Toward Resilient Aquaculture in Africa: Innovative and Sustainable Aquafeeds Through Alternative Protein Sources

Abstract

The aquaculture industry is a significant source of food proteins and other essential nutrients, providing the much-needed requirements for human nutrition. However, identifying sustainable and affordable feed ingredients for a growing aquaculture sector remains a significant challenge for the industry. The African aquaculture sector, in particular, is developing discernibly but faces distinct socioeconomic and infrastructural challenges. Elevated usage of fishmeal is financially challenging and associated with significant socioeconomic and ecological risks. This review examines the potential alternative feed protein sources for the sustainable growth of the African aquaculture sector while addressing associated challenges, including lack of processing technology and investments, availability, economic viability, policy regulations, social conflicts, and anti-nutritive substances. Alternative proteins have considerable potential for the African aquaculture industry in terms of sustainability and economic viability. By-products from animals could be the most promising alternative for the near future, as they are cost-effective, available, and do not compete with humans as a protein source. Insect proteins have the most promising potential alternatives but lack utilization and compete with human consumption. Shortfalls in processing technology, infrastructure, and targeted investments are significant bottlenecks that must be resolved to increase African aquaculture production.