Development and Scaling of Sustainable Feeds for Resilient Aquatic Food Systems in Sub-Saharan Africa (FASA): Report on a scoping study of fish feed ingredients in Kenya

Abstract

Aquaculture plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for fish globally. However, the sustainability of aquaculture practices relies heavily on the availability of quality feed sources. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in exploring alternative feed ingredients such as insect-based feed because of concerns over environmental sustainability, resource efficiency and food security. This study aimed to assess the potential use of insect-based feed in aquaculture practices in Kenya, with a focus on understanding attitudes, perceptions and willingness to adopt this innovative feed source among stakeholders in the aquaculture sector. Primary data was collected from 933 fish farmers across nine counties in Kenya. The survey questionnaire included sections on demographics, current feeding practices, attitudes toward insect-based feed and willingness to pay for such feed.