Low trophic marine biomass will play an important role in the development of circular and climate-neutral human, animal and non-food applications. Low trophic marine species, like mussels, are low in the food chain. They do not need land or fresh water and obtain their nutrition directly from their habitat.
In addition, mussel cultivation in a hanging culture promotes biodiversity, takes up relatively little space and does not cause any physical disturbance to the seabed. Mussels therefore fit well in a circular food system.
The many possibilities of mussels
The potential of mussels is currently used to a limited extent. Mussels are full of health-promoting substances, such as vitamins, small proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. Research has shown that substances in mussels can relieve anemia in sole and help rats with arthritis. The potential for humans is promising including prevention of anemia, cardiovascular disease, anti-inflammatory effects and relief of arthritis and diabetes. In addition to mussels, other low-trophic marine species also show great potential as a source of proteins and health-promoting substances.
Fractionation
In order to properly utilize high-quality ingredients from low trophic marine biomass, the biomass is separated into different fractions. These fractions can then be used as ingredients for high-quality foods, nutritional supplements or specially formulated fish feeds as a replacement for fresh feed in aquaculture. This approach offers opportunities to develop new sustainable revenue models with access to new markets within a circular economy.
Source: Wageningen University & Research
