Researchers in the UK are looking into hemp as a potential source of protein in aquafeed. However, salmon lovers hoping that this might add an extra mood-altering kick to their favorite fish are set for disappointment.
Rare Earth Global, growers of industrial hemp for a range of sustainable products, has received £50,000 in funding from the UK Seafood Innovation Fund (SIF) to explore how hemp seeds could be integrated into the diets of farmed salmon in Scotland.
With support from the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) and the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture, the project team has begun an initial feasibility trial to assess the impact of hemp protein on fish health and wellbeing looking at factors such as digestibility and nutritional value.
Researchers from the Institute of Aquaculture will be conducting trials at the University of Stirling’s facilities to assess how salmon react to different varieties of the hemp plant and any impact that the ingredient has on gut bacteria and the digestive system.
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