Study finds additive derived from sugarcane improves FCR and growth in shrimp and fish

Recent trials found that a new feed additive derived from sugarcane can offer key benefits such as improved growth rates and feed conversion ratios in shrimp and fish. Trials of the patented additive Polygain, produced by Australian company The Product Makers (TPM), were conducted in Bangladesh on three prominent species: shrimp, pangus, and tilapia. “The aim of the University trials, were to confirm the suitability of natural polyphenol product in commercial fish and prawn pellets used at low doses. The industry has been looking for a natural non antibiotic based growth improver and this has the potential to expand the value and volume of exports.”

September 6, 2018

Trials with the patented additive Polygain, produced by Australian company The Product Makers (TPM), were conducted by Dr. SK. Ahmad-Al-Nahid, Head, Department of Fisheries, Chittagong Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Bangladesh.

Dr. Nahid and his team of experts carried out extensive dose response trials on three prominent aquaculture species in Bangladesh: pangus (Pangasius hypophthalmus), tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii).

Some of the key benefits demonstrated during the trials include iprovement in feed conversion ratio – current feed additives yield 1kg shrimp for 1.6kg standard feed, as opposed to TPM’s feed additive that yields 1kg shrimp for 1.15 kg feed additive. In addition, TPM’s feed additives resulted in larger shrimp and fish.

Dr. Nahids trials identified the important addition rate of the feed additives for each of the trialed species. The optimum addition rate was determined after carrying out extensive dose response trials.

“The aim of the University trials, were to confirm the suitability of natural polyphenol product in commercial fish and prawn pellets used at low doses,\" said Dr. Nahid. \"The industry has been looking for a natural non antibiotic based growth improver and this has the potential to expand the value and volume of exports.”

According to Shane Mitchell, CEO, The Product Makers, “These are exciting times ahead for the aquaculture feed industry. TPM are ready to support the stock feed industry and the farmers to assist them in meeting the global need for protein sources including fish and shrimp. Demand for fish and shrimp is growing at an extremely high rate”.

The outcome of the trials represents significant potential for the shrimp and fisheries sector in Bangladesh to enhance output and expand exports. TPM has now commenced delivery of commercial orders of their polyphenol based feed additive in Bangladesh.

“The Bangladeshi fisheries and aquaculture industry can engage with Australia to increase the output and value of the fisheries and aquaculture industry and The Australian Trade & Investment Commission can support the Bangladeshi fisheries and aquaculture industry in facilitating linkages with the Australian fisheries and aquaculture technology and solution providers”, said Mark Morley, Trade Commissioner for South Asia, Australian Trade & Investment Commission, Australian Government.