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Feed Conversion Ratio

Fish has a low feed conversion ratio compared to other animal proteins. We are continuously working to reduce our feed conversion ratio further.

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) measures the productivity of different protein production systems. A lower FCR represents a more efficient use of feed resources.

Efforts to improve our Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)

Excess feed is a waste of resources, may pose a local environmental challenge and is costly. Avoiding excess feeding is important to reduce the FCR further. We are working to specialize feeding operations, amongst other things by centralizing feeding in one or a few operational centers in each region. More digital tools and cameras applied in the pens to help assess when the salmon is full, reduces excess feed.

We are also measuring the economic Feed Conversion Ratio (eFCR), which adds mortality to the measurement. The eFCR describes the amount of feed required to produce one kilo of farmed salmon. It is calculated as the total weight of feed divided by net production (harvested weight).

The biological feed conversion ratio describes the amount of feed required to produce one kilo of farmed salmon. It is calculated as the total weight of feed divided by gross growth (incl. mortality). The ratio is an indicator of feed efficiency, reflecting how effective a feed strategy can be. The bFCR ratio is impacted by the ability of the fish to utilize the nutrients in the feed for growth. The ratio is also impacted by over- or underfeeding, causing feed spill or reduced growth, respectively. In 2021, we had a slight increase in the bFCR in Rogaland as biological challenges related to PD impacted fish appetite negatively, while BC had a positive development mainly due to mitigation of challenges related to algae and improved feeding control (less feed waste).

Protein efficiency ratio / protein conversion ratio: Protein efficiency ratio (PER) is defined as the gain in animal weight as a function of crude protein intake (PER = gain in weight, g / protein consumed, g). PER is variously affected by factors including but not limited to, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and the protein content of the feed. Based on normal assumptions, the PER of Grieg seafood salmon is approximately 2.23. This calculation is based on the weighted average content of protein producing a fish on 5 kilo. Weight gain is gross production in the period.

Feed Conversion Ratio

Efforts to improve our Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR)

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