Evonik Launches Methionine Plant for Shrimp Feed
- Evonik's Antwerp plant produces AQUAVI® Met-Met, a new methionine source for shrimp feed.
- AQUAVI® Met-Met will be launched in mid-2016.
- 0.56 kg of AQUAVI® Met-Met in 1,000 kg of shrimp feed matches the growth of 1 kg DL-methionine.
- AQUAVI® Met-Met is registered as a feed additive in many countries.
New Methionine Source for Shrimp Feed
Evonik Industries has inaugurated the world's first production plant for AQUAVI® Met-Met, a new methionine source specifically designed for shrimps and other crustaceans. Located in Antwerp, Belgium, the plant aims to launch the product by mid-2016.
Efficiency and Sustainability
AQUAVI® Met-Met, a dipeptide of two DL-methionine molecules, offers a cost-efficient and sustainable solution for shrimp and crustacean farming. It is less water-soluble than DL-methionine, reducing leaching from feed and ensuring methionine is available for protein synthesis at the right time in the shrimp's digestive tract.
Feeding Trials and Results
Feeding trials in various countries have demonstrated that 0.56 kg of AQUAVI® Met-Met in 1,000 kg of shrimp feed achieves the same growth as 1 kg of DL-methionine. This improvement in feed efficiency contributes to the sustainability of shrimp farming by reducing the reliance on fishmeal, a significant cost factor for farmers.
Regulatory Approvals
AQUAVI® Met-Met has already been registered as a feed additive in many countries, with more registrations expected. While initially targeted at shrimps and crustaceans, its efficiency is currently being tested for other species.