FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The values in the ASNS are estimated through advanced nutritional modeling efforts based on the effectively compiling, integrating, statistical analysis and interpreting available research-based and production-specific data.
The FICD database has been constructed by compilation of information from a variety of reliable databases, scientific documents, and data obtained from the network of industry contacts in the feed industry, on the chemical composition and nutritive value of over 450 feed ingredients used in aquaculture feeds.
Numerous parameters and coefficients such as apparent digestibility coefficients or nutrient coefficients in the FICD are estimated using a series of mathematical nutritional models developed over three decades by the Fish Nutrition Research Laboratory at the University of Guelph.
Yes. The database is available for download. You can download the data from this website in CSV format. The downloaded CSV file can be opened in MS Excel or other spreadsheet software.
There are thousands of ways of producing 1 kg of fish or shrimp. Nutritional specifications are guidelines for formulation. Nutritional specifications can differ quite significantly as a function of a many factors, such as the digestible nutrient density of the feed, the type and intensity of the production system, prevailing environmental conditions, the genetic potential of the animals, etc. Moreover, market demands and local preferences may result in the need to formulate feed to different nutritional specifications to meet demands.

The IAFFD nutritional specifications have been developed based on nutritional models which takes into account the characteristics of each species and effect of several biological and dietary factors. The nutritional specifications suggested by ASNS for each species at their different life stages are generally for a “typical” or “middle of the road” production scenario. For some species, we are also providing nutritional specifications for different types of production systems (semi-intensive, intensive and recirculation aquatic systems).

We are highly interested in receiving feedback on the relevance of the IAFFD nutritional specifications. If you believe the IAFFD specifications are sub-optimal or conversely excessive, let us know by sending us your feedback through feedback form found on this website.
Chemical composition of feed ingredients can vary significantly from batch to batch. The IAFFD Feed Ingredient Composition Databased (FICD) compiled, integrated and reconciled information from a wide variety of sources. These chemical compositions reported for each ingredient is an average or typical composition. Feed formulators should adjust their feed ingredient composition data to the composition of the actual batched of ingredient they are using.

The FICD includes a series of coefficients that can allow users to estimate the nutrient contents (amino acids, fatty acids, calcium, phosphorus, etc.) of ingredients as a function of variations of crude protein, lipid and ash content of ingredients.

We are highly interested in your feedback. Use the feedback form on this site.
Unfortunately, users cannot directly upload data into the two IAFFD databases. However, we are always interested in receiving data from different partners. Use the feedback page to get in touch with us.
The models and data used in FICD and ASNS are frequently verified for accuracy, revised and improved. On average, these databases are updated every 4 months. A version number (e.g. Version 5.0) is included in the landing page of the databases. Please visit this website frequently to check for updates.
Stakeholders can contribute to improvement of the IAFFD through sharing data and technical information. We highly appreciate suggestions to make sure that this open-access, free-of-charge database is as relevant and useful as possible.

There are also opportunities for research collaboration with academic research groups.

Please submit your suggestions, requests, data and technical information using our ‘Feedback’ page.