barramundi farm, home to approximately five million fish, has significantly contributed to the increased demand for specialized fish feed.
However, the industry’s growth comes with its challenges. Dan Richards, from Humpty Doo Barramundi, notes that the expansion of their barramundi farm has attracted thousands of birds, posing a threat to the fish feed supply. Despite employing various deterrents, the issue persists, indicating the need for innovative solutions to safeguard the production process.
The dynamic changes in Australia’s aquaculture industry underscore its potential for further growth and sustainability. With ongoing research, partnerships, and a commitment to environmentally friendly practices, the nation aims to reduce dependence on imported seafood, fulfilling the appetite of the local market and contributing to the global aquaculture landscape.
