Fermentation Technology in Aquafeeds: A Review

Fermented feed, as a novel type of functional feed, enhances the nutritional value and palatability of feed through microbial fermentation. It effectively mitigates issues such as impaired digestive function, compromised immune response in aquaculture animals, and the over-reliance on fishmeal-based diets. This paper provides a narrative review of the fermented feed, its benefits, its common types, and the factors influencing its efficacy. Furthermore, it summarizes its beneficial effects in aquaculture animals, including growth promotion, immune enhancement, optimization of intestinal microbiota, and improvement in product quality. Despite its considerable potential to reduce costs and improve efficiency, fermented feed faces challenges such as limited industrial-scale production and little research on crustaceans. Future research should focus on database development, intelligent manufacturing processes, and comprehensive economic evaluations to facilitate its broader application in aquaculture.