The trial consisted of 2 groups – control and protein powder with three replicates in each group. It was conducted in Vietnam at the ShrimpVet demonstration farm for 77 days in 60 m3 round tanks with plastic lining. Shrimp samples were taken on days 20, 40 and 60 of cultivation to assess the state of their immune system using blood tests and enzyme activity. After the experiment was completed, shrimp survival and growth rates were calculated.
The results showed that shrimp fed EnzActive Protein Powder had statistically significantly better survival and growth rates than the control group fed regular feed.
According to the findings, the dose of EnzActive Protein Powder increased humoral immunity related to enzymes and blood proteins, which may indicate a better ability to resist infections.
“For the study, we used EnzActive Protein supplement in a low dose, only 0.05% in the feed. Even under adverse conditions and the presence of pathogens, the supplement improved the overall resistance of shrimp, increased their survival and growth rates. This means that at higher doses the effect may be even more pronounced,” says Olena Krasovska.
Key results of the study showed that the survival rate of shrimp that received the yeast supplement was 16.7% higher compared to infected individuals without adding the product to the diet. As a result, the overall survival rate of infected shrimp in the group with the yeast supplement was 43% higher (38.89% vs. 55.56%).
The group that received the yeast supplement also demonstrated a 7.6% increase in body weight.
In shrimp farming today, there is a desire for rapid growth of animals, which is often accompanied by a decrease in immunity and a high level of losses due to bacterial infections. A small outbreak can destroy months of hard work of farmers.
“Enzym Group has many years of experience working with yeast products in livestock to strengthen their immunity and productivity. The above-described study means for the industry that there is potential for using such yeast as an alternative to antibiotics or as a prophylactic to improve the overall immune status of shrimp. Now aquaculture feed manufacturers are quite ready to look for natural components to improve diets, increase feeding efficiency while reducing risks to the environment,” Olena concluded.
