From development to industrial realization of fermentation-based feed ingredients

The ingredient, which is a mycoprotein, has been tested in several feeding trials with salmon and trout and has shown good digestibility, comparable growth, and efficient feed utilization. Previous trials have documented that mycoproteins function as a nutritionally relevant raw material in fish feed. Trials have also been conducted by NMBU documenting a positive effect on, among other things, the incidence of winter ulcers in salmon.

BIO3 is now continuing to work on documentation under commercial marine conditions throughout a full production cycle.

The ingredient contains high-quality protein with naturally occurring functional components that support immune function, gut health, cell renewal, and stress response, among other benefits.

Mycoprotein naturally contains cell wall components such as β-glucans and MOS-like compounds, as well as bioactive metabolites like nucleotides and spermidine.

Traditionally, base feed and functional health products have played different roles in salmon production. Health-promoting components are often used through specialized feed or separate additives during periods of increased stress, such as during handling, vaccination, disease risk, or other challenges.

BIO3's goal is for these functional components to be included as a continuous part of the base feed throughout the entire production cycle—thereby contributing to a more robust base feed.

BIO3 is being established at NorSea Atlantic in Averøy and is designed as an integral part of a larger industrial ecosystem where energy and side streams can be utilized across different businesses. Excess heat can be incorporated into a local energy system, while organic side streams can be further utilized by other companies in the area.

The goal is high resource utilization, a lower overall environmental footprint, and a more robust Norwegian feed value chain based on circularity. Increased national production of feed ingredients can simultaneously reduce import dependency and strengthen supply security.