Extrusion processing of aquatic feeds, Part 1
Depending on the extrusion processing conditions and ingredients used, different products such as floating or sinking feed can be produced.
Depending on the extrusion processing conditions and ingredients used, different products such as floating or sinking feed can be produced.
In the pelleting cost center, the ingredient mixture is placed in a holding bin above the pellet mill until it is pelleted.
The mixing cost center is the heart of the feed-manufacturing process. It is critical that it is under strict quality assurance guidelines.
Fishmeal quality is dependent on the freshness of the fish, oxidation of the fats and digestibility. Protein digestibility depends on processing conditions.
However, starting with high-quality ingredients does not ensure high-quality feed unless strict guidelines are implemented in all processing cost centers.
Ingredients are the major cost in the operation of a feed mill, so feasibility analyses should include real ingredient costs as well as manufacturing costs.
Before shrimp farmers consider an on-site feed mill for aquafeed production, they should ask themselves tough questions and ponder all the risks.
In the crumbling process of pelleting, whole pellets are crushed to produce starter diets used to feed different stages of shrimp in their early development.
Select pelleting equipment that best fits plant layout from vendors that specialize in drying and cooling, rather than buying complete “packages” from one supplier.
When feed pellets exit the die of a pelleting mill, they are moved to a post-pellet cooker or post-conditioner, where they are allowed to set prior to cooling or drying.