In a recent workshop organized by the Biotech Consortium India Ltd (BCIL) and the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, experts discussed the potential advantages of incorporating genetically modified (GM) crops and their derivatives in the Indian aqua-feed sector. The adoption of GM crops is seen as a strategic move to augment the supply of feeding ingredients, leading to improved growth, disease resistance in aqua products, and a reduction in overall production costs.
Dr. Vibha Ahuja, Chief General Manager of BCIL, highlighted the positive impact of using GM crops on aquatic yield. Specifically, she emphasized the role of dried distilleries grains with soluble (DDGS), a by-product of cereals in the distillery industry. DDGS, often derived from GM corn produced in other countries, has the potential to lower shrimp feed prices. Dr. Ahuja pointed out that local production of DDGS for shrimp farms could not only increase profits for feed producers but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.
Dr. A. Gopalakrishnan, Director of CMFRI, emphasized the nutritional benefits of incorporating GM crops into aqua-feed. He mentioned GM soybeans as an example, which can produce omega-3 fatty acids crucial for the growth and health of farmed fish. Given that feed constitutes a substantial portion (50-55%) of the total input cost in aquaculture, the efficient use of GM crops in feed production holds the potential to significantly reduce overall production costs.
The workshop participants collectively agreed that the adoption of GM crops in the aqua-feed sector could alleviate pressure on India’s fishmeal and fish oil sectors. This shift aligns with the goal of maintaining a sustainable aquaculture industry while simultaneously benefiting fish farmers and consumers.