Introduction: Why Fishmeal and Fish Oil Matter in Aquaculture
Every year, millions of tons of small pelagic fish such as anchovies and sardines are harvested and processed into fishmeal and fish oil (FMFO)—critical feed ingredients in global aquaculture. These products support the rapid growth of farmed species like salmon and shrimp, playing a key role in meeting rising seafood demand. However, the environmental, social, and economic impacts of FMFO production are often overlooked.
A groundbreaking 2025 study by the University of British Columbia (UBC), published in Science Advances, presents the first-ever global open-source map of fishmeal and fish oil factories. This new resource exposes the distribution, ownership, and potential impact of over 500 FMFO facilities across 63 countries, providing essential data for improving transparency and sustainability in aquaculture feed supply chains.
Key Findings: Where Are Fishmeal and Fish Oil Factories Located?
- 506 factories identified globally.
- Top FMFO-producing countries include:
- Peru (125 factories)
- Mauritania (42 factories)
- Chile (significant concentration)
- Factories are especially dense in ecologically vulnerable and fishery-stressed regions, such as West Africa and Southeast Asia.
Why This Data Matters: Sustainability, Food Security, and Equity
The study reveals that nearly 40% of FMFO is still produced from whole wild-caught fish, rather than from by-products. These fish are not only vital to marine food webs but also provide essential nutrition to low-income coastal communities. Heavy extraction in these areas raises serious concerns about food security, biodiversity, and justice in resource use.
Dr. Rashid Sumaila, co-author and professor at UBC’s Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries, emphasizes,
“This is not just about environmental impact—it’s about fairness, equity, and the livelihoods of millions.”
How Was the Data Collected?
To build this global FMFO map, researchers used:
- Satellite imagery
- Government and industry databases
- Company websites and certification data
- Open-source verification techniques
Each factory’s location and production type (verified vs. unverified) were color-coded to show accuracy levels and data availability.
Regional Disparities and Efficiency Insights
While some countries like Peru lead in factory count, others like Norway and Denmark produce large volumes with fewer facilities, thanks to advanced technologies and efficient processing systems.
However, China, a major player in FMFO production, remains underrepresented due to data opacity, language barriers, and limited online transparency from private companies.
The Path Forward: Transparency, Alternatives, and Smarter Policies
The study underlines the urgent need for:
- Better transparency and data sharing
- Regulation of FMFO sourcing and trade
- Investment in sustainable feed alternatives, including:
- Plant-based proteins
- Insect meal
- By-products from seafood processing
Frameworks like the Fisheries Transparency Initiative (FiTI) are highlighted as powerful tools to improve governance. For example, Mauritania, a FiTI member, provides public factory data, setting a precedent for others.
Lead author Lauren Shea notes:
“Transparent supply chains are crucial. With accurate, accessible data, we can support more ethical and sustainable aquaculture practices worldwide.”
Conclusion: Mapping a More Sustainable Aquaculture Future
As the world increasingly turns to aquaculture to feed its growing population, understanding where and how fishmeal and fish oil are produced is crucial. This new global FMFO database empowers researchers, policymakers, and consumers to make informed decisions and advocate for responsible seafood production.
For a sustainable blue economy, data, policy, and ethics must align—from ocean to plate.
Citation:
Lauren A. Shea et al. Spatial Distribution of Fishmeal and Fish Oil Factories Around the Globe, Science Advances (2025). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adr6921
Source: University of British Columbia