UQ Researchers Turn Organic Waste into High-Protein Fishmeal Alternative to Curb Overfishing

University of Queensland scientists have developed a process that converts organic waste into biogas, which is then used to grow a high-protein feed for farmed fish. This innovation could reduce the aquaculture industry's heavy reliance on fishmeal, a product made from wild-caught fish like anchovies and sardines. Overfishing to produce fishmeal threatens marine ecosystems and food chains, affecting species such as tuna, salmon, and seabirds. By using waste streams—including food scraps and agricultural residues—the new method offers a sustainable, circular economy solution. It addresses both waste management and the growing demand for aquaculture feed, which is projected to rise as global seafood consumption increases. The technology also produces renewable energy in the form of biogas, adding environmental and economic benefits. While still in development, the approach could be scaled up to commercial production, providing a viable alternative for fish farmers worldwide. This breakthrough matters because it tackles a critical environmental challenge: balancing the need for protein with the health of our oceans. If adopted widely, it could significantly reduce pressure on wild fish stocks and help secure a more sustainable future for seafood production.