On 26 June 2024, the European Commission officially issued a new regulation, (EU) 2024/1755, based on Regulation (EC) No 1833/2003 issued by the European Parliament and the Council. This regulation regulates and authorizes the use of certain substances as feed additives for animals, especially fish. Approved additives include acetic acid, calcium acetate, and sodium diacetate. This regulation is a significant step in optimizing the quality and safety of fish feed in Europe.

Long Process Leading to Implementation

Regulation (EU) 2024/1755 has been in the works for several years and went through a long and rigorous process before being ratified. Beginning with initial research and laboratory tests to assess the safety and effectiveness of the substances, the process involved consultation with a wide range of stakeholders, including animal health, environmental and industry experts. A thorough evaluation is carried out to ensure that these substances do not harm animal, environmental or human health. After going through several stages of testing and evaluation, the European Commission finally approved this regulation.

Positive Impact on the Aquaculture Industry

The implementation of this regulation is expected to have a significant positive impact on the aquaculture industry in Europe. One of the main benefits is the reduction in cultivation costs. By using additives such as acetic acid, calcium acetate and sodium diacetate, the shelf life of fish feed can be extended, thereby reducing the frequency of feed changes and reducing operational costs.

Apart from that, this regulation also has the potential to improve the cultivation environment and fish health. These additives function as preservatives that inhibit the growth of microorganisms in the feed, ensuring the feed remains fresh and highly nutritious. This means the fish will get better nutrition, which in turn improves fish health and growth. A healthier farming environment can also reduce the risk of disease and increase fish survival rates.

Examples of Positive Impact

For example, acetic acid used in fish feed can improve the palatability and digestibility of the feed, so that fish can consume more nutrients needed for growth. Calcium acetate, on the other hand, not only functions as a preservative but also provides calcium which is essential for fish bone development. Sodium diacetate helps maintain feed quality by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Examples of Feed that are Positively Impacted

Some types of fish feed that are positively impacted by this regulation include:

Choline Chloride:

Used as a source of choline, important for the function of fat metabolism and healthy growth in fish. With the presence of approved preservatives, choline chloride in feed can last longer and remain effective.

Fish Meal:

The main source of protein in fish feed. The use of preservatives such as acetic acid and sodium diacetate helps prevent spoilage and maintain nutritional quality.

Soybean Meal:

Vegetable protein alternative commonly used in fish feed. Preservative additives ensure the soybean meal remains fresh and free from microorganism contamination.

Wheat Gluten:

A source of protein used to increase the protein content of feed. With the right preservatives, wheat gluten can be stored longer without losing its nutritional value.

For those of you who want to ensure that your fish receive high-quality feed that meets the latest standards from the European Commission, products such as choline chloride, fish meal, soybean meal, and wheat gluten that have been enriched with approved additives can be the right choice. These products not only provide optimal nutrition but also help reduce cultivation costs by extending the shelf life of feed. Further information regarding these products can be found at Tradeasia, a trusted provider of industrial chemicals.

Conclusion

With the implementation of regulation (EU) 2024/1755, the European aquaculture industry is expected to develop more rapidly, providing economic benefits while maintaining environmental sustainability. This regulation can also be a valuable reference for the global aquaculture industry in adopting best practices to improve the quality and sustainability of fish farming