[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition and biotechnology, has released its 2025 Agri-Food Outlook, a report that includes the results of the company’s 14^th annual global feed production survey. The publication shows that global feed production rebounded in 2024 after a stagnant 2023, increasing from 1.380 billion metric tons (mt) (+1.2%) to 1.396 billion mt. This growth — which was achieved despite challenges that included highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), climate fluctuations and economic uncertainty — underscores the resilience and adaptability of the international agriculture industry.

The annual survey that serves as the foundation of the Agri-Food Outlook collected data from 142 countries and 28,235 feed mills in 2024. By analyzing compound feed production and prices — collected by Alltech’s global sales team and in partnership with feed associations and official data-collecting organizations — the survey provides a comprehensive snapshot of global feed production. These insights serve as a barometer for the overall livestock industry, highlighting key trends across species, regional challenges and opportunities for growth.

Top 10 countries:

The top 10 feed-producing countries in 2024 were China (which produced 315.030 million mt of feed, down 2.03% from 2023), the U.S. (269.620 million mt; +0.68%), Brazil (86.636 million mt; +2.43%), India (55.243 million mt; +4.56%), Mexico (41.401 million mt; +1.38%), Russia (38.481 million mt; +8.53%), Spain (35.972 million mt; +1.46%), Vietnam (25.850 million mt; +3.41%), Türkiye (24.502 million mt; +4.83%) and Japan (24.297 million mt; +0.14%). Together, the top 10 countries produced 65.6% of the world’s feed — and 52% of all global feed production was concentrated in just four countries: China, the U.S., Brazil and India.

Notable results and future outlook by species:

• Poultry feed experienced an increase in production, both for broilers (385.415 million mt; +1.8%) and layers (173.038 million mt; +1.4%).
  • Broiler feed remains the largest species segment, accounting for 27.6% of the total feed tonnage in the world. As a “budget-friendly” protein option, the broiler industry benefits from surges in red meat prices. Affordability drove demand in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, while rising incomes boosted growth in Africa. While HPAI was a persistent issue for poultry production, broiler feed volumes are positioned to continue on a path toward moderate growth this year because of broiler meat’s affordability and export opportunities.
  • For layers, the slow 1.4% growth rate reflected the challenges facing the industry, including the disruptions by avian influenza and oversupply in some regions. Disease challenges led to North America experiencing the steepest decline in production due to flock reductions. Layer production was able to maintain a positive global growth rate, however, due to volume gains in Asia-Pacific — where consumers are favoring eggs as a cheaper protein option — and healthy demand in Latin America and Africa. While the threat of HPAI continues to loom in various regions, the development of vaccines and improved biosecurity measures could help mitigate losses and keep the global layer sector on an upward trajectory.
• Global pig feed production experienced a loss in 2024 of 0.6%, leading to a decreased total of 369.293 million mt. Growth in the European, Latin American and North American pork segments was counterbalanced by downturns in Africa and the Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Oceania. These trends were partly dictated by how well producers in each region continued to recover from outbreaks of African swine fever (ASF), with export demand allowing Europe and Latin America to reclaim lost ground. Survey respondents were divided in their outlook for pig feed production, which recorded the highest amount of pessimism among all feed segments. Proper disease management and stabilized feed costs will be critical for the pig feed sector to achieve growth worldwide.
• Dairy feed tonnage increased by 3.2%, to 165.500 million mt, due to robust consumer demand, favorable milk prices and a shift toward more intensive farming practices, with Asia-Pacific, Europe, Africa and Latin America all displaying growth. While dairy feed production remained stable in North America, Oceania’s reliance on abundant pasture led to a slight dip in its feed tonnage. Despite challenges that ranged from disease pressures to volatile weather conditions, the global dairy sector continues to exhibit strong resilience and growth potential. The modernization and intensification of production and higher milk yields are expected to foster further increases — but lower farmgate prices in China could limit global gains overall.
• Beef feed tonnage rose from 131.6 million mt in 2023 to 134.1 million mt in 2024, reflecting a global increase of 1.8%. North America, Latin America, Africa, Europe and Oceania all recorded gains thanks to a rise in demand for beef exports due to tight supply elsewhere around the world. Additionally, scarce forages in parts of North America, Latin America and Australia drove cattle producers to rely more heavily on commercial feeds. The decline in beef feed tonnage seen in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East was attributed to oversupply and lower prices.
• Global feed production for the aquaculture sector declined slightly, by 1.1%, in 2024 to 52.966 million mt, continuing a downward trend for the sector that first emerged in 2023. This statistic, however, conceals considerable regional divergence, including gains in Latin America, Africa and Europe. Unfortunately, the considerable decreases in Asia-Pacific and North America due to disease challenges, extreme weather events, cost pressures and low market prices weighed down the entire sector. Looking ahead, aquaculture is positioned to strengthen slowly, but this recovery will likely remain uneven across regions. Potential rebounds in shrimp and finfish production in Asia-Pacific will depend on stabilized prices and biosecurity improvements. Latin America and Africa could continue their upward trajectories, and momentum around alternative feed ingredients in Europe is expected to pick up steam as regulatory frameworks and consumer demand increasingly emphasize sustainability.
• Pet feed tonnage increased by 4.5% to 37.692 million mt in 2024, fueled by continued trends toward premiumization (including functional diets and the “humanization” of pets), expanded pet ownership and continued innovation in the sector’s product offerings. While the increase in pet food production appears to have slowed somewhat last year, it still remains one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. Africa saw the largest percentage jump (of 60%), albeit from a low baseline, and Asia-Pacific’s double-digit gains underscore the surge in pet adoption and premium diets in developing regions.
• Equine feed tonnage increased by 2.3% to 9.630 million mt. This growth was driven by premiumization trends and rising interest in nutrition-focused care among horse owners, as well as growing participation in equestrian activities and the widely improving availability of specialized feeds. Looking forward, however, the sector faces declining populations and high feed costs.

Notable regional results:

• Asia-Pacific (533.1 million mt): Feed production was down slightly in the region (by 0.8%), but Asia-Pacific remained the largest producer of feed overall. This decrease was largely due to headwinds in China as well as ongoing weather extremes, oversupply and cheap feed alternatives that hampered expansion.
• North America (290.7 million mt): The second-largest feed producing region saw a modest increase (0.6%) across beef, poultry and pork that was offset by the impacts of HPAI (in layers and turkeys) and stagnant aquaculture production.
• Latin America (198.4 million mt): This region experienced solid gains driven by robust demand for poultry, pork and beef, as well as favorable export markets. Overall, feed production in Latin America increased by 3.6%.
• Europe (267.8 million mt): Rebounds in pig, beef and aquaculture feed led to a 2.7% increase in Europe’s total feed production, but structural constraints — including sustainability policies and diminishing herds — will temper future expansion.
• Africa and the Middle East (95.5 million mt): This region had the strongest percentage growth (of 5.4%) around the world in 2024, but it was also starting from a smaller base than other regions. This growth reflects expanding commercial feeds in the poultry, ruminant and pet sectors. Stable growth in poultry and beef in the Middle East, however, has been tempered by water scarcity and import costs.
• Oceania (11.0 million mt): Gains in beef and aquaculture from low baselines led to an increase of 2.5% in Oceania’s overall feed production. Feedlot usage is high in Australia, but New Zealand’s herd declines constrain further growth.

The compound feed production totals and prices reported in the 2025 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook were collected in the first quarter of 2025 with assistance from feed mills and industry and government entities around the world. These figures are estimates and are intended to serve as an informative resource for industry stakeholders.

To access more data and insights from the 2025 Alltech Agri-Food Outlook, including an interactive global map, visit alltech.com/agri-food-outlook.

*The figures used in Alltech’s Agri-Food Outlook are updated throughout the year as official feed tonnage information becomes available. Our 2023 data has been adjusted to reflect final figures.

[HELMOND, Netherlands] – Alltech Coppens, a global specialist in developing and producing high-quality, innovative nutritional solutions for fish, has published its 2024 Sustainability Report. This report offers an overview of the company’s commitment to sustainability and demonstrates Alltech Coppens’ mission of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, as well as its journey to help improve the health and performance of people, animals and plants through nutrition and scientific innovation.

Through the careful management of resources, as well as its scientific research and partnerships with customers, Alltech Coppens is contributing to a more sustainable aquaculture industry. The 2024 Alltech Coppens Sustainability Report highlights how the company is researching, developing and commercialising better alternatives and working with partners around the world to spearhead sustainable developments.

“We at Alltech Coppens feel a strong responsibility to sustainability,” said Ronald Faber, CEO of Alltech Coppens and global aqua lead for Alltech. “Our mission is clear: to produce fish feeds responsibly to support safe food production while conserving our natural resources. We are dedicated to continuing our efforts in this journey towards an environmentally sustainable and ethical world.”

“Sustainability is not a checkbox for us,” echoed Guido Crolla, manager of procurement, sustainability and IT at Alltech Coppens. “It's embedded in every decision we make, from raw material selection to the way we power our research centre. Our goal is to continuously reduce our environmental footprint while helping our customers do the same.”

The 2024 Alltech Coppens Sustainability Report offers numerous insights, including these noteworthy highlights:

• In 2024, 54.5% of all raw materials used by Alltech Coppens could be categorized as circular and restorative raw materials, based on the definition provided in the EU Waste Framework Directive.
• The company decreased the usage of residual waste in its operations by 14% in 2024 compared to 2023.
• Upon being assessed by EcoVadis, Alltech Coppens was awarded a Platinum medal and a score of 99 — indicating that the score the company received is higher than or equal to 99% of all other companies rated by EcoVadis. This recognition is a testament to Alltech Coppens’ commitment and dedication to environmentally friendly and socially responsible business practices.
• The Alltech Coppens Aqua Centre for Research and Development (ACAC) achieved a major milestone at the end of 2024 with the installation of 621 solar panels that, altogether, can produce 251.51 kilowatt-peak power (kWp), a measure of the maximum electrical power this solar panel system can produce under standard test conditions. This, combined with the company’s electricity contract for renewable energy, has made the electric operations at the ACAC completely green.
• In 2024, the carbon footprint of Alltech Coppens feeds measured an average of 1,009 tons of CO₂-equivalent per ton of feed. This represents a reduction from the 2021 base year of 0.099 CO₂-e per ton (9.7%). To break that total down further, 0.053 tons of the CO₂-e per ton of feed (5.2%) came from Scope 1 emissions, while Scope 2 emissions represented 0.028 tons of CO₂-e per ton of feed (2.8%). Scope 3 emissions made up the largest portion (92%), with 0.928 tons of CO₂-e per ton of feed. For reference, Scope 1 and 2 emissions are related to energy, water and waste, while Scope 3 emissions are related to raw feed materials.

Despite these many achievements, the Alltech Coppens team is not resting on its laurels and intends to make more progress in 2025.

“Achieving the EcoVadis Platinum medal is a proud moment, but it’s also a motivator,” said Crolla. “It reminds us that excellence in sustainability is a journey, and we’re just getting started.”

“Our commitment is evident in our actions: reducing emissions, enhancing transparency and developing efficient feeds suitable for the diverse production systems of our customers,” added Faber. “We also acknowledge that our current sustainability practices are just the beginning. We continue to search for new approaches to drive positive change, committing to Alltech’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®.”

As part of its mission to protect the sustainability of the planet while supplying nutritious food for the world's population, global animal health and nutrition company Alltech — the parent company of Alltech Coppens — is committed to nine of to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a specialist in fish feed, Alltech Coppens has prioritised the SDGs of Life Below Water, Climate Action and Quality Education. 

For more information, read the Alltech Coppens 2024 Sustainability Report here and visit AlltechCoppens.com.

Applications are now open for the 2025 Expana’s Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech is proud to continue to partner with Expana’s Women in Food & Agriculture (WFA) Mentorship Program.  Applications are now open for new mentors of any gender and for female mentees from across the global food and agriculture sector. Since its launch in 2021, WFA has successfully matched more than 1,500 professionals, creating meaningful relationships that foster career growth and leadership development in the food and agriculture sectors. The free-to-join program is dedicated to supporting women across the global food and agriculture sector by providing invaluable mentorship opportunities and has proven to be a beacon of support for women seeking guidance, advice and networking opportunities in their careers.

The initiative not only empowers women at various career stages but also addresses the critical shortage of mentors across the industry, a known barrier to career progression. This growing initiative encourages individuals with a range of experience and backgrounds to apply to be a mentor, helping to address this sector-wide challenge.

Elisabeth Mork-Eidem, Global Chair of WFA, commented: "Each year, we see the extraordinary impact that mentorship can have, not just on individual careers but across organizations. This programme is a key part of our WFA mission to ensure women in agrifood are empowered, supported, and heard."

Patrick Charlton, Vice President of Europe at Alltech and a former mentor in the program, added: "Mentorship is not a one-way street- it’s a collaborative journey that benefits both mentor and mentee. Everyone who takes part finds it incredibly rewarding. There are talented women out there looking to grow their careers; they simply need guidance and support. You can be part of that change."

Alltech believes that inclusion cultivates creativity, drives innovation and is essential to the company’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^TM. In 2019, Alltech selected Gender Equality as one of the nine United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to which the company committed to advancing.

Applications are now open for the 2025 WFA Mentorship Program, supported by Alltech, to individuals seeking mentorship as well as industry professionals interested in offering their mentorship services. The program welcomes applications from across the global food and agriculture sector, and applicants will be personally matched based on their preferences and professional objectives. For more information and to apply to be a mentor or mentee, visit https://wfa-initiative.com/.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] Alltech, a leading global animal nutrition company, has been awarded four new medals from EcoVadis, a globally recognized provider of business sustainability assessments. These medals are a testament to Alltech’s purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^® and the company’s commitment implementing environmentally and economically sustainable solutions, fostering ethical business conduct, and prioritizing the efficient production of nutritious food.

EcoVadis evaluates companies across 21 sustainability criteria within four core themes: environment, labor and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. Its ratings are based on international sustainability standards, including the Ten Principles of the United Nations Global Compact, the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards and the ISO 26000 guidelines. More than 130,000 companies have been rated by EcoVadis.

Two Alltech facilities earned Platinum Medals, placing them in the top 1% of the more than 200,000 businesses assessed by EcoVadis:

• Alltech Coppens in the Netherlands, which develops and produces high-quality, innovative fish feed and nutritional solutions
• Alltech’s Woolfox manufacturing facility in the United Kingdom

In addition, Alltech’s global operations and its manufacturing facility in Serdán, Mexico, earned EcoVadis Silver Medals, ranking them in the top 15% of businesses assessed.

“Three years ago, Alltech outlined a strategic vision for our ESG ambitions with a focus on proof points and team confidence. Over that time, we’ve expanded our policies, introduced new systems, conducted training and taken a lot of action,” said Tara McCarthy, Alltech’s global vice president of ESG. “It gives a great sense of achievement to the entire Alltech team to see that EcoVadis has recognized these efforts. Our ambition to build upon this proof remains strong, with five more assessments planned this year. Our commitment to embed best practice is unwavering as we carry out our purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty.”

The EcoVadis process validates Alltech’s sustainability performance and offers a clear roadmap for enhancing its impact.

Alltech continues to reach for ambitious ESG targets, find areas for improvement and innovation, and strive to nurture a culture of sustainability,” McCarthy said. “We have made great progress, but we know that there is always more work to be done.”

The company’s commitment to demonstrating its credentials in the global supply chain continues around the world as several additional locations prepare for EcoVadis assessments, including the Alltech European Bioscience Centre in Dunboyne, Ireland, which submitted its assessment this week.

Each year, Alltech shares its progress in the Alltech Sustainability Report, which outlines actions taken to align the business with its commitments to the United Nations Global Compact, the U.N. Ten Principles and the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals. Learn more by reading the most recent report at alltech.com/sustainability.

For more information, visit Alltech.com.

[BANGKOK, Thailand] – Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition, has released the results of the Alltech 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis. Now in its 4^th edition, this report provides Asian feed and livestock producers with the insights needed to optimize nutritional strategies in the coming months. It uses data from the Alltech 2024 Harvest Analysis programs carried out across Europe and North America.

“The 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis discloses significant diversity in crop quality and mycotoxin risk across the key grain-growing regions globally,” said Nick Adams, commercial director at Alltech. “Contrasting weather conditions in Europe are resulting in a distinct difference in mycotoxin profiles between grains harvested in Southern and Northern Europe. In the U.S., pre-harvest rains have created Fusarium challenges, with deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone and fumonisins presenting the greatest risk. These findings illustrate the importance of understanding the mycotoxin landscape when purchasing raw materials and taking a proactive approach to countering these quality challenges.”

Key themes identified from the 2024 harvest, by region:

Europe: There is a distinct difference in mycotoxin profiles between grains harvested in Southern and Northern Europe. Deoxynivalenol (DON) presents the greatest challenge in northern countries, while aflatoxin dominates in corn originating in southern regions.

U.S.: Rains pre-harvest created Fusarium challenges in the U.S., with DON, zearalenone and fumonisins presenting the greatest risk. The rains were followed by a very dry harvest, resulting in more damaged kernels and a greater percentage of foreign matter. This may present subsequent storage and shipping issues.

Canada: Fusarium toxins dominated in wheat and barley samples. Although generally, a lower risk was seen compared to the previous harvest, many individual samples contained elevated levels of mycotoxins, emphasizing the importance of routine raw material testing.

Brazil: Similar to the previous harvest, aflatoxin, DON, fumonisins and zearalenone were the primary mycotoxins of interest in Brazilian sampling programs. The average concentrations of some of the Fusarium toxins would pose high levels of risk for pigs in particular.

The report also contains risk assessments for individual species, such as broilers, grow-finish pigs and dairy cows.

For more information and to view the full results of the Alltech 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis, visit Alltech 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis.

[BANGKOK, Thailand] – Alltech, a global leader in animal nutrition, will participate in VIV Asia 2025, March 12–14 at IMPACT in Bangkok, Thailand. With a focus on promoting sustainable food production, Alltech will highlight innovative solutions that enhance profitability, animal health, and environmental sustainability across the agri-food value chain.

The global team of Alltech experts will be at Booth #3410, Hall 2. For producers, suppliers and industry professionals, the Alltech booth will offer a unique opportunity to interact directly with the company’s experts and explore the latest developments in the agri-food sector.

In line with its purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, Alltech will emphasize its commitment to sustainability through partnerships and innovations that address global food security, climate change and resource scarcity. At VIV Asia, attendees can expect to learn how Alltech’s solutions support a sustainable future for the agri-food industry.

Alltech’s programs at VIV Asia include:

• Seminar: Transforming animal nutrition: Evolving technologies to shape a sustainable and profitable future
  • When: March 12, 14:00–15:45
  • Venue: Jupiter 5, G Floor IMPACT
     
• Alltech 2025 Asia Import Risk Analysis: This valuable report highlights key regional and animal-specific mycotoxin concerns in imported raw materials for animal feed.
   
• Introducing Agolin^®: This cutting-edge, eco-friendly solution is designed to promote animal productivity while supporting sustainability goals. Agolin will be featured at the Alltech booth and discussed in-depth during the event.
   
• World Without Cows screening: Filmmakers Michelle Michael and Brandon Whitworth have spent the past three years exploring a fascinating question: Are we better off in a world without cows? The thought-provoking documentary World Without Cows delves into the cultural, societal and environmental significance of cows, examining their vital role in nourishing the world and combating climate change.
  • When: March 12, 17:30–21:00
  • Venue: Summer House, Nai Lert Park 4 Soi Somkid Ploechit Road, Bangkok
     
• Alltech Happy Hour: Visitors are invited to enjoy refreshing drinks at the Alltech booth.
  • When: March 12 and 13, 15:00–16:00

For more information, visit Alltech.com.

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – Alltech has released its annual Sustainability Report, which demonstrates the actions the company is taking to align its business with its purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty^®, reducing its environmental impact and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Alltech is committed to prioritizing the efficient and profitable production of nutritious food while helping producers worldwide implement solutions to their sustainability and productivity challenges. The Alltech Sustainability Report highlights how Working Together for a Planet of Plenty shapes Alltech’s business — and its future.

“Everything we do is centered on helping us advance our purpose of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Tara McCarthy, global vice president for ESG at Alltech. “We have made great progress toward our ESG goals, but we know that there is always more work to be done. Alltech team members around the world have shown unwavering commitment to sustainable and ethical business practices. We continue to strive for ambitious ESG targets, find areas for improvement and innovation, and nurture a culture of sustainability.”

Guided by its Planet of Plenty purpose, Alltech is committed to:

• Delivering measurable impact via nutritional technologies and services that maximize producer profitability, production efficiency and sustainability.
• Connecting with global partners to solve high-impact issues and advance sustainable agricultural practices.
• Advocating for the agri-food industry, sharing the sustainable power of science in agri-food via its Planet of Plenty website and through projects like the upcoming documentary World Without Cows.
• Investing in education and research to address issues such as soil health, greenhouse gases, carbon sequestration, methane mitigation, antimicrobial resistance — and more.
• Sharpening its ESG strategy by continually reducing its environmental impact, prioritizing social responsibility and adopting governance practices that ensure transparency and accountability.

Through data and stories from Alltech team members around the world, the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report emphasizes the role of agriculture in combatting climate change and creating healthy, sustainable food systems. It also includes information about Alltech’s emissions reduction goals and highlights its efforts to improve energy usage, reduce waste, and advance environmental actions in the industry. Additionally, the report outlines the steps Alltech has taken to promote a diverse and inclusive work environment and demonstrates its team members’ efforts to make a difference in the communities in which they live and work.

2023 highlights include:

• Alltech has reduced its Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 19.8% from its 2021 base year. It aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 42% by 2030 (from its 2021 base year) and its Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030 (from its 2023 base year).
• Alltech completed 19 energy efficiency projects. It conducted 31 energy efficiency project feasibility studies and six renewable energy project feasibility studies. The company invested $3.85 million in efficiency projects in 2023, resulting in the reduction of 8,990 metric tons of CO₂e.
• Alltech completed 74 core product life-cycle analyses across its top seven specialty ingredients and 17 production facilities.
• Alltech was awarded three EcoVadis sustainability medals in 2023.
• Alltech Serdán was recertified in 2023 as Empresa Socialmente Responsible (ESR).
• Alltech was accredited by the Pet Sustainability Coalition for the third year in a row.
• Sixty team members participated in the Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program.

“2023 was another milestone year for Alltech as we advanced our mission and vision of Working Together for a Planet of Plenty,” said Dr. Mark Lyons, president and CEO of Alltech. “In the five years since it was launched at the Alltech ONE Conference in Kentucky, Planet of Plenty has become a strategic driver of our business and an accelerator of what is even more important: our impact. Through new partnerships and ongoing collaboration with trusted allies we’ve worked alongside for decades, we continue to drive progress toward our shared goal of a world of abundance for future generations.”

Alltech continues to serve as a voice for the industry, advancing agri-food innovation and highlighting agriculture’s role in nourishing the world and nurturing the planet. Through publications like the Alltech Sustainability Insights Report, the Alltech Sustainability Report, Agri-Food Outlook, Harvest Analysis, Import Risk Analysis and others, the company serves as an industry thought leader and helps to address some of the most pressing issues facing the agri-food community.

Alltech shares the sustainable power of science in agri-food through stories, podcasts, blogs and videos on its Planet of Plenty website. This year, Alltech is promoting Planet of Plenty’s first feature-length documentary, World Without Cows, a three-year exploration of the true impact of cattle on our world.

The film takes viewers to more than 40 locations around the world to hear insights from leading scientists, farmers, economists and other experts about the cultural and economic significance of cattle, their role in nourishing the world and their impact on climate. It aims to broaden the conversation about the role of cattle and to inspire deeper reflection about their role in the vitality of our planet. Learn more at worldwithoutcows.com.

For more information and to download the 2023 Alltech Sustainability Report in full, visit alltech.com/sustainability.

Asia-Pacific’s dominance in aquaculture

Global aquaculture production now accounts for 51% of the global supply of aquatic animals, surpassing fisheries for the first time — and this increase is primarily driven by growth in the Asia-Pacific region, which in 2022 produced 83.4 million metric tons (MT) of aquatic animals out of the 94.4 million MT produced worldwide.

Innovations in aquafeed formulations

The aquaculture industry’s rapid expansion is supported by innovations in aquafeed formulations, with fed aquaculture now representing 73% of total production. With fish meal and fish oil becoming scarcer and more expensive, the industry has turned to alternative protein sources, primarily plant-based ingredients.

Soybean meal is the most common plant protein used in the diets of farmed aquatic species, with inclusion rates varying across species such as Asian sea bass (25%), white-leg shrimp (35%), and pangasius catfish (42%). Other plant-based ingredients — such as wheatmeal, cornmeal and byproducts like dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) — are also widely used.

Risks of mycotoxin contamination

While plant-based ingredients are essential for sustainability, they bring the risk of mycotoxin contamination.

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by specific fungi that grow on plants before and after harvest, especially in inadequate storage conditions. Common mycotoxins in aquafeeds include Fusarium-produced toxins (e.g., fumonisins and deoxynivalenol), as well as aflatoxins and ochratoxin A, which are produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium species during storage.

The Alltech 37+® lab offers advanced mycotoxin analysis technology such as liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), which allows for the detection of up to 54 different mycotoxins. To assess the general risk of mycotoxin contamination, we examined the mycotoxin profiles of samples of soybean meal, DDGS, wheat and corn.

• Over 90% of DDGS samples contained Fusarium-produced mycotoxins such as fumonisins, and around 13% of these samples also contained aflatoxin B1.
• Soybean meal samples were found to contain fusaric acid, while wheat and corn samples showed high levels of type B trichothecenes (e.g., deoxynivalenol).
• Notably, emerging mycotoxins — toxins that are not yet regulated — were found in over 70% of all samples tested, highlighting the rising risk and the necessity of proper mycotoxin management.

Effects of mycotoxins on aquatic species

The presence of mycotoxins in aquafeeds poses significant risks to aquatic species. Mycotoxins can impair growth, immune response, and overall health in fish and shrimp.

Each aqua species exhibits specific sensitivities to different mycotoxins. For instance, carp are particularly vulnerable to deoxynivalenol, which has been shown to affect organ health and reduce growth performance. T-2 toxin, another common mycotoxin, can decrease feed intake and cause oxidative stress and DNA damage in common carp.

In shrimp, even low concentrations of deoxynivalenol (around 330 ppb) can lead to reduced weight gain and can impact gene expression related to antioxidative defenses. T-2 toxin and fumonisins also significantly affect shrimp health, leading to muscle deterioration, reduced growth and increased mortality. These changes not only affect the animals’ welfare but also reduce the quality and nutritional value of shrimp for consumers.

Geographical regions also vary in their susceptibility to the different mycotoxin types. For instance, storage mycotoxins such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin A are of particular concern in the Asia-Pacific region due to the high temperatures and humidity that favor their growth. These mycotoxins can reduce feed efficiency, damage vital organs like the hepatopancreas, and lower survival rates in aquatic species.

Mycotoxin prevention and mitigation strategies

Mycotoxin contamination can occur before and/or after harvest — but preventing fungal growth on crops pre-harvest has become increasingly challenging due to climate change. As a result, feed mills are now more likely to receive feedstuffs that have already been contaminated in the fields.

Fortunately, some preventive and corrective steps can be implemented at this stage to mitigate the risk of exposing fish and shrimp to mycotoxins. In fact, mycotoxin prevention and mitigation strategies along the aquafeed supply chain are primarily implemented at the feed mill level (Figure 1). The implementation of a monitoring plan at feed mills, which screen feedstuffs upon arrival, is an effective option for preventing mycotoxin contamination.

Alltech® RAPIREAD™ technology is another effective option, enabling feed producers to quickly identify and analyze up to seven key mycotoxins on-farm. Producers should also periodically send samples of their feedstuffs and final feeds for a full-spectrum analysis by a certified lab such as the Alltech 37+ lab, which can detect up to 54 different mycotoxins.

Based on the results of those analyses, feed producers can strategically supplement mycotoxin-adsorbing agents — such as those in the Mycosorb® range from Alltech — in their formulas. Some producers may decide to include these agents for prophylactic purposes without necessarily implementing a full mycotoxin-monitoring plan.

Another common feed-formulation strategy is to include mold inhibitors, such as Alltech’s Mold-Zap®, to help inhibit fungal growth and minimize the risk of contamination during storage. 

Figure 1. Recommended mycotoxin prevention and mitigation strategies for feed mills

The role of yeast cell wall extract (YCWE)

Evaluating the effectiveness of any multi-binding agent is crucial, considering that feedstuffs and aquafeeds are commonly contaminated with multiple mycotoxins.

In the literature, Mycosorb solutions are referred to as yeast cell wall extract (YCWE) and backed by decades of scientific research. Among the various detoxifying agents with multiple-mycotoxin-binding claims tested in vitro, YCWE has demonstrated the greatest efficacy, adsorbing more than 50% of deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, fumonisin B1, ochratoxin A, T-2 toxin and aflatoxin B1. YCWE has also been successfully tested in vivo in several aquatic species.

Mycosorb technology consists of insoluble carbohydrates primarily derived from the glucans in the cell walls of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain of yeast. Mycosorb A+® goes a step further by combining these yeast cell wall components with carbohydrate components from algae. The flexible surfaces of these active yeast cell wall components facilitate the absorption of free mycotoxins. More specifically, β-D-glucans feature spaces that align perfectly with specific mycotoxins, making them optimal binding sites. The algal components of Mycosorb A+ further enhance its binding capacity, allowing it to adsorb a broader range of mycotoxins.

Unlike clay-based mycotoxin binders, the yeast and algae components of this solution do not interact with the essential nutrients, minerals or vitamins included in the diet. Instead, they specifically bind mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, inhibiting the absorption of mycotoxins into the bloodstream and their distribution to target organs. They also promote the excretion of mycotoxins through the feces. As a result, the bioavailability of these mycotoxins is minimized, as is their potential impact on animal health and performance.

For more information on how to manage the mycotoxin threat to your business, please contact our team. You can also find additional resources at knowmycotoxins.com.

About the author:

Dr. Vivi Koletsi is a global technical support specialist within Alltech’s Technology Group. She collaborates with the company’s global Aqua team regarding all technologies on the aquatic species side.   

Dr. Koletsi, a native of Ioannina, Greece, first became interested in aquaculture while completing her undergraduate studies in biology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She began focusing on fish nutrition in earnest while pursuing her master’s degree in aquaculture and marine resource management at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. This interest led her to complete an internship with Alltech Coppens, during which she established a protocol to help prevent mycotoxin contamination in aqua feeds. 

Upon earning her master’s degree, Dr. Koletsi continued her mycotoxin research at the doctoral level with support from Alltech in collaboration with the Aquaculture and Fisheries Group at Wageningen University & Research. While completing her doctoral studies, Dr. Koletsi conducted trials at Alltech Coppens’ facilities while continuing laboratory work at Wageningen. Her focus was on mycotoxins’ impact on rainbow trout.  

Dr. Koletsi joined Alltech as a team member upon completion of her Ph.D. in 2023. 

I want to learn more about nutrition for aquaculture. 

In aquaculture, maintaining proper fish health is crucial to avoid incurring significant economic losses. While gut health often takes center stage, the skin and gills are also critical first lines of defense. This blog explores the potential of functional feed materials — particularly the refined form of mannan oligosaccharides, the mannan-rich fraction (MRF) — to enhance those defenses. Discover the science behind these innovations and their practical benefits for a more sustainable aquaculture industry.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are generally included in aquafeed formulations as functional feed materials to help support normal immune functions and enhance nutrient absorption, digestion and, ultimately, the animal’s performance. Gibson and Roberfroid (1995) defined a prebiotic as “an indigestible fiber that can enhance the growth and activity of health-promoting bacteria in the intestine and beneficially affect the host.” Along with their ability to effectively outcompete pathogenic bacteria and discourage adhesion, these health-promoting bacteria can also ferment prebiotic substrates, resulting in the production of short-chain fatty acids, which helps boost intestinal functions by increasing mucus and also affects the immune response (Fatima and Mansell, 2019).

From the gut to skin and gill health

While much research has focused on the effects of prebiotics on fish gut health, other mucosal surfaces — such as the skin and gills — are often overlooked. Nevertheless, skin and gills also act as a critical first line of defense for a fish’s overall health, as these large surface areas are exposed to the aquatic environment and, therefore, serve as primary targets for pathogen attachment and invasion in finfish. The mucus layer covering the epidermal and gill epithelial surfaces is not just a physical barrier; it contains potent immunologically active molecules, underlying mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue elements and microbiota, which facilitate the development and homeostasis of the host fish’s immunity (Cabillon and Lazado, 2019). However, under stressful fish farming conditions (e.g., high stocking densities, fluctuating temperatures in open systems due to climate change), a disruption of the symbiotic host-microbiome relationship can lead to significant changes in the microbiota structure — which favors the growth of opportunistic pathogens (Debnath et al., 2023).

Pathogenic challenges

Disease outbreaks in aquaculture stem from complex interactions between fish hosts, farming conditions and pathogens (Figure 1; adapted from Moreira et al., 2021). These outbreaks can lead to welfare challenges for animals and financial losses for producers. Bacterial and parasitic agents cause severe, unpredictable and difficult-to-treat infections on the skin and gill surfaces. For example, the parasitic copepod Lepeophtheirus salmonis, which is responsible for sea lice infestations in salmon farms that cause skin wounds and secondary infections, significantly impacted revenues and led to financial losses estimated at US$436 million for the Norwegian industry in 2011 (Abolofia et al., 2017). As aquaculture evolves, sustainable disease management strategies will be required to protect animal welfare, health, the environment and the producer’s profitability (Lieke et al., 2020)

Figure 1. The main factors influencing the interactions between pathogens, hosts and the farming environment in fish disease outbreaks.

Mannan-rich fraction (MRF)

According to Bondad‐Reantaso et al. (2023), since the European ban on subtherapeutic antibiotics in animals, including fish, mannan oligosaccharides have become a primary alternative strategy for disease management in aquaculture. Mannan-rich fraction (MRF), the refined version of mannan oligosaccharides is characterized by α-(1,2)- and α-(1,3)-D-mannose branches connected to extended α-(1,6)-D-mannose chains (Hu et al., 2024). Alltech’s MRF is derived from the cell wall of a select strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and is among the most-studied functional feed materials in farmed animals (Spring et al., 2015).  Research findings support MRF’s protective role against various health challenges in skin and gills across different fish species, including salmonids (salmon and trout), freshwater species (catfish and tilapia), marine species (greater amberjack) and ornamental fish (goldfish). Some of those key findings are summarized in Table 1.

Protective roles

Feeding trials without pathogenic challenges have already shown the potential of MRF to support normal functions of the mucosal immune barrier. In a study of rainbow trout, skin mucus production increased after 12 weeks of feeding MRF (Rodriguez-Estrada et al., 2013), and in studies in goldfish (Huang et al., 2022; Liu et al., 2024), longer gill lamellae, greater thickness of the dermal dense layer of skin, the number of mucous cells in the tissues of skin and gills, and an upregulated expression of genes related to Mucin-2, mannose receptors, phagocytosis and inflammation were noted after 60 days of feeding MRF.

The results of other trials across different fish host species have confirmed the activation of the necessary mechanisms that support normal functioning of the mucosal immune barriers, discourage the adhesion of pathogenic bacteria and impact the immunological responses of the challenged fish fed with MRF. For instance, the dietary supplementation of MRF in the diets of Atlantic salmon (Dimitroglou et al., 2011) was associated with a reduced total number of the parasitic copepods Lepeophtheirus salmonis and Caligus elongatus attached to the epidermis — which was also reflected in the reduced number of fish infected by sea lice (Figure 2A). In grass carp, supplementation with MRF helped alleviate the skin damage (Figure 2D) caused by the bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila (Lu et al., 2021). A similar observation was noted for greater amberjack challenged by the monogenean flatworm parasite Neobenedenia girellae (Fernández-Montero et al., 2019), which experienced a significantly reduced number of parasites per fish surface and a decreased total length for the parasites associated with feeding MRF (Figure 2B). In goldfish challenged by the parasitic protozoa Ichthyophthirius multifiliis — which causes white spot disease, also known as ich — another research group demonstrated a significantly lower number of white spots and a diminished infection rate after feeding diets that included MRF (Huang et al., 2022; Figure 2C).

The protective influence of MRF has been evaluated not only through demonstrations of lower parasitic counts and clinical symptoms on skin and gill surfaces but also by increased resilience in infected fish. Several studies have reported significantly higher cumulative survival rates — including in rainbow trout fed MRF and challenged by Aeromonas salmonicida (Rodriguez-Estrada et al., 2013), in channel catfish fingerlings fed MRF and challenged by Flavobacterium columnare (Zhao et al., 2015) and in goldfish fed MRF and challenged by ich (Huang et al., 2022). These studies attributed this protection to the positive impact of MRF, which is correlated with the altered expression of inflammatory cytokines and immunoactive substances (e.g., lysozyme and alkaline phosphate activities) that favor resolution and repair processes.

Figure 2. MRF studies in different fish species. A) Salmon: A reduced number of sea lice and number of infected fish (Dimitroglou et al., 2011). B) Greater amberjack: A reduced number of parasites and parasite length (Fernández-Montero et al., 2019). C) Goldfish: Reduced white spot counts, infection rates and mortality (Huang et al., 2022). D) Grass carp: Reduced red-skin morbidity (Lu et al., 2021).

To further increase our understanding of the mode of action of MRF, research was recently conducted in goldfish using ich as a model health challenge (Liu et al., 2024). New insights from the transcriptome data from the study of Liu et al. (2024) suggests that MRF bind to the mannose receptors in fish macrophages, stimulating their phagocytic function, promoting non-specific immunity, and alleviating parasitic infections through the MRF immunomodulatory role.

Conclusion

Diseases cause significant losses to aquaculture operations. As such, investing in control and mitigation techniques is essential for a farm’s economic sustainability — especially considering the unknown impacts of climate change on infectious agents. As the research has shown, natural dietary tools such as MRF technology are cost-effective solutions that can help nutritionists formulate diets that boost physical mucous barriers, discourage the adhesion of pathogenic bacteria and support normal immune responses. This extensive research demonstrates the holistic protection of MRF beyond gut health, highlighting additional protective effects on the skin and gill surfaces across various species.

Table 1. Summary of studies in various fish species that investigated the potential role of MRF in protecting skin and gill health during common health challenges in aquaculture.

About the author:

Dr. Vivi Koletsi is a global technical support specialist within Alltech’s Technology Group. She collaborates with the company’s global Aqua team regarding all technologies on the aquatic species side.   

Dr. Koletsi, a native of Ioannina, Greece, first became interested in aquaculture while completing her undergraduate studies in biology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She began focusing on fish nutrition in earnest while pursuing her master’s degree in aquaculture and marine resource management at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. This interest led her to complete an internship with Alltech Coppens, during which she established a protocol to help prevent mycotoxin contamination in aqua feeds. 

Upon earning her master’s degree, Dr. Koletsi continued her mycotoxin research at the doctoral level with support from Alltech in collaboration with the Aquaculture and Fisheries Group at Wageningen University & Research. While completing her doctoral studies, Dr. Koletsi conducted trials at Alltech Coppens’ facilities while continuing laboratory work at Wageningen. Her focus was on mycotoxins’ impact on rainbow trout.  

Dr. Koletsi joined Alltech as a team member upon completion of her Ph.D. in 2023. 

I want to learn more about nutrition for aquaculture.

The expansion of aquaculture has presented challenges for the aquafeed industry, especially when it comes to meeting increasing demands while also ensuring both environmental sustainability and economic viability for farmers.

A key strategy for addressing these challenges is the utilization of flexible feed formulations, which allows for the inclusion of diverse plant-based raw materials and byproducts. To create effective flexible feed formulations, nutritionists must first overcome potential nutritional challenges, such as the anti-nutritional factors that are typically associated with plant ingredients.

In this blog, we will discuss how multi-enzyme technologies can help improve nutrient utilization, enhance feed efficiency and diminish the cost of aquafeed formulations.

The evolution of aquafeed composition

As the fastest-growing food production sector worldwide, aquaculture plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and in the greater effort to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations, including "Zero Hunger" (Hasegawa et al., 2019). Despite its rapid growth, scientists estimate that aquaculture production will need to expand even more by 2050 to meet the increasing demand for seafood and affordable protein (Boyd et al., 2022).

While limited availability and the prices of traditionally used marine ingredients from wild-caught stocks (i.e., fishmeal and fish oil) could have created a bottleneck for the growth of feed production and aquaculture, respectively (Cottrell et al., 2021), the industry evolved and diversified the composition of its aquafeeds to include alternative terrestrial-based raw materials, helping maintain and support the expansion of aquaculture (Naylor et al., 2021).

These changes have even been reflected in the diets of carnivorous species over the past 30 years, and the inclusion of plant-based ingredients in salmon and rainbow trout diets in Norway climbed to 60% in 2020 (Aas et al., 2022). A typical composition for these diets, including a list of plant-based ingredients, is presented in Figure 1.           

Nutritional challenges of plant-based ingredients

It is important to note, however, that the shift towards more economical and sustainable raw materials has brought with it nutritional challenges that feed producers must solve. These potential challenges include amino acid deficiencies, poor digestibility and palatability, and an increased risk of mycotoxin contamination.

Additionally, almost all plant ingredients contain certain anti-nutritional factors (Hussain et al., 2024). These factors, which are found in the form of natural substances, can interfere with the digestibility/absorption of nutrients. The most common anti-nutritional factors that can negatively impact fish productivity include protease inhibitors, phytates (i.e., phytic acid), glucosinolates, saponins, tannins, lectins, oligosaccharides and non-starch polysaccharides (NSP), phytoestrogens, alkaloids, antigenic compounds and gossypols (Francis et al., 2001). Among these compounds, NSPs and phytates receive the most attention from fish nutritionists and are the primary reasons for restricting the inclusion of plant materials in aquafeed formulations.

NSPs are complex carbohydrates that serve as major structural components of plant cell walls, including cellulose, hemicellulose, pectins and beta-glucans. Wheat — the main carbohydrate source used in aquafeeds — contains 119 g/kg of NSP in its dry matter, while soybean meal, the primary plant protein source, contains 217 g/kg (Sinha et al., 2011). However, most aquatic species lack NSP-degrading digestive enzymes, preventing NSP from serving as an energy source (Kaushik et al., 2022). The negative effects of NSPs are associated with their viscous nature, which leads to the decreased digestibility and absorption of macronutrients (Sinha et al., 2011; Kaushik et al., 2022).

When phytic acid binds with minerals to form phytate salts, it becomes the primary storage form of phosphorus in plants (Shankaran & Kumari, 2024). The phosphorus in commonly used plant-based feedstuffs mostly comes from phytate phosphorous, which can be included in proportions reaching up to 80% (Cao et al., 2007; Kumar et al.,2011). Phosphorus is essential for aquatic organisms, although they have a limited ability to break down phytate. As a result, phosphorus cannot be utilized in the phytate form and is excreted into the environment (Cao et al., 2007). Additionally, in the gastrointestinal tract, phytate binds to minerals (e.g., Zn²⁺ and Fe²⁺) and interacts with nutrients such as fatty acids and protein, leading to reduced bioavailability — which raises further concerns about water pollution and the environmental impact of aquafeeds (Kumar et al., 2011). Since processing treatments are not very efficient in reducing the content of anti-nutritional factors, the best approach to improving carbohydrate utilization is via the supplementation of carbohydrase enzymes and the bioavailability of phosphorus with phytase (Kaushik et al., 2022).

Enzyme technology and its benefits

Enzyme technology is a promising tool to mitigate the adverse effects of the anti-nutritional factors present in the plant feedstuffs used in animal feeds (Steinberg, 2022). According to Liang et al. (2022), the global market size for animal feed enzymes was over US$1.3 billion in 2021 and is projected to expand further by 2028 due to their cost-effectiveness and sustainability considerations.

Comprehensive studies that reviewed the supplementation of exogenous phytases, carbohydrases and proteases in aquafeeds concluded that they have significant potential as functional additives for improving the nutritional value of aquafeeds (Castillo and Gatlin, 2015; Zheng et al., 2020; Liang et al., 2022; Chen et al., 2024). These studies have also illustrated that the efficacy of enzymes depends on the diet composition and application method.

The inclusion of enzymes is recommended in diets with a high content of plant-based materials and byproducts, and post-spraying application is advised to ensure maximum enzyme stability (Liang et al., 2022). Finally, it has been noted that enzyme supplementation is more effective when a cocktail of enzymes is used rather than a single enzyme type (Zheng et al., 2020).

A commercially available multi-enzymatic solution from Alltech is derived from the solid-state fermentation (SSF) of a select strain of non-GMO Aspergillus niger. Extensive research has explored the potential of multi-enzyme complexes to enhance nutrient utilization and growth in economically significant farmed fish species. Some of Alltech’s research footprint can be seen in a flyer (available here), which summarizes trial results across different species, including warm-water fish such as tilapia, catfish and pangasius, as well as key species in marine aquaculture, like seabass and red seabream. Collectively, the results have shown that the application of the multi-enzyme is beneficial for growth and feed utilization, measured as improved weight gain and feed conversion ratio (FCR), as well as an increased digestibility of phosphorous and nutrients (e.g., protein and amino acids) and reduced nitrogen and phosphorus excretions.

Overall, multi-enzyme technologies can provide flexibility in feed formulations by targeting different substrates and enhancing nutrient utilization. These improvements lead to better fish performance and higher economic returns for producers. Additionally, utilizing these technologies can minimize nutrient discharges, allowing the aquaculture industry to demonstrate its responsibility toward the aquatic environment and sustainably produce food, thereby reducing its environmental impact.

About the author:

Dr. Vivi Koletsi is a global technical support specialist within Alltech’s Technology Group. She collaborates with the company’s global Aqua team regarding all technologies on the aquatic species side.   

Dr. Koletsi, a native of Ioannina, Greece, first became interested in aquaculture while completing her undergraduate studies in biology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. She began focusing on fish nutrition in earnest while pursuing her master’s degree in aquaculture and marine resource management at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. This interest led her to complete an internship with Alltech Coppens, during which she established a protocol to help prevent mycotoxin contamination in aqua feeds. 

Upon earning her master’s degree, Dr. Koletsi continued her mycotoxin research at the doctoral level with support from Alltech in collaboration with the Aquaculture and Fisheries Group at Wageningen University & Research. While completing her doctoral studies, Dr. Koletsi conducted trials at Alltech Coppens’ facilities while continuing laboratory work at Wageningen. Her focus was on mycotoxins’ impact on rainbow trout.  

Dr. Koletsi joined Alltech as a team member upon completion of her Ph.D. in 2023. 

I want to learn more about nutrition for aquaculture.