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Fish blood can be pet food

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14.07.2006

Fish blood is a hitherto underexploited resource. Newer technology is developed for collecting and preserving blood from fish.

The potential production of fish blood is about 12,000 metric tons in 2006, of which 3,000 tons are presently available for use. Salmon blood, for example, contains easily digested proteins and a high concentration of poly-unsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids.

Different techniques for conserving fish blood have been developed. The scientists at SINTEF Fisheries and Aquaculture have analysed the fish blood and want to exploit the product commercially. The analyses have shown that 12,000 tons fish blood contains enough proteins for about 85.000 people in one year, and enough Omega-3 to support the recommended dose for 25.000 people yearly.

Optimal method should be chosen according to the end use of the product, e.g., feed for pets, feed supplement for piglets to cure anemia, direct supplements to food, as iron or binding agent, or as a base for pharmaceutics and biotechnology products.

Aase Dragland | Source: alphagalileo
Further information: www.sintef.no

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