Evonik Invests in New Methionine Plant for Shrimp
- The plant in Antwerp will start operating in late 2015.
- Investment volume is in the lower double-digit-million-euro range.
- AQUAVI® Met-Met is a dipeptide made of two DL-methionine molecules.
- Shrimp production in aquaculture is expected to reach 7 million metric tons in 2015.
New Methionine Plant in Antwerp
Evonik Industries is set to build the world's first plant for producing AQUAVI® Met-Met, a new methionine source for shrimp and other crustaceans, in Antwerp, Belgium. The plant is scheduled to commence operations in late 2015, with an investment volume in the lower double-digit-million-euro range.
Product and Market Expansion
AQUAVI® Met-Met will initially be offered for shrimp and crustaceans, with plans to expand to other species. The plant is designed to ensure a reliable supply of AQUAVI® Met-Met for customers. The aquaculture market is growing at six percent per annum, driven by demographic growth, increasing affluence, and overfishing. By 2015, 50 percent of edible meat from fish, crustaceans, and shellfish is expected to come from aquaculture.
Efficiency and Sustainability
AQUAVI® Met-Met is a dipeptide composed of two DL-methionine molecules, which are less water-soluble and more efficiently utilized by shrimp. This reduces the need for expensive fish meal, which constitutes up to 80 percent of shrimp production costs. Tests show that 0.5 kilograms of AQUAVI® Met-Met can achieve the same growth as 0.9 kilograms of DL-methionine, making it significantly more effective.
Environmental Impact
The use of AQUAVI® Met-Met in shrimp aquaculture reduces fish meal consumption, alleviating pressure on fishing grounds and contributing to sustainability. It also helps maintain water purity by reducing waste, promoting healthier shrimp, and lessening environmental strain.