S-PRO™: High quality and circular protein

The transition from traditional soy (meal) to circular protein sources with a low ecological footprint is well under way within the feed and pet food sector. The production of proteins extracted from insects, bacteria (SCP) and algae continues to develop and is gradually being scaled up. However, E.F.S. Holland will continue to promote, advise and sell oil and protein from salmon production to the feed and pet food sector. This is due in part to the many positive health benefits, and also because it fits perfectly into an animal production chain that aims to contribute to an improved climate through circular processes.

Valorisation

These nutritional streams are affordable, readily available and are proven to be effective in relation to improved animal health. Co-products derived from Norwegian and Scottish salmon – that are farmed for human consumption – are processed into high-quality feed ingredients. By-products, derived from salmon slaughter processes, are valorised through this approach into useful ingredients for animal feed. To obtain maximum concentrated protein with a low ash content, the viscera are used as raw material for the production of S-PRO™.

Protein quality

Salmon oil is produced during viscera processing, creating a liquid protein-rich fraction that still contains a small amount of salmon oil. This by-product undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis in a controlled environment. This process breaks down long protein structures into short-chain peptides and essential individual amino acids, creating the S-PRO™ product. The amino acid profile perfectly suits the needs of (young) animals and is an excellent alternative source of protein. The measured in vitro intestinal digestibility is 98%, making the product extremely suitable for young animals. This means an efficient conversion of free amino acids to meat and muscle gain. S-PRO™ is versatile and can be widely used as feed material for all animal species, except for cattle.

S-PRO™ is not processed further into a dry product due to the possible formation of harmful components. The required input of additional energy would also result in a less sustainable final product.

Pellet quality

S-PRO™ has a dry matter content of approximately 55% and a viscosity of 50 mPa. Various trials have shown that S-PRO™ ensures that pellets have high durability and improved hardness. Recent practical research, undertaken at the Feed Design Lab in Wanssum (NL), has shown good application and processability in the conditioner prior to expanding and extruding. An addition of up to 20 per cent creates a hard kibble and pellet.

Palatability

The hydrolysed salmon protein S-PRO™ ensures a high palatability level in feed. This effect is mainly due to the high glutamic acid content. E.F.S.-Holland has completed an acceptance trial involving cats; this clearly showed that the addition of S-PRO™ has a positive effect on feed acceptance and consumption.

Want to find out more about this circular, high quality protein source? Please contact one of E.F.S.-Holland’s specialists.