Researchers at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) have developed new technologies to address two major issues in land-based aquaculture: off-flavours in fish and water mould. These problems have long affected the quality and marketability of farmed fish.
The technology uses chemically treated fibre materials to capture off-flavour compounds and water mould spores in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS). These innovations aim to improve fish quality and enhance farm efficiency.
Hannes Orelma, Research Team Leader at VTT, explained that the cellulose-based materials capture harmful compounds from the water, preventing them from accumulating in the fish. This technology is particularly important for salmonid farms, which face significant losses due to water mould, sometimes up to 10 percent annually.
At Luke’s Laukaa facility, experiments showed that treated fibre materials captured off-flavour compounds up to 1,000 times more effectively than untreated water. Following treatment, off-flavour levels in the fish dropped below sensory thresholds, improving fish quality.
Researchers also tested a fibre material designed to capture water mould spores at Luke’s Enonkoski facility. The material effectively reduced mould spore concentrations in the water, offering a safer alternative to previously ineffective or harmful treatments.
Both technologies are now the subject of patent applications. Jani Lehto, Director of Luke’s Bioeconomy and Environment Unit, highlighted the potential for these solutions to boost industry profitability.
The next phase involves testing these technologies on a larger scale and exploring commercialization opportunities.
