A recent internal study highlights the significant benefits of using egg powder as a key ingredient in aquafeed for Whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei). The research, conducted internally by VEOS Group, found that egg powder not only provides a high-quality nutritional profile but also improves the quality and durability of feed pellets.
What makes egg powder so effective?
The study explored how egg powder’s unique properties enhance shrimp feed, focusing on two main areas:
Nutrition and feed pellet quality.
- Nutritional powerhouse: egg powder is a rich source of highly digestible proteins, essential amino acids, natural cholesterol, vitamins, and antioxidants. This makes it a sustainable, cost-effective, and high-quality alternative to traditional proteins and purified cholesterol.
- Superior pellet quality: the study demonstrated that egg powder acts as a natural technical aid in feed production. Its natural binding, emulsifying, and gelling properties create a more cohesive and durable feed pellet.
Key benefits for farmers
The improvements in feed quality directly translate to significant advantages for shrimp farmers and the environment:
- Reduced nutrient waste: more durable pellets mean less nutrient leaching into the water. This was clearly shown in a water conductivity test, where diets containing egg powder had up to 93% better nutrient retention compared to the control diet.
- Enhanced feed intake: when pellets stay intact longer, they are easier for shrimp to consume, which optimises nutrient delivery and supports better growth and health.
- Improved water quality: by minimising nutrient loss and the creation of “fines” (small, dusty particles), egg powder helps maintain cleaner water, reducing pollution and contributing to a healthier aquatic environment.
In conclusion, incorporating egg powder into shrimp diets offers a comprehensive solution that supports more resilient, environmentally responsible, and economically viable shrimp farming.
You can contact at com@veos.be for more details on the trial.
