Expanding Aquaculture Opportunities for U.S. Soybean Farmers

The research director for the Soy Aquaculture Alliance says the industry’s rapid expansion is an opportunity to increase demand for U.S. soybeans.

Amrit Bart says soy is a consistent source of protein for aquaculture producers who are facing rising input costs.

“Aquafeed represents more than half of aquaculture production costs,” he says. “Even a slight change in a major ingredient of the feed has direct implications to profitability. Soy is the most reliable plant-based alternative to fishmeal.”

Bart says there’s opportunities for soy-based feed in the industry. “It delivers nutritional quality, supply consistency, environmental benefits, and economic value. U.S. soy farmers and feed innovators are uniquely positioned to support aquaculture growth where soy powered aquafeed can help the U.S. and the global industry expand sustainably.”

Creating lower-cost feed alternatives will require additional research and industry collaboration to showcase the benefits U.S. soy can provide for farmers, according to Bart. 

EDITOR’S TAKE:

With soy exports to China on the decline this year, identifying alternative markets is a must. Growing demand for fish products, such as salmon, creates an opportunity for soy producers. Acquaculture could be the growth market soy producers need going forward. Soy is an excellent source of protein and is readily available. Prices can be locked in using futures markets or forward contracts -- which could be the next big win for all concerned.

Do you have any aquaculture producers in your area? If so, you might want to put them on your list of potential customers or even visit them in person. Be sure to tell them about your CAD membership and the products and services you can provide, such as AgPack®, that ordinary dealers are not able to offer. It can help you conquest more truck sales!