Fishmeal
Fishmeal is a dried, milled protein product obtained from whole fish, fish wastes or by‑products of fish processing. It is traded as a bulk commodity for use as a high‑protein ingredient in animal feeds and related industries.
Prices, specifications and international trade for fishmeal under HS 230120.
Fishmeal Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Fishmeal is quoted in USD/t at PER. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
Explore fishmeal pricesFishmeal Exports and Imports
Chile led reported fishmeal exports in 2025, at $541M.
Compare fishmeal exporting countriesFishmeal Specifications and Quality
Fishmeal grading factors include Moisture, Crude Protein, and Crude Fat.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for fishmeal considers Moisture, Crude Protein, and Crude Fat.
- Moisture
Maximum moisture content; low moisture limits microbial growth and preserves nutritional value.
- Crude Protein
Minimum protein content; higher protein is valued for feed formulation.
- Crude Fat
Maximum fat content; excess fat can lead to oxidation and handling issues.
- Acid‑insoluble ash
Maximum ash that is not soluble in acid; indicates mineral contamination.
- Total ash
Maximum total mineral residue; high ash reduces protein density.
- Calcium
Minimum calcium level; important for bone development in livestock.
- Phosphorus
Minimum phosphorus level; essential mineral for animal nutrition.
- Sodium chloride
Maximum salt content; excess salt can affect feed palatability.
- Particle size
Mesh size through which 99 % of material must pass; finer particles improve mixability.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for fishmeal include Histamine formation, Lipid oxidation, and Gizzerosine formation.
- Histamine formation
Develops when raw material is not kept fresh; high histamine can cause off‑flavours and health concerns.
- Lipid oxidation
Oxidation of residual polyunsaturated fats during overheating or prolonged storage reduces palatability and nutrient value.
- Gizzerosine formation
A heat‑damage product from excessive drying temperatures; can cause gizzard erosion in poultry.
- Microbial contamination
Introduced during post‑cooking handling, drying, or storage; can include Salmonella and other pathogens.
- Environmental contaminants
Presence of dioxins, PCBs or heavy metals inherited from source fish species and fishing areas.
Certifications
Certifications documented for fishmeal include NOAA SIP inspection. Their applicability depends on the individual product and shipment.
- NOAA SIP inspection
Inspection and certification of fishmeal for compliance with U.S. import and safety requirements.
Fishmeal Facts and HS Code
Fishmeal belongs to seafood within protein and dairy. Its customs classification covers HS 230120.
Fishmeal HS Code
| Also known as | fish meal, fish flour, fish pellets |
|---|---|
| Product type | Intermediate |
| Form | Milled |
| Position in the chain | By product |
| Category | Seafood — Protein and dairy |
| HS codes | 230120 |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | PER |
Production & Handling
Fishmeal storage guidance: Stored in dry, cool conditions, protected from moisture, typically in high‑density polyethylene or jute bags with a polyethylene liner.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | Low |
|---|---|
| Storage conditions | Stored in dry, cool conditions, protected from moisture, typically in high‑density polyethylene or jute bags with a polyethylene liner. |
| Production methods | Wild capture, Aquaculture |
| Processing steps |
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Packaging
Typical fishmeal packaging includes HDPE or jute bags.
- HDPE or jute bags
High‑density polyethylene bags or jute bags with a polyethylene liner, sealed to protect against moisture and contamination.
Uses & Risks
Fishmeal is used in Aquafeed, Livestock feed, and Pet food.
End Uses
- Aquafeed
Primary protein source in feeds for farmed fish and shrimp.
- Livestock feed
Supplemental protein in feeds for cattle, pigs and poultry.
- Pet food
Ingredient in commercial dog and cat diets.
- Industrial applications
Used in fertilizer and other non‑food industrial products.
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Aquaculture, Livestock feed manufacturers, Pet food producers, Fertilizer industry |
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