Off-flavor catcher for recirculating aquaculture systems developed by Luke and VTT
Challenge
Farmed fish can accumulate unpleasant off-flavors, which reduces their market value and consumer appeal. Off-flavors also cause significant additional costs for RAS companies, as their removal delays harvesting, consumes large amounts of clean water, and requires equipment investments.
Water mold, typically caused by Saprolegnia parasitica is a common problem in fresh water aquaculture facilities – in salmonid farming, it has been estimated to cause up to 10% annual production losses.
Solution
Luke and VTT have developed a capture solution based on chemically treated, cellulose-based fiber materials that effectively bind off-flavour compounds and S. parasitica spores from water.
In trials at Luke’s Laukaa aquaculture facility, the fiber material accumulated up to a thousand times more off-flavour compounds from water compared to untreated water. Fish grown in water recirculated through the capture material showed off-flavour concentrations below sensory detection thresholds.
At Luke’s Enonkoski facility, the use of the capture materials significantly reduced the amount of S. parasitica spores in the water compared to tanks without them.
Benefits
Efficiency
- In trials, the capture materials removed off-flavour compounds from water up to a thousandfold. Off-flavour levels in fish remained below sensory detection thresholds.
- The capture materials significantly reduced S. parasitica spores – something for which there is no safe and effective method available.
Improved profitability
- Off-flavours and S. parasitica cause significant global financial losses in aquaculture. These solutions have the potential to greatly improve the profitability of the sector.
Safety and environmental friendliness
- The method utilizes cellulose-based capture material, safe for both the environment, fish, and humans.
We are seeking partners for commercialization
Patent protection has been applied for both innovations. We are continuing development toward commercial scale and moving forward with preparations for commercialization. We welcome contact from companies and stakeholders interested in developing these solutions with us.
