At its Innovation Center in Dirdal, Rogaland, global food corporation Cargill has introduced a new feed concept designed to meet the evolving demands of closed and land-based aquaculture systems. Developed in close collaboration with pilot customers, the solution—named EWOS AQIUM—aims to address the growing complexity of modern fish farming.

Closed and land-based aquaculture systems are rapidly gaining traction in Norway, driven by ambitions for improved fish welfare, reduced environmental impact, and tighter production control. However, these advanced systems also require highly specialized inputs—particularly feed that can perform under strict technological and environmental constraints.

“When the operating model changes, the feed must follow. EWOS AQIUM is designed to function in production environments where stable operation and good water quality are essential,” said Ashleigh Currie (pictured), Technology Application Lead at Cargill.

Built on Years of Industry Collaboration

The development of EWOS AQIUM stems from several years of research and collaboration with fish farmers operating in deep-water, closed, and semi-closed systems. By combining operational data, nutritional modeling, and insights into raw materials, Cargill has refined feed performance specifically for these controlled environments.

“Instead of developing one single product, we have worked step by step to understand what actually affects system performance and fish performance in practice. EWOS AQIUM builds on solutions we have been working on for a number of years, but has now been combined and further developed into a comprehensive concept,” Currie explained.

Industry feedback has consistently highlighted the importance of environmental stability in achieving optimal fish growth and health—an insight that heavily influenced the feed’s design.

Prioritizing Water Quality and Fish Health

In closed systems, water quality, technology, and fish biology are deeply interconnected. The new feed concept focuses on improving fecal structure and maximizing nutrient utilization, helping operators maintain cleaner water and more efficient system performance.

Key benefits include:

• Cleaner water and more stable operations
• Easier and more efficient filtration
• Enhanced conditions for fish welfare and growth

Additionally, the feed is tailored to the unique conditions of closed systems, where factors such as light, temperature, and production strategies differ significantly from traditional open-water farming.

Proven Results in Pilot Testing

Early trials with pilot customers have shown promising outcomes. According to Cargill, the use of EWOS AQIUM resulted in a reduction of up to 60% in Total Suspended Solids (TSS)—a critical indicator of water quality.

– “Among other things, we see a significant reduction in the amount of suspended matter in the water, as part of a more robust particle picture and better overall system performance,” said Currie.

The feed also produces larger and more stable particles, allowing them to sink faster and be removed more efficiently. Fillet and tissue analyses further confirm that the feed meets the nutritional needs of fish raised in these controlled environments.

A Platform for Future Innovation

While EWOS AQIUM represents a major step forward, Cargill emphasizes that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution but rather a specialized tool for farmers seeking greater operational control and predictability.

“Closed and land-based systems continue to evolve rapidly. As the technology matures and we gain more operational experience, the needs will also change and knowledge will increase. Therefore, we will follow this area closely and actively use new insights in the further development of both concepts and products,” Currie stated.

For aquaculture producers investing in closed and hybrid systems, Cargill aims to position itself as a long-term partner supporting sustainable growth and innovation in the sector.