DOI: https://doi.org/10.5513/JCEA01/27.2.5345
Review article
Insect and soybean meals as sustainable alternatives to fish meal in aquaculture: nutritional, growth, and health implications
2026, 27 (2) p. 354-373
Cristian Ovidiu COROIAN, Adela Maria DĂESCU
Abstract
Sustainable aquaculture demands viable alternatives to traditional fish meal (FM), whose limited supply, high cost, and ecological impacts challenge its continued use in aquafeeds. This review synthesizes current knowledge on two promising protein sources - insect meal (IM) and soybean meal (SBM) - focusing on their nutritional profiles, digestibility, effects on fish growth performance, and implications for fish health and feed formulation. IMs, particularly from Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio molitor, offer high protein content, balanced essential amino acids (EAAs), bioactive compounds (e.g., chitin, antimicrobial peptides), and micronutrients that enhance gut health and immune responses at moderate inclusion levels. SBM, with its global availability and favorable economics, provides substantial protein but contains anti nutritional factors that require processing or supplementation to optimize utilization, especially in carnivorous species. Comparative analysis reveals that IM generally yields superior functional benefits and closer nutritional similarity to FM, while processed SBM remains an effective, cost efficient ingredient in aquafeeds. Challenges for large scale adoption include variability in IM composition, production costs, regulatory frameworks, and the need to balance essential fatty acids when replacing FM. Integrating IM and SBM with traditional ingredients and refining feed formulations can support sustainable, nutritionally balanced aquafeeds without compromising fish growth, health, or product quality, contributing to the long term viability of aquaculture industries. The findings offer practical guidance for fish feed formulators seeking sustainable alternatives to FM. This knowledge can help develop nutritionally balanced and cost-effective aquafeeds without compromising fish growth or health.
Keywords
fish feed formulation, protein digestibility, growth performance, gut health, immune response
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