The World of Fish Feed
Analysis of vitamins and amino acids in fish feed is critical to ensure that fish receive the necessary nutrients for growth, health, and optimal performance. Deficiencies or imbalances in essential vitamins and amino acids can lead to poor fish health, reduced growth rates, and increased susceptibility to disease. Accurate analysis allows for adjustments to be made to optimize fish nutrition, resulting in healthier, more productive fish.
Additionally, fish feed is often formulated using alternative ingredients such as plant-based proteins and oils, which may have lower levels of certain essential nutrients, making it essential to test and supplement the feed accordingly. Proper nutrition is crucial for the success of aquaculture operations and sustainable fish production
Analyzing fish feed
It is important to be aware of the possible difference between declared levels and analytical results. Declarations are very often based only on the added amount, while the analytical results are the total amount of vitamins, amino acids, etc. Therefore the analytical result will often be higher than the declaration.
Another important issue is the fat content in the fish feed. The content of fat in fish feed can differ from approximately 10 % up to 40 % and this affect the analysis of especially the fat soluble vitamins. For the analysis of fat soluble vitamins saponification is used to release the bound vitamins.
If the sample contains too much fat the saponification will not be complete, so for fish feed with very high level of fat a smaller sample size is taken into work.
Quality and accreditations at Eurofins Vitamin Testing
At Eurofins we prioritize quality though well implemented quality assurance systems and validated methods. We perform daily test of performance, make use of reference materials, participate in international proficiency tests, and our laboratory is accredited according to ISO 17025.
At Eurofins Vitamin Testing we have in-depth knowledge of the different types of matrices that we analyze and as a competence center with extensive expertise in vitamin and amino acid analysis, we ensure you a high quality services.
Testing Vitamins and Amino acids in fish feed
Vitamins in fish feed
Vitamins
All the B-vitamins, though required only in small amounts in the fish’s diet, play major roles in growth, physiology and metabolism. Fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K differ from the watersoluble vitamins in their function. They are essential but can also be toxic if consumed in excess amounts. The toxicity symptoms involving especially vitamin A and vitamin D are indistinguishable from deficiency symptoms for the vitamins.
This really shows the importance of quality checking the fish feed, so that the safety of the farmed fish is met.
Amino acids in fish feed
Amino acids
There are ten amino acids which are indispensable for fish because they are incapable of synthesizing these. These amino acids need to be supplemented in the diet. The ten essential amino acids are: Arginine, Histidine, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Threonine, Tryptophan and Valine.
Amino acids and other nutrients like vitamins are important for the fish to grow desirably. Due to the importance of the diet we recommend that fish feed is analyzed and checked to ensure high quality and environmental safety. Analyzing and checking the feed can also help decrease the feed cost.
Biogenic amines in fish feed
Biogenic amines
Biogenic amines can accumulate in fish tissue and cause histamine poisoning in humans if consumed in high amounts. Biogenic amines are formed by the breakdown of amino acids during feed storage and can be an indicator of poor feed quality. Monitoring biogenic amine levels in fish feed can help prevent histamine toxicity and ensure the safety and quality of the fish produced
Phosphorylated ascorbic acid in fish feed
Phosphorylated vitamin C
Phosphorylated ascorbic acid (PCA) is a stable form of vitamin C used in fish feed to supplement the fish diet with this essential vitamin. PCA is more stable than other forms of vitamin C and has a longer shelf life. Proper levels of vitamin C are necessary for various physiological processes and play a crucial role in fish growth, health, and disease resistance. Adding PCA to fish feed ensures that fish receive the proper amount of vitamin C, leading to healthier, more productive fish.
Astaxanthin in fish feed
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment that is commonly added to fish feed to enhance the color of fish flesh. It is a potent antioxidant that supports fish health and immune function. Astaxanthin is also a vital nutrient for farmed salmon, which cannot naturally produce it. Proper levels of astaxanthin in fish feed ensure that farmed fish have vibrant, healthy flesh and optimal health.
Choline in fish feed
Choline
Choline is an essential nutrient for fish growth, development, and overall health. It is a precursor to important compounds like acetylcholine and phosphatidylcholine, which are vital for various physiological processes. Choline deficiency can result in poor growth, liver damage, and other health issues.
