Fishmeal Feeds Livestock Farming -- Sometimes at the Expense of Marine Ecosystems

Fishmeal, a protein powder made from small wild forage fish, is increasingly used in livestock feed, but the practice is drawing criticism for potential harm to marine ecosystems. The article explains that fishmeal and fish oil are produced each year from hundreds of billions to more than a trillion small fish such as anchovies and sardines, plus processing scraps. Critics argue that removing these foundational species can disrupt the marine food web and add pressure to oceans already stressed by climate change, affecting both marine life and human communities that rely on larger fish. The report cites research and statements from conservation groups, including a coalition opposing offshore finfish farming called Don’t Cage Our Oceans. It also notes that aquaculture consumes more than 90% of global fishmeal, with pet food taking another share, while pig and poultry farming uses about 3% of demand. The piece highlights alternative feeds like insect meal, algae meal, and plant-based crops, while acknowledging trade-offs such as deforestation risks from soy and scalability challenges for insects.