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Rapeseed Meal as an Alternative Protein Source in Fish Feed and Its Impact on Growth Parameters, Digestive Tract, and Gut Microbiota
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Department of Animal Environment Biology, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, 8 Ciszewskiego Street, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
2
Department of Microbiology, Prof. Waclaw Dabrowski Institute of Agricultural and Food Biotechnology—State Research Institute, 36 Rakowiecka Street, 02-532 Warsaw, Poland
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091264
Submission received: 5 April 2025
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Revised: 25 April 2025
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Accepted: 28 April 2025
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Published: 29 April 2025
Simple Summary
Aquaculture is among the fastest-growing sectors in agriculture. Traditionally, fish feeds are based on fishmeal and soybean meal as primary sources of protein, both of which are essential for the proper growth and development of fish. However, due to the limited availability and rising costs of these ingredients, there is increasing interest in alternative, plant-based protein sources such as rapeseed meal. Rapeseed meal, a by-product of the oil extraction process, is high in protein and presents a promising alternative. Given the diversity of species in aquaculture, the effects of including rapeseed meal in fish diets can vary considerably. Numerous studies have explored its potential as a feed ingredient, examining how it influences growth performance, digestive tract health, and gut microbiota. These effects often depend on both the level of inclusion and the duration of its use in the diet. This paper reviews recent findings on the application of rapeseed meal in aquafeeds and highlights key areas for future research, with particular emphasis on its implications for fish health.
Abstract
As traditional protein sources such as soybean and fish meal become increasingly limited, there is growing interest in alternative protein sources, such as rapeseed meal, in aquaculture. This review offers an updated overview of rapeseed meal in fish diets, highlighting its nutritional value and impact on growth and the digestive tract. It also examines the effect of soybean meal supplementation on intestinal microflora, taking into account the latest trends in animal breeding focused on microbiota composition. While challenges exist in incorporating rapeseed meal into fish diets, its inclusion holds potential for improving sustainability and efficiency in aquaculture. However, its effects may vary depending on fish species, rearing conditions, and the level of inclusion in the diet. Based on this analysis, further research is recommended to explore the practical use of rapeseed meal as a reliable protein source in fish nutrition. Future studies should prioritize fish welfare and health, with an emphasis on natural methods, such as fermentation, to enhance the nutritional value of rapeseed meal. Consideration should also be given to incorporating activities, such as phytase supplementation, to enhance the use of rapeseed meal in fish feed.
Keywords:
fish; feed; rapeseed meal; growth parameters; digestive tract; gut microbiota
