Norwegian Aquaculture Firm Takes Lead in Sustainable Waste Product Utilization

Over the past 20 years, the aquaculture industry has been working hard to find ways to utilize its raw materials more efficiently. One of the challenges has been finding ways to use the remaining material, such as blood, which is not typically utilized. SINTEF, a research organization, has found that about 94 percent of raw materials in the industry are utilized, with blood being the only leftover part that is not used.

One company in the aquaculture industry that has taken this challenge head-on is Lerøy. They have established a new department called 100 percent Fish to focus on developing innovative products using their own raw materials for new markets. One of their unique products is SalmoFer, which is derived from salmon and is known as the world’s first iron ingredient that uses haemoglobin protein from salmon blood. This product is highly efficient and easily absorbed by the body without causing common side effects seen with traditional iron supplements.

Mats Trones, who heads the 100 percent Fish department at Lerøy, expresses pride in their commitment to innovation and sustainability. He mentions that they are collaborating with various research and development communities, biotech ventures, and start-ups to bring more innovative products to market that add value and enhance the use of raw materials. While Trones does not reveal specific details about other projects they are working on internally or externally, he hints at multiple exciting initiatives both within Lerøy and through partnerships with external parties.

Overall, Lerøy’s focus on utilizing raw materials efficiently and creating value through innovation underscores their dedication to sustainability within the aquaculture industry. With a commitment to innovation and collaboration with external partners, they are leading the way in finding new ways to use waste products from aquaculture operations and add value for consumers while also promoting sustainable practices in the industry.