World Bank Backs Use of Rendered Animal Proteins in Morocco Fish Feed

The World Bank Group has recommended that Morocco approve the controlled use of rendered animal proteins in aquaculture feed as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s fish farming sector.

The recommendation was included in the World Bank Group’s latest private sector report on Morocco. The report said current restrictions on rendered animal proteins increase feed costs and force producers to rely heavily on imported soybean meal and fishmeal.

According to the report, fish feed accounts for between 50 and 75 percent of aquaculture operating costs, with Moroccan producers paying up to 20 percent more than competitors in other Mediterranean countries.

The report advised Morocco to implement a 2024 decree that would allow approved rendered animal proteins to be used in fish feed under strict safety, quality and traceability controls supervised by Morocco’s National Office for Food Safety, known as ONSSA.

The North American Renderers Association welcomed the recommendation, saying rendered animal proteins can reduce feed costs, improve sustainability and support food security.

The World Bank Group also stated that the ingredients could safely replace between 30 and 50 percent of fishmeal used in seabass and seabream feed without affecting fish growth or product quality.

The report added that reforms in the aquaculture sector could help Morocco attract nearly 2 billion dollars in private investment and create about 75,000 direct and indirect jobs in the coming years.