Aquaculture for all

Insect-based barramundi feed launches in India

Feed ingredients Barramundi / Asian sea bass +3 more

Insectika Biotech has introduced an insect protein-based feed for Asian seabass (barramundi) and aquarium fish, in collaboration with ICAR-CIBA.

A group of people at a product launch.
The launch of two insect-based feeds - YuM ToM for aquarium fish and Yum Pro for Asian seabass - at the Shrimp Farmers Conclave in Odisha

© Insectika

Developed after two years of rigorous research and successful trials, and including protein from black soldier fly larvae the formula was presented for the first time at the Shrimp Farmers Conclave 2025, in Odisha, in the presence of more than 500 aqua farmers, hatchery owners and delegates from the Government of India.

According to Insectika, the new feeds - YuM ToM for aquarium fish and Yum Pro for Asian seabass - which have been approved for use in India, bring numerous benefits including:

  • Being rich in essential nutrients, insect protein supports optimal growth and health for Asian seabass and aquarium fish.
  • Improved digestibility and palatability contribute to better overall fish welfare.
  • By reducing dependency on traditional protein sources linked to deforestation, overfishing, and food waste, insect protein helps promote an eco-friendly feed solution.

Dr Kamlesh Mishra, director of sales and marketing at Insectika, emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainability goals, stating: “We are proud to partner with ICAR-CIBA in advancing circularity and sustainability in feed production, especially for exportable fish varieties like Asian seabass. This collaboration aligns with ICAR-CIBA’s mission to foster a responsible food chain for future generations. The future of food necessitates rethinking assumptions about production, origins, and sustainability. A responsible food chain creates opportunities not only for environmental stewardship but also for economic growth.”

Dr JK Jena, deputy director general of ICAR, added: “To meet the growing demand for nutritious protein amid rising populations, humanity often resorts to practices such as deforestation and overfishing, exacerbating ecological degradation. Insectika’s innovative approach to sustainable protein offers a natural, effective solution. ICAR CIBA is delighted to support Insectika in this transformative journey.”

Dr Kuldeep Lal, Dr Panigrahi and Dr Ambashankar of ICAR-CIBA noted: “The launch of YuM ToM for aquarium fish and Yum Pro for Asian [sea bass]… highlights the immense potential for scalable, nature friendly solutions in aquaculture. We are dedicated to supporting Insectika’s efforts in India and beyond, as they aim to establish a global presence for their products. With a strong emphasis on low-carbon footprints and groundbreaking innovations, Insectika aligns perfectly with the vision of a sustainable and resilient food system.”

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