Aller Aqua introduces new concept to enhance trace element nutrition in aquafeed

DENMARK – Aller Aqua, an aquafeed producer, has introduced a new Trace Elements Adjusted (TEA) concept aimed at improving fish and shrimp health by expanding the range of trace elements used in feed formulations as the company responds to growing demand for more efficient science-based nutrition solutions in the global aquaculture sector.

The TEA concept focuses on broadening the spectrum of trace elements included in aquafeed and improving understanding of their specific biological functions in fish and shrimp metabolism, immunity, and growth performance.

Trace elements, although required only in very small quantities, play a critical role in enzyme formation and other biochemical processes that support overall animal health and productivity in aquaculture systems.

The company says the new approach is designed to move beyond traditional feed formulation methods that rely mainly on mineral premixes and naturally occurring trace elements in raw materials.

Jesper Clausen, Group R&D Director at Aller Aqua, said the TEA concept reflects a more advanced understanding of nutritional science in the development of aquaculture feeds.

“The approach goes beyond traditional feed formulation,” Clausen said, highlighting that earlier systems were largely based on standard mineral supplementation and limited trace element inclusion.

Robert Tillner, Group Product Manager at Aller Aqua R&D and lead of the TEA project, said trace elements are essential for enzyme activation, immune response and metabolic function in fish and shrimp.

“From our preliminary work, we already know that TEA will improve digestion as well as immune function in both fish and shrimp,” Tillner said. 

“This means better growth, less faeces to clean, and an altogether healthier stock, benefiting the animals and by extension the farmers too.”

Early development findings suggest the concept could improve digestion efficiency and immune performance, potentially leading to better growth rates and reduced waste output in aquaculture production systems.

The company says TEA reflects a broader shift in the aquaculture industry toward precision nutrition, in which feed formulations are increasingly designed around specific biological functions rather than relying solely on conventional supplementation approaches.

As global aquaculture continues to expand, feed producers are under increasing pressure to improve feed efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance animal welfare while maintaining profitability for farmers.

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