Did you know that about one-third of seafood is either lost or wasted? This is a huge problem for the environment and the economy, as fish waste can pollute waterways, deplete oxygen, and emit greenhouse gases. Not to mention the loss of valuable nutrients and income opportunities.
That’s why at Innopolis Bio Innovation, we are passionate about finding sustainable solutions for fish waste utilization. We are a company that specializes in process development optimization and engineering design for the food industry.
The Problem of Seafood Waste
Disposal of fish waste poses a significant challenge in both food processing industries dealing with fish or other seafood and local markets. In the past, households would handle fish cleaning themselves, disposing of waste locally. However, with changing consumer habits, industrial and household fish waste has become a pressing issue.
While some value can be added by converting a small portion of fish meat into food ingredients for patties and cutlets, this only addresses a fraction of the waste—around 2%. For fish processors, this waste disposal challenge is substantial and costly, not to mention the environmental hazards it poses.
In regions like Kerala, where fish processing for export is significant for the food and processing industry, the volume of waste generated can range from 10 to 15 metric tons per day, fluctuating with seasonal demand. According to a study by the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology, the annual fish waste generation in India is estimated to be around 6.3 million tons, which is equivalent to 18% of the total fish production.
The Solution: Innopolis Bio Innovation
At Innopolis Bio Innovation, we’re addressing this issue head-on.
Through process development, optimization, and engineering design, we’ve devised innovative solutions to tackle fish waste effectively. Our lab protocols incorporate the creation of various value-added products catering to the food, beverage, and nutraceutical sectors.
These products include:
Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for human health and have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties.
Taurine, which is an amino acid that helps regulate blood pressure, stimulant, and improve muscle performance.
Collagen, which is a protein that supports skin, bone, and joint health and can improve wound healing, elasticity, and hydration.
And more!
By transforming fish waste into high-value products, we’re not only reducing environmental impact but also creating economic opportunities and promoting sustainability in the seafood industry. Our products can be used as ingredients, supplements, or additives in various applications, such as:
Functional foods and beverages, such as energy bars, drinks, and snacks that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Nutraceuticals, such as capsules, tablets, and powders that contain concentrated doses of bioactive compounds.
Cosmetics, such as creams, lotions, and serums that enhance skin appearance and quality.
The Benefits of Fish Waste Utilization
Our solutions offer multiple benefits for the environment, the economy, and the society. Some of these benefits are:
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution by preventing fish waste from decomposing in landfills or water bodies.
Conserving natural resources and biodiversity by reducing the need for overfishing or aquaculture.
Enhancing food security and nutrition by providing alternative sources of protein and essential nutrients.
Generating income and employment by creating new markets and value chains for fish waste products.
Improving public health and well-being by preventing the spread of diseases and parasites from fish waste.
Join the Mission
We believe that fish waste is not a problem, but an opportunity. An opportunity to create a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for ourselves and the planet. An opportunity to turn waste into wealth.
We invite you to join us in our mission towards sustainable innovation. Whether you are a fish processor, a consumer, a researcher, or an investor, we have something for you.
