© VRM Group
This centre completes the group’s integrated supply-chain model, combining animal science, nutrition and controlled aquaculture. VRM Group represents a unique Italian example of full vertical integration, managing feed formulation, offshore sea bream and sea bass farming, fish processing and distribution of fresh seafood.
An advanced, fully automated RAS facility
The NextFish Center is a recirculating aquaculture system composed of two departments (freshwater and marine) with a total of 48 independent tanks. The system is fully automated and remotely controlled, monitoring temperature, oxygen, pH, salinity and water flow in real time through optical sensors, level sonars and digital flowmeters. A triple filtration system – mechanical, biological and microbiological – allows for the replacement of only 2 percent of water per day.
The centre operates in synergy with NaturAlleva’s research and development department, enabling the validation of new nutritional formulations on a small scale before their application in the Group’s offshore farms, Civita Ittica and Kornat Ittica.
Key activities at the facility include:
- evaluation of feed zootechnical performance (SGR, FCR and digestibility)
- biometric analyses
- assessment of fillet nutritional composition, including fatty acid profile
- evaluation of alternative raw materials
- development of tailored feeding plans for specific species and environmental conditions Thanks to its fully controlled environments, the NextFish Center provides an advanced tool to supply external clients with the most suitable feed solutions for their needs.
“The NextFish Center represents a strategic asset for the entire VRM Group. It allows us to validate our nutritional formulations and develop solutions that improve the quality of farmed fish. Together with the recent ASC Feed certification, it represents a concrete step toward modern and responsible aquaculture,” said Ugo Biasin, chief executive officer of VRM Group, in a press release.
In addition to internal research, the NextFish Center serves as a technical training platform and a potential meeting point for collaborations with universities and institutions interested in innovative aquaculture projects.
