Three Danish companies Launis, Nordic Seaweed Feed and Mosegaarden have worked closely with the Danish Technological Institute and Aarhus University School of Engineering to demonstrate a profitable bio-processing method for the sustainable utilization of shrimp shells. The project has demonstrated the profitability of bio-processing shrimp shells with subsequent value addition to create new sustainable pet food products. Historically, residues such as shells and irregular shrimp meat have had limited value, and the majority of residues is not utilised today. Shrimp shells have a high content of protein with a favourable amino acid composition, good digestibility, low ash content, chitin, lime, and a favourable content of omega 3 fatty acids, all of which can be utilised in pet food. To exploit these valuable ingredients, Nordic Seaweed Feed has added shrimp shells to their fermented seaweed-based “Pet Food” products.
The project, which was funded by INBIOM (supported by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science), has developed different bio-processing methods for shrimp shells and a concept for upscaling has been modelled with on-site pre-treatment of side streams. The project results include the complete characterization with selected biomarkers (protein and glucosamine) and the testing of fermented shrimp shells, fishmeal and seaweed in various mixtures. In addition, experiments have been performed with approx. 600 cats where certain mixtures seem to solve some of the virus problems cats can have. The project concludes that there is a market potential for these products and that there is a demand for Danish produced pet food and dog treats. For more information contact Bjarne Ottesen at +45 50 40 94 70 or bjarne@nordisktang.dk or Karin Loft Eybye, +45 72 20 28 38, klt@teknologisk.dk