Finding new and reliable sources of protein has become one of the biggest challenges in animal nutrition. Traditional ingredients like fishmeal are increasingly expensive and subject to market fluctuations, which is why many nutritionists and feed manufacturers are now looking for alternative proteins that are both sustainable and consistent.
One ingredient gaining attention in recent years is feather meal, specifically GoldMehl®, a gently processed poultry protein designed for use in aquafeed and pet formulations.
What is GoldMehl®?
GoldMehl® is a high-protein ingredient made from poultry feathers. Feathers contain a naturally high level of keratin, which gives them a strong protein base. However, feathers on their own are not digestible for animals.
The key is in how they are processed.
GoldMehl® uses a low-temperature drying process that preserves protein quality and improves digestibility, making it suitable as a functional ingredient in shrimp feed and pet diets.
(This has been demonstrated in multiple feeding studies summarized in Goldmehl Newsletter Pet, 2019 and Goldmehl Newsletter 04, Aquafeed edition 2019) .
Why consider feather meal as a protein source?
1. It helps reduce waste
Feathers account for up to 7% of poultry by-products and are generated in large volumes every year. Using them as feed ingredients is a way to recover valuable resources instead of discarding them.
2. It can stabilize formulation costs
Fishmeal prices vary widely. According to trials referenced in Goldmehl Newsletter 04 (2019), feather meal protein performed similarly to fishmeal in shrimp diets at moderate inclusion levels .
3. It is digestible when produced correctly
Low-temperature processing methods help protect amino acids and improve nutrient availability. Studies summarized in the Goldmehl Pet Newsletter (2019) found that dogs digested GoldMehl® protein more efficiently than conventional feather meal .
Who can benefit from GoldMehl®?
- Aquafeed producers looking to replace part of their fishmeal
- Pet food formulators working on sustainable protein options
- Nutritionists seeking functional ingredients with consistent quality
In shrimp diets (Penaeus vannamei), trial results showed no negative effects on feed conversion or growth performance when GoldMehl® replaced a portion of fishmeal in the formula .
In dog diets, digestibility studies found good palatability and nutrient absorption when included at reasonable levels .
A more sustainable future for animal diets
GoldMehl® is part of a growing movement toward alternative proteins that make better use of existing raw materials. It offers a way to:
- Reduce dependency on marine resources
- Extend protein availability
- Support circular economy principles
As demand for animal protein grows worldwide, these types of ingredients are likely to play a more important role in formulation strategies.
GoldMehl® is now included in our product offering for animal nutrition.
If you’re exploring new protein options for aquafeed or pet diets, our team can provide technical information and product specifications.
