This report presents the results of an experiment performed by Matis ohf. for GITES. The trial objective was to investigate if the test products WH67 EG02can improve gut health and prevent and repair soy-induced inflammatory processes in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). To assess the effect of the test products on gut-health and growth performance, two sets of two experimental feeds containing the test products were consecutively fed to different groups of salmon. Whereas the first set of feeds contained 30% of soy protein concentrate (SPC) as the main protein source, the second set contained 20% of regular high protein soybean meal. Regular soybean meal should act as a stressor potentially inducing an inflammatory response in the gut of salmon. In order to quantify the inflammatory response, blood samples were taken to quantify expression patterns of inflammatory markers, whilst gut microbiome samples were taken to examine the microbial community across experimental periods and treatments. Blood and microbiome sampling were carried out prior and after challenging the fish with feed containing regular soy. The trial was carried out at Matís Aquaculture Research Station (MARS) in 10 circular 200 l tanks incorporated in a RAS. Diets containing SPC were fed for 56 days to quadruplicate groups of 12 salmon. Thereafter, these diets were exchanged for the diets containing regular soybean meal and salmon fed for an additional 14 days. Throughout the trial, fish were kept in 33 ppt saltwater maintained at 12.5°C. Both test products did not show a significant effect on fish performance or feed efficiency. The two products, but especially Evo Amaris, result in a stronger immune reaction when fish are exposed to a challenging dietary situation. An immune-stimulating effect, especially of the product Evo Amaris, can be observed.

Funding: GITES