Skretting initiative secures NZ government backing to bolster King salmon feed

NEW ZEALAND – The New Zealand government has invested $455,000 (US$278,000) in a Skretting-led initiative to develop specialised aquafeed for King salmon, aiming to power the country’s growing aquaculture industry while improving sustainability, reducing production costs, and increasing high-value seafood exports.

Announced by Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay, the government’s support comes through the newly established Primary Sector Growth Fund, unveiled in Budget 2025 to catalyse high-impact innovation across agriculture and aquaculture.

The total value of the feed development project is $1.2 million (US$732,000) and is spearheaded by Skretting, a global leader in aquafeed. 

The feed will be tailored specifically for New Zealand’s king salmon and will play a critical role in advancing open-ocean farming, most notably at the country’s first open-ocean salmon farm, Blue Endeavour, which recently received its final resource consent.

“Feed is the biggest cost for salmon farmers. Getting it right is essential if we want to scale production and lift farmgate returns,” McClay said. 

“This is part of our plan to grow aquaculture into a $3 billion (US$1.83 billion) industry. With the launch of Invest New Zealand this month, we’re also making it easier for world-leading innovators like Skretting to invest and grow here.”

Blue Endeavour is expected to produce 10,000 tonnes of salmon per year and generate up to $300 million (US$183 million) in annual export revenue once operational. Skretting’s feed innovation will be pivotal in supporting this growth while minimising environmental impact.

Next-gen King salmon feed

Skretting’s expertise and long-term research commitment are central to the project’s success. Since 2019, Skretting has conducted advanced research at its facility in Okiwi Bay, refining feed strategies and validating new raw materials, including algae oil. 

The facility has enabled the development of groundbreaking products, including the world’s first King salmon feed free from fishmeal and fish oil; Skretting’s Infinity concept.

“This is about backing technology and expertise to lift productivity and strengthen the global competitiveness of our salmon industry,” McClay emphasised.

Melissa Abbott, General Manager of Skretting Australia, said the partnership marks a significant step forward. 

“As we look ahead to the future of the New Zealand salmon sector, this partnership is focused on delivering real outcomes, fast-tracking the insights gained at Okiwi Bay into tangible commercial benefits for the industry. 

Together, we are committed to advancing New Zealand’s King salmon sector through innovative and practical solutions that support its long-term sustainable growth.”

The research will focus on optimising feed for local environmental conditions, allowing New Zealand salmon farmers to mitigate price and supply risks associated with marine ingredients and capitalise on global demand for sustainably farmed seafood.

“This is another practical step in our wider plan to double the value of New Zealand’s exports over the next decade,” McClay added. “We’re backing sectors with high growth potential and supporting the science that will help get them there.”

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.