Chilean biotech startup, AQUIT Corporation, has emerged as a frontrunner in addressing the challenges posed by antibiotic use in the global aquaculture industry. Their groundbreaking solution, a dietary supplement leveraging a key fish protein to enhance salmon immunity without triggering inflammatory reactions, positions them as finalists for the prestigious 2023 Responsible Seafood Innovation Award in the aquaculture category.
As the aquaculture sector grapples with the delicate balance between disease control and the looming threat of antibiotic resistance, AQUIT’s innovative approach offers a lifeline. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s warnings about the overuse of antibiotics underscore the urgent need for sustainable alternatives in the face of a changing climate.
A result of over a decade of dedicated research and development, AQUIT’s supplement relies on a naturally occurring fish protein. Administered as part of the regular feeding cycle, it stimulates the production of antimicrobial peptides, fortifying salmon against infections without harmful side effects. The protein’s biodegradability and self-regulating mechanisms within fish contribute to its environmental friendliness.
CEO Daniela Allerbon emphasizes the company’s commitment to addressing the antibiotic resistance challenge while improving animal welfare and ensuring sustainable production. The acknowledgment as a finalist for the Innovation Award reflects AQUIT’s dedication to revolutionizing the aquaculture industry through responsible and forward-thinking practices.