Insect-based barramundi feed launches in India

Insectika Biotech, in collaboration with ICAR-CIBA, has launched an insect protein-based feed for Asian seabass (barramundi) and aquarium fish. The launch of two feeds, YuM ToM for aquarium fish and Yum Pro for Asian seabass, at the Shrimp Farmers Conclave in Odisha.

The feeds, which included protein from black soldier fly larvae, were developed after two years of research and trials. They have been approved for use in India and offer several benefits.

These benefits include:

• Being rich in essential nutrients to support optimal growth and health
• Improved digestibility and palatability, leading to better fish welfare
• Reducing dependency on traditional protein sources linked to deforestation, overfishing, and food waste
• Promoting an eco-friendly feed solution.

Dr Kamlesh Mishra, director of sales and marketing at Insectika, stated that collaboration with ICAR-CIBA is important for achieving sustainability goals. He also noted that the partnership aims to advance circularity and sustainability in feed production, especially for exportable fish varieties such as Asian seabass. Dr Mishra emphasized that the future of food requires rethinking production, origins, and sustainability and that a responsible food chain provides opportunities for both environmental stewardship and economic growth.

Dr JK Jena, deputy director general of ICAR, mentioned that humanity often resorts to deforestation and overfishing to meet the growing demand for nutritious protein. He also said that Insectika’s approach to sustainable protein offers a natural and effective solution and that ICAR CIBA is happy to support Insectika.

According to Dr. Kuldeep Lal, Dr. Panigrahi, and Dr Ambashankar of ICAR-CIBA, the launch of YuM ToM and Yum Pro highlights the potential for scalable, nature-friendly solutions in aquaculture. They also stated that they are dedicated to supporting Insectika's efforts in India and beyond and that Insectika's focus on low-carbon footprints and innovations aligns with the vision of a sustainable and resilient food system.

The feed was presented at the Shrimp Farmers Conclave 2025 in Odisha, where over 500 aqua farmers, hatchery owners, and government delegates from India attended.