7 Fun Facts About Lemuru & Tuna Fishmeal You Probably Didn’t Know
Fishmeal may appear to be a simple brown powder, but it holds far greater value—especially when it is made from lemuru (Bali sardine) and tuna by-products.
Whether you are a feed formulator, hatchery manager, or aquaculture business owner, the following seven insights will provide a deeper understanding of Indonesian fishmeal and its role in enhancing aquaculture production.
Lemuru Is Indonesia’s Strategic Resource for Fishmeal
Lemuru, also known as the Bali sardine, is widely utilized in Indonesia for fishmeal production. It is a naturally nutrient-rich species that provides an excellent protein source and is highly digestible for shrimp, tilapia, catfish, and marine species.
Tuna Fishmeal Is Made from By-products, Yet Nutritionally Valuable
Tuna fishmeal is not produced from the fillet portions of the fish. Instead, it is derived from the processing by-products such as heads, bones, and viscera. These parts contain significant levels of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) and minerals, making them suitable for use in feeds for broodstock and hatcheries.
Steam-Dried Fishmeal Offers Improved Nutritional Stability
Steam drying preserves essential nutrients better than other drying methods. Compared to flame-dried or sun-dried alternatives, steam-dried fishmeal has lower levels of free fatty acids (FFA), maintains a consistent texture, and produces a fresher aroma—making it particularly beneficial for shrimp and sensitive marine species.
One Ton of Lemuru Fishmeal Can Provide Up to 600 kg of Protein
Depending on processing quality, lemuru fishmeal can reach up to 60% crude protein. This level of nutrition supports improved growth performance, reduced feed conversion ratios (FCR), and more efficient feed utilization in aquaculture operations.
Indonesia Maintains Year-Round Fishmeal Production
Due to its tropical climate, Indonesia is able to sustain fishing and fishmeal production throughout the year. This consistency ensures a reliable and continuous supply chain for aquafeed producers and fish farmers.
Indonesian Fishmeal Offers Strong Value at Competitive Prices
Fishmeal from Indonesia is typically more cost-effective compared to Peruvian or European options, while still providing essential nutrients. This balance between quality and price makes Indonesian fishmeal attractive to international buyers.
Efficient Export Access via Surabaya, Bitung, and Makassar
Indonesia is equipped with multiple modern ports, including Surabaya, Bitung, and Makassar, which support efficient containerized shipping for fishmeal exports. With appropriate documentation and logistical support, deliveries can be handled reliably and professionally.
Conclusion: A Strategic Ingredient for Sustainable Aquaculture
Fishmeal is more than just an animal feed ingredient—it represents an investment in nutritional science, sustainable practices, and aquaculture performance. Lemuru and tuna fishmeal from Indonesia provide a versatile and cost-effective solution for modern aquafeed formulations.