ICAR-Central Institute of Brackishwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIBA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BRC Marine Products, a seafood processing and export firm based in Dhamana, Bhadrak district, Odisha. This collaboration aims to explore the potential of rice distillers' dried grains with solubles (DDGS) as an alternative protein source in the diet of Pacific white shrimp (P. vannamei).
Rice DDGS, a by-product of the alcohol manufacturing process, is a nutrient-rich feed ingredient. After distillers extract starch from rice to produce alcohol, the residual material contains essential nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamins, and phosphorus. Known for its high protein and energy content, rice DDGS is already a favoured component in poultry and cattle feed and has significant potential in aquaculture. It can serve as a cost-effective substitute for expensive protein sources like soybean meal while providing essential amino acids and vitamins for growth and nutrition.
During the MoU signing ceremony, Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Lal, Director of ICAR-CIBA, emphasized the critical need for sustainable and cost-effective protein alternatives in aquaculture feeds. He underscored that diversifying feed resources is essential to support the growing demand for shrimp production while minimizing the environmental footprint.
Representing BRC Marine Products, S.N. Yadav detailed the company's innovative efforts in marine product processing, aquaculture, and bio-ethanol production. Yadav highlighted rice DDGS as a promising replacement for soybean meal, traditionally a primary protein source in shrimp diets. He explained that incorporating DDGS not only addresses the rising costs of feed ingredients but also aligns with the industry's shift towards sustainable practices.
This collaboration is expected to have far-reaching implications for the Indian aqua feed sector. By reducing reliance on conventional feed resources and promoting the use of locally available by-products like rice DDGS, the initiative could enhance profitability and sustainability across the shrimp farming value chain.
Both ICAR-CIBA and BRC Marine Products are optimistic that this joint effort will pave the way for innovative solutions in aquaculture nutrition.
