Foods of Norway has been conducting two pathogen challenge trials with Atlantic salmon at our state-of-the-art salmon fish facility. This trial marks a significant stride in testing innovative diets designed to fortify salmon against the formidable Yersinia ruckeri pathogen.
Salmon face a multitude of challenges, from vaccinations and changes in salinity to shifts in water quality and the rigors of handling. These stressors, though unavoidable, render the fish more susceptible to infectious outbreaks in both freshwater and seawater.
Yersinia ruckeri, the culprit behind enteric red mouth disease, causes havoc among various fish families crucial to aquaculture—think Salmonidae, including Atlantic salmon and rainbow trout. The economic toll of these infections is substantial, especially with the emergence of new Y. ruckeri strains, particularly the biotype II. Despite the development of a groundbreaking vaccine tailored to this biotype, its efficacy has waned, and antimicrobial resistance has loomed. The need for innovative vaccines and non-pharmacological interventions to bolster fish health has never been more pressing.
The immuno-nutrition strategy of Foods of Norway can be a game-changer in the quest to fortify fish against disease. This revolutionary approach involves tweaking the host’s immune responses through carefully curated ingredients and additives in their diet, enhancing disease resistance and overall well-being.
Among the ingredients in this immuno-nutritional strategy are β-glucans sourced from diverse fungi and seaweed. These compounds wield impressive immune-modulatory powers, acting as a shield for for fish. Additionally, microbial marvels such as the filamentous fungi Paecilomyces variotii (branded as PEKILO®) enter the spotlight. Packed with β-glucans and nucleotides, these fungal wonders not only boast a high protein content but also harbor bioactive components, making them promising contenders for the next generation of aquafeeds.
In the ever-evolving landscape of aquaculture, it’s clear that the path to optimal fish health lies in the fusion of cutting-edge science and nature’s own wonders. As we navigate the challenges posed by infectious outbreaks, the quest for effective solutions is ongoing, and the future of Atlantic salmon production will benefit from greater resilience and vitality.
Norsk bokmål