Advances in the use of hemp as feed for aquaculture

Aquaculture has experienced unprecedented growth over the past few decades, and as of 2022, it accounted for 51% of aquatic animal production and 57% of fish used for food (FAO, 2024). This growth has been accelerated by changes in food choices among consumers, caused by increasing purchasing power and growing awareness of the health benefits of seafood. In addition, the surge in feed-based aquaculture production has also contributed to the industry’s growth. While the recent aquaculture production output is noteworthy and expected to increase over the next decades, the production of equivalent quantities of feed and the reduction of fishmeal (FM) in feed are vital for the sustainability of the industry (Fawole et al., 2023). Feed accounts for 50–70% of the production cost, depending on the species and farming system, with FM constituting the major expense, especially for carnivorous species. Although the use of FM in aquafeed offers a benefit of supplying adequate levels of nutrients necessary for optimal growth of fish and shellfish, the rising cost of this commodity and other associated limitations are posing a serious threat to sustainable growth of the industry. Thus, more effort must be made to increase the alternative ingredient portfolio for aquaculture.