Global Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2033

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Size

• The Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market size was valued at USD 3.78 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 7.11 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 8.20% during the forecast period.
• The market growth is largely driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and nutrient-rich aquafeed solutions, along with advancements in microalgae cultivation and processing technologies, which enhance feed efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
• Furthermore, rising awareness among aquaculture producers about the benefits of microalgae, including improved fish health, growth performance, and omega-3 fatty acid content, is establishing microalgae-based feed as a preferred alternative to traditional feed. These converging factors are accelerating the adoption of microalgae-based aquafeed solutions, thereby significantly boosting the industry's growth.

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Analysis

• Microalgae-based aquafeed, providing nutrient-rich and sustainable feed for aquaculture species, is increasingly vital in modern aquaculture practices in both commercial and small-scale farming due to its high protein content, essential fatty acids, and environmental sustainability benefits.
• The escalating demand for microalgae-based aquafeed is primarily fueled by the growing focus on sustainable aquaculture, rising consumer preference for omega-3 enriched seafood, and technological advancements in microalgae cultivation and processing.
• Asia-Pacific dominated the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market with the largest revenue share of 34% in 2025, characterized by advanced aquaculture infrastructure, high awareness of sustainable feed solutions, and a strong presence of key industry players, with the U.S. experiencing substantial adoption of microalgae feed in shrimp and salmon farming, driven by innovations from both established feed companies and startups focusing on high-efficiency algae strains.
• North America is expected to be the fastest-growing region in the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market during the forecast period due to increasing aquaculture production, rising seafood demand, and growing investments in sustainable feed alternatives.
• The Spirulina segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 38.5% in 2025, driven by its high protein content, essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids that support optimal growth and health in farmed aquatic species.

Report Scope and Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Segmentation 

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Trends

“Enhanced Aquaculture Efficiency Through AI and Precision Feeding”

• A significant and accelerating trend in the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market is the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and precision feeding systems in aquaculture operations. This fusion of technologies is significantly enhancing feed efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing growth performance in farmed fish and shrimp.
• For instance, AI-powered feeding systems can monitor fish behavior, water quality, and biomass in real-time, automatically adjusting microalgae feed quantities to match the specific nutritional requirements of each species. Similarly, advanced sensors and smart feeding devices allow farmers to deliver the right feed at the right time, minimizing overfeeding and environmental impact.
• AI integration in aquafeed management enables features such as predictive growth modeling, early detection of health issues, and optimization of feed composition for maximum nutrient uptake. For example, some platforms use AI to analyze data on fish appetite and water conditions to improve feed conversion ratios and reduce costs, while also supporting sustainable aquaculture practices.
• The seamless integration of microalgae-based aquafeed with digital monitoring systems and aquaculture management platforms facilitates centralized control over feeding schedules, water quality, and stock health. Through a single interface, farmers can manage feed delivery alongside environmental monitoring, creating a more efficient and automated aquaculture operation.
• This trend towards more intelligent, data-driven, and sustainable feeding practices is fundamentally reshaping expectations for aquaculture productivity and environmental stewardship. Consequently, companies such as Alltech, Nutreco, and Cargill are developing AI-enabled feeding solutions that optimize microalgae utilization and improve overall farm performance.
• The demand for microalgae-based aquafeed solutions integrated with AI and precision feeding systems is growing rapidly across both commercial and industrial aquaculture sectors, as producers increasingly prioritize efficiency, sustainability, and optimized growth outcomes.

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Dynamics

Driver

 “Growing Need Due to Sustainable Aquaculture and Health-Focused Seafood Demand”

• The increasing focus on sustainable aquaculture practices, coupled with rising consumer demand for nutrient-rich and omega-3 enriched seafood, is a significant driver for the heightened adoption of microalgae-based aquafeed.
• For instance, in 2025, Cargill announced advancements in algae-derived feed formulations aimed at reducing reliance on traditional fishmeal and fish oil, supporting both environmental sustainability and improved growth performance. Such initiatives by key players are expected to drive market growth in the forecast period.
• As aquaculture producers become more aware of environmental regulations and the benefits of alternative protein sources, microalgae-based feeds offer superior nutritional profiles, including essential amino acids, vitamins, and fatty acids, providing a compelling upgrade over conventional feed.
• Furthermore, the growing popularity of eco-friendly and health-focused seafood products is making microalgae-based feed an integral component of sustainable aquaculture systems, offering seamless integration with existing farm operations.
• The advantages of improved fish growth, better feed conversion ratios, and enhanced immune response are key factors propelling the adoption of microalgae-based aquafeed in both commercial and industrial aquaculture sectors. Increased availability of ready-to-use feed formulations and technological advancements in microalgae cultivation further contribute to market growth.

Restraint/Challenge

“High Production Costs and Scalability Challenges”

• High production costs of microalgae biomass, including energy-intensive cultivation, harvesting, and processing, pose a significant challenge to broader market penetration. These costs can make microalgae-based feed more expensive than conventional fishmeal or plant-based alternatives.
• For instance, small- to medium-scale aquaculture farms in developing regions may hesitate to adopt microalgae-based feed due to price sensitivity and limited access to cost-efficient supply chains.
• Addressing these challenges through innovations in low-cost cultivation methods, improved strain productivity, and efficient downstream processing is crucial for wider adoption. Companies such as Alltech and Nutreco are investing in scalable bioreactor systems and optimized microalgae strains to reduce costs and enhance output.
• While the price of microalgae-based feed is gradually decreasing, the perceived premium compared to traditional feed can still hinder adoption, especially among smaller producers or in price-sensitive markets.
• Overcoming these challenges through technological advancements, partnerships for large-scale production, and increased awareness of long-term sustainability benefits will be vital for sustained market growth.

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of species, Aquatic Animal

• By Species

On the basis of species, the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market is segmented into Spirulina, Chlorella, Nannochloropsis, Isochrysis, and Others. The Spirulina segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 38.5% in 2025, driven by its high protein content, essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids that support optimal growth and health in farmed aquatic species. Spirulina is highly versatile and can be incorporated into feed for fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, making it a preferred choice for both commercial and industrial aquaculture operations. Its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties further enhance its adoption.

The Nannochloropsis segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 22.1% from 2026 to 2033, owing to its rich eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) content, suitability for larval stages of fish and shrimp, and increasing research into cost-efficient cultivation methods. Growing demand for high-value aquaculture species is further accelerating Nannochloropsis adoption.

• By Aquatic Animal

On the basis of aquatic animal, the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market is segmented into fish, mollusks, crustaceans, and Others. The fish segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 45.3% in 2025, driven by the rapid growth of global fish farming and the widespread use of microalgae-based feed to enhance growth performance, omega-3 content, and overall fish health. Microalgae integration in fish feed improves feed conversion ratios and reduces dependency on traditional fishmeal, aligning with sustainability goals in commercial aquaculture.

The crustaceans segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 21.8% from 2026 to 2033, propelled by the rising shrimp and prawn farming in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Microalgae-based feed for crustaceans supports larval development, pigmentation, and immune response, meeting the growing demand for premium-quality crustacean products in both domestic and export markets.

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Regional Analysis

• Asia-Pacific dominated the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market with the largest revenue share of 34% in 2025, driven by the region’s advanced aquaculture infrastructure, high awareness of sustainable feed solutions, and strong adoption of innovative aquafeed technologies.
• Aquaculture producers in the region increasingly prioritize microalgae-based feed for its high nutritional content, including essential amino acids, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance the growth, health, and overall quality of farmed fish and shrimp.
• This widespread adoption is further supported by well-established commercial aquaculture operations, strong regulatory support for sustainable practices, and growing consumer demand for eco-friendly and nutrient-enriched seafood products, establishing microalgae-based aquafeed as a preferred solution for both large-scale industrial farms and smaller commercial operations.

U.S. Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The U.S. microalgae-based aquafeed market captured the largest revenue share of 82% in 2025 within North America, fueled by the country’s advanced aquaculture infrastructure and strong emphasis on sustainable feed solutions. Aquaculture producers are increasingly adopting microalgae-based feed for its high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, which enhance growth, immune response, and overall quality of farmed fish and shrimp. Additionally, the rising demand for eco-friendly and nutrient-enriched seafood, coupled with government support for sustainable aquaculture practices, is further propelling market growth. Integration with advanced feed management systems and the growing preference for reducing reliance on traditional fishmeal reinforce the adoption of microalgae-based feeds in both commercial and industrial aquaculture operations.

Europe Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The Europe microalgae-based aquafeed market is projected to expand at a substantial CAGR during the forecast period, driven by increasing regulatory pressure for sustainable aquaculture practices and growing consumer demand for healthy, high-quality seafood. The region’s focus on reducing overfishing and environmental impact is encouraging the adoption of alternative feed ingredients like microalgae. European aquaculture producers are integrating microalgae-based feed into both new and existing farming operations, benefiting from enhanced growth performance, immunity, and omega-3 content. Strong research and innovation in aquafeed formulations and increasing investments in sustainable seafood production further support market expansion across residential, commercial, and industrial aquaculture applications.

U.K. Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The U.K. microalgae-based aquafeed market is anticipated to grow at a noteworthy CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the growing emphasis on sustainable and high-nutrition aquaculture. Increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of omega-3 enriched seafood, alongside initiatives to reduce environmental impact in aquaculture, is encouraging farms to adopt microalgae-based feed. The U.K.’s robust aquaculture sector, coupled with investments in innovative feed technologies and R&D, is expected to continue fueling market growth. Additionally, government incentives and policies promoting sustainable feed practices are further supporting adoption in both commercial and industrial aquaculture sectors.

Germany Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The Germany microalgae-based aquafeed market is expected to expand at a considerable CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by the country’s emphasis on environmentally sustainable aquaculture and technological innovation. German aquaculture farms are increasingly incorporating microalgae-based feed to improve fish health, growth efficiency, and omega-3 content, aligning with consumer demand for high-quality and eco-friendly seafood. Integration with automated feed systems, research into high-yield algae strains, and a focus on reducing fishmeal dependency are promoting market adoption. Strong regulatory frameworks supporting sustainable aquaculture practices further strengthen Germany’s position as a leading adopter of microalgae-based aquafeed in Europe.

Asia-Pacific Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific microalgae-based aquafeed market is poised to grow at the fastest CAGR of 24% during 2026–2033, driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and expansion of aquaculture operations in countries such as China, Japan, India, and Vietnam. Increasing demand for sustainable and high-nutrition aquaculture feed, along with government initiatives supporting modern aquaculture practices, is driving adoption. Additionally, APAC’s position as a major hub for feed ingredient production is improving the affordability and accessibility of microalgae-based feed, allowing wider adoption across commercial, industrial, and small-scale farms. Technological advancements in cultivation, harvesting, and processing of microalgae further accelerate regional market growth.

Japan Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The Japan microalgae-based aquafeed market is gaining momentum due to the country’s high-tech aquaculture practices, focus on seafood quality, and growing preference for nutrient-rich feed. Japanese producers are adopting microalgae-based feed to enhance growth performance, immune response, and omega-3 content in farmed fish and shrimp. The integration of advanced feeding systems and continuous research in microalgae cultivation technology supports efficient and sustainable aquaculture operations. Moreover, Japan’s aging population and focus on health-conscious seafood consumption are likely to further drive demand for high-quality, microalgae-enriched aquafeed across both commercial and industrial aquaculture sectors.

China Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Insight

The China microalgae-based aquafeed market accounted for the largest revenue share in Asia-Pacific in 2025, attributed to the country’s massive aquaculture industry, rapid urbanization, and high demand for sustainable seafood. China is one of the largest consumers and producers of farmed fish and shrimp, and microalgae-based feed is increasingly used to enhance nutritional value, growth performance, and feed efficiency. Government support for sustainable aquaculture, technological advancements in feed formulation, and the presence of domestic microalgae manufacturers providing cost-effective solutions are key factors propelling the market. Additionally, rising export demand for high-quality seafood is encouraging widespread adoption of microalgae-based aquafeed in commercial and industrial aquaculture farms.

Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market Share

The Microalgae-based Aquafeed industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

•  Cyanotech Corporation (U.S.)
•  Alltech Inc. (U.S.)
•  ADM Animal Nutrition (U.S.)
•  DSM Nutritional Products (Netherlands)
•  NutraGreen Biotech (China)
•  Algatech (Israel)
•  Parry Nutraceuticals (India)
•  Earthrise Nutritionals (U.S.)
•  Qualitas Health (Mexico)
•  Blue Biotech International (Germany)
•  FutureCeuticals (U.S.)
•  Corbion N.V. (Netherlands)
•  AquaGreen (Norway)
•  Heliae Development LLC (U.S.)
•  AlgEn Inc. (U.S.)
•  Valensa International (U.S.)
•  Seagarden AS (Norway)
•  Biocel Corporation (China)
•  Algomed (Germany)
•  Microrganics (India)

What are the Recent Developments in Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market?

• In April 2024, Cyanotech Corporation, a global leader in microalgae cultivation, launched a strategic initiative in South Africa to supply high-quality Spirulina and Chlorella-based aquafeed to local aquaculture farms. This initiative underscores the company’s dedication to promoting sustainable and nutrient-rich feed solutions tailored to the growing aquaculture industry in the region. By leveraging its global expertise in microalgae production and processing, Cyanotech aims to improve fish growth performance and overall farm productivity, reinforcing its position in the rapidly expanding Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market.
• In March 2024, Alltech Inc., a U.S.-based animal nutrition company, introduced its latest Nannochloropsis-enriched feed product for commercial shrimp and fish farms. The innovative feed formulation is designed to enhance immune response, growth rates, and omega-3 fatty acid content in farmed aquatic species. This development highlights Alltech’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable aquafeed solutions that address both nutritional needs and environmental concerns, ensuring healthier aquaculture operations worldwide.
• In March 2024, ADM Animal Nutrition successfully deployed a large-scale microalgae-based feed program in India, aimed at improving aquaculture productivity and sustainability in major fish and shrimp farms. The initiative leverages advanced microalgae cultivation and processing technologies to provide nutrient-dense feed, underscoring ADM’s focus on promoting eco-friendly aquaculture practices. The program highlights the growing significance of microalgae-based feed in enhancing aquaculture efficiency and supporting the development of more resilient, sustainable seafood production systems.
• In February 2024, DSM Nutritional Products, a leading provider of omega-3 enriched microalgae feed, announced a strategic partnership with the Southeast Asian Aquaculture Alliance to expand the availability of microalgae-based feed across key aquaculture markets. The collaboration is designed to enhance feed quality, boost farmed fish health, and streamline supply chains for producers. This initiative underscores DSM’s commitment to innovation and operational effectiveness within the aquaculture sector, supporting sustainable and profitable farming practices.
• In January 2024, NutraGreen Biotech, a specialist in Chlorella and Isochrysis-based aquafeed solutions, unveiled its latest high-performance microalgae feed product at the Global Aquaculture Expo 2024. The feed, enriched with essential proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, is engineered to improve growth rates, feed conversion ratios, and immunity in farmed aquatic species. This launch highlights NutraGreen Biotech’s focus on integrating advanced biotechnology into aquaculture nutrition, providing farmers with sustainable, high-quality feed solutions while driving growth in the Microalgae-based Aquafeed Market.

SKU-74958