Revolutionizing Sustainability: Lerøy Introduces SalmoFer, the First Iron Ingredient from Salmon Blood

The aquaculture industry, according to research organisation SINTEF, has a residual raw material utilisation rate of approximately 94 percent. However, one problem that the industry has been trying to address for over two decades is the utilization of salmon blood.

Mats Trones, who leads Lerøy’s new 100 percent Fish department, expressed pride in the development of a unique product called SalmoFer. This product, derived from salmon blood, is the world’s first iron ingredient from salmon. Trones emphasized that SalmoFer is the only commercially available iron ingredient from marine raw materials.

SalmoFer utilizes the protein haemoglobin in salmon blood, which is rich in heme iron. Trones highlighted the efficiency of heme iron absorption by the body, as compared to non-heme iron. This efficient absorption reduces the likelihood of side effects like upset stomach, constipation, and stomach pain that are commonly associated with iron supplements. Additionally, heme iron absorption is not affected by the consumption of coffee, tea, wine, or dairy products.

Trones emphasized Lerøy’s commitment to innovation and sustainability through the development, commercialization, and sale of products made from their own raw materials to new market segments. He mentioned ongoing projects within the department, including collaborations with research and development communities, biotech ventures