AlFunFeed develops fungal single-cell protein (SCP) from macroalgal by-products to create next-generation aquafeed for European seabass — closing the loop between marine resources and food sustainability.
Conventional aquafeeds rely on fishmeal and plant proteins that exert pressure on land and marine ecosystems. AlFunFeed introduces an innovative approach: using marine waste from macroalgae to produce fungal single-cell protein (SCP) — a circular, low-impact ingredient for aquaculture. The project combines biotechnological innovation, nutritional science, and life cycle assessment to ensure that SCP-based feed supports both fish welfare and environmental sustainability.
WHAT
Development of fungal single-cell protein from macroalgal residues.
WHY
To reduce dependency on conventional plant and marine proteins.
HOW
By integrating biotechnology, feed formulation, and multi-scale validation.
AlFunFeed brings together academic, industrial, and institutional partners under a 4H approach — harnessing knowledge from science, industry, governance, and society.
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Our partner CIIMAR participated in the European Aquaculture Society (EAS) Congress 2026, held in Ljubljana, Slovenia, from 28 September to 1 October 2026. The event brought together researchers, industry representatives and other stakeholders from across Europe to exchange knowledge and discuss the latest developments and challenges in sustainable aquaculture.
Professor Ike Olivotto from Università Politecnica delle Marche participated in ICFA 2026 in Miri, Malaysia, where he presented the AlFunFeed project and its contribution to sustainable aquaculture. The conference provided an opportunity to share the project’s objectives with an international audience and exchange ideas with researchers and professionals from different
The AlFunFeed project was presented during the Festa del Mare, held in Ancona from 4 to 6 September 2026. Professor Ike Olivotto and Professor Giorgia Gioacchini introduced the project’s activities and objectives, highlighting its contribution to the development of more sustainable and innovative solutions for aquaculture.