Algae-Based Animal Feed Market - By Source, Form, Animal Type Industry Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast 2025 - 2034

Algae-Based Animal Feed Market Size

The global algae-based animal feed market size was valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2024, with expectations to reach USD 6.6 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 3.9%. Algae-based animal feed encompasses animal, poultry, and aquaculture feed products obtained from various species of microalgae and macroalgae. Algae-based animal feed can be used as supplements or as complete feed ingredients. 
 

Algae play a vital part in the nutrition of animal feeds due to their high value of essential nutrients such as proteins, lipids like omega-3 acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They enhance the growth of animals, augment the resistance to disease, and improve feed conversion ratios. In aquaculture, algae-based feeds and supplements aid in imitating the natural diets of the fish that result in the vigorous growth of fish. Furthermore, some algae have antimicrobial properties which decrease the need for antibiotic use.
 

Algae based feed, as it pertains to livestock and poultry farming, serves a greater purpose of improving health, meat quality, and even egg yolk pigmentation. Enhancing milk production and methane emission reduction from ruminants indicates some of the benefits of algae. There is also growing interest in algae feed pertaining to specialty animal diets, and pet food. Algae-based feed can reduce overreliance on fish resources, lessen the negative impact of traditional feed production, and provide an eco-friendly solution. Algae-based feeds also have new market opportunities because governments and other industries are trying to find low-emission solutions to environmental targets.
 

For instances, a study conducted in CSIRO of Australia indicates that adding 0.2% of the red seaweed to cattle feed can reduce enteric methane emissions by more than 80%. The highlighted methane reduction underscores cheap, algae-derived animal feeds that shift livestock farming towards climate-friendly practices. It stimulates new economic prospects as governments and businesses attempt to converge emission control policies with economic growth.
 

Algae-Based Animal Feed Market Trends

The market for algae-based animal feeds is changing significantly on account of macro and micro trends affecting the patterns of production, consumption, and innovation. A global mega trend driving these changes is the agriculture and livestock industry’s quest for sustainable practices. Algae feeds are being recognized as a more environmentally sustainable alternative because of their potential to decrease methane emissions from ruminants.
 

On the other side, new technologies, such as closed-loop photobioreactors and precision fermentation, are enhancing the scale and cost effectiveness of algae biomass production. These advances are addressing the concerns related to high production costs together with limited scope for scalability. Other micro trends are the increasing use of certain algae species, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis and Schizochytrium, for their functional methane reducing and omega-3 enriching properties.
 

The incorporation of algae-derived components into compound feeds, oils, and pellet supplements demonstrate product development. These ingredients can be used across all pet food, aquaculture, and livestock categories. The consumer behaviour regarding animal products is changing due to an increase in demand for environment-friendly and clean-label animal products. This, in turn, influences the type of feed selected. 
 

For example, in August 2023, ZIVO and Alimenta Algae SAC announced that they will convert its old microalgae production plant into a modern cultivation and processing centre. The new version of this plant intends to manufacture up to 100 thousand kg of dried algae products per year and will begin its operation during Q2 or Q3 of 2025.
 

Tariff Impact

Changes in US tariffs could drastically impact the market for algae-based feeds for animals. For instance, if the tariff escalated for imported algae or any other raw materials, the cost of producing algae-based feeds would increase. This eventually makes these feeds less competitive than traditional feeds which leads to a decline in the use of algae-based feeds. This scenario would be more common as the producers are smaller and these producers are price sensitive.
 

Also, there are new changes to the US tariffs on soy and corn which are competing feeds- if these are increased, the sustainability along with the lower environmental footprint of the algal based alternatives would make it more appealing. All in all, these competing tariff policies would heavily affect the strategic market policies and international competitiveness of algal based feeds.
 

Algae-Based Animal Feed Market Analysis

• Microalgae dominate the market of algae-based animal feeds as a result of their nutritional value and scalability. Examples like Spirulina, Chlorella, and Nannochloropsis not only contain essential proteins but also lipids and fatty acids which make them preferable for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture diet supplementation. As the global quest for sustainable and nutritious solutions for animal feed rises, the high protein content of microalgae combined with their eco-friendly production methods places them at the forefront for use in place of traditional feeds such as soy or fishmeal.
   
• For instance, in September 2023, Phycom secured USD 9.6 million investment to scale microalgae production for sustainable proteins and nutritious food. These investment shows a great market in upcoming years for the development of microalgae.
   
• Some species of macroalgae like Ascophyllum nodosum and kelp are slowly gaining recognition in the algae-based feed industry, though still not on the level of microalgae. Their benefits include containing key amino acids, trace elements, iodine, and other minerals. There are increasing applications of using macroalgae in animal nutrition because they can improve gut health, bolster immunity, and mitigate methane production from ruminants. Due to the low cost of upkeep and the lack of competition for land, research funding can increase the growth of macroalgae in ocean waters. Their use might become more prevalent alongside further research on cultivating macroalgae.

Based on form the algae-based animal feed market is segmented into powder and liquid. Powder holds the market share of 55.1% in 2024 and expected to grow at a faster rate of 4% CAGR.
 

• Algae-based animal feed is mostly available in the powder form that is most convenient (for incorporation) into conventional feed blends. Algae powders, especially the Spirulina and Chlorella variants, are rich in proteins, essential amino acids, and omega-3 fatty acids. The powder form can be incorporated into feeding pellets or granules and is flexible, which is beneficial for feed manufacturers. The powder form possesses great shelf stability which is important for transportation and storage. Also, it's easier to maintain specific dosages which help address the precise nutritional requirements of livestock, poultry, and aquaculture species.
   
• Liquid algae-based animal feeds are growing in popularity although still more limited than the application of powder. Microalgal oils for instance from are productive sources of key fatty acids like omega-3s that enhance the health, immunity, and growth performance of the animal. Even though the liquid form has drawbacks in stability and cost relative to powdered algae, its use is anticipated to increase, notably in specialized or premium animal feed markets where tailored nutrient delivery systems are necessary.
   

Based on animal type the algae-based animal feed market is segmented into aquaculture, poultry, ruminants, swine,     pets, and others. The aquaculture segment holds a significant market size of USD 1.6 billion of the market in 2024.
 

• Aquaculture stands out as the dominant share of the market due to the sector’s need for sustainable alternatives to high-protein and omega 3 feeds. Microalgae are extensively used in substituting fishmeal and fish oil due to their renewable and ecological value. Algae based feeds are more useful as they not only aid in obtaining better growth performance in fishes but also help in immunity enhancement, pigmentation and lower the dependency on marine inputs. Along with burgeoning global consumption of seafood, rapid expansion of aquaculture activities, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, make algae-based feeds crucial for sustainable aquaculture systems to help meet regulatory requirements.
   
• For instances, the volume of global fish production amounted to 1,906 million metric tons in 2024, up from 186.6 million metric tons in 2023. This growth offers market opportunities to the algae-based animal feed in aquaculture industry.
   
• In poultry, algae improve the quality of the meat and the color of the egg yolks because of its carotenoid constituents. In the case of ruminants, algae result in significantly lower methane emissions which aids in achieving emissions targets. The pet food sector is gradually incorporating algae due to its proteins as well as its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which attract premium and plant-based diets. Algae use in animal health, sustainability, and functional nutrition is drawing increasing attention. Though these sectors are smaller than aquaculture, they are investing more as the opportunity grows.

In the algae-based animal feed market, China accounts the major share in Asia Pacific by accounting USD 680 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.8% in 2034.
 

• In Asia Pacific region China maintain a strong lead in algae-based animal feed, owing to its extensive aquaculture businesses as well as high domestic market sustainable alternatives to animal feed and government policies aimed at fostering lower environmental impact agriculture. China, as one of the world’s top aquaculture producer, micronutrients such as Spirulina, and Chlorella are richly used in the farming of fish and shrimp for enhanced growth performance, immunity and survival. Also, domestically growing poultry and swine sectors are now more actively using algae-based feed additives for better feed conversion ratio and improved health of livestock.
   
• As a major international supplier of algae feed ingredients, China is supported by an advanced infrastructure for cultivating algae, low-cost biomass, and volume biomass production and extensive processing plants. It’s sustained growth in the field through agile biotechnology and precision agriculture technologies also aid in maintaining this competitive edge. For example, in 2023, retail sales of fish and seafood product in China surpassed USD 88 billion, with expectations of reaching USD 140 billion by 2029. This growth increases the need for algae-based animal feeds to be used as sustainable nutrient, supporting extensive aquaculture practices while meeting the country’s food security and ecological objectives.
   

Algae-Based Animal Feed Market Share

Top 5 companies include Allmircoalgae, ADM, Cellana, Corbion, DSM. These are prominent companies within the global market operating in their respective regions. These companies hold strong positions globally due to their extensive experience in market. Their diverse product portfolios, backed by robust production capabilities and distribution networks, enable them to meet the rising demand for algae-based animal feed across various regions.
 

Algae-Based Animal Feed Market Companies

Allmicroalgae: The company places primary attention on the sustainable closed and open photobioreactor systems. In the animal nutrition segment, Allmicroalgae provides functional dietary algae powders for aquaculture and livestock which are high in protein and nutrients. Their focus on European traceability and organic certifications combined with in-house R&D gives them a competitive edge in formulating premium and eco-friendly sustainable feeds in Europe.
 

ADM leverages its global footprint in agricultural affiliated businesses to commercial algae-based ingredients, often through international partnerships and innovation platforms. In the animal nutrition sector, ADM has ventured into the use of algae oils high in DHA for aquaculture feeds competing on scale, distribution, and integrated nutrition solutions. Its research-driven approach is supported by a broad supply chain and processing infrastructure, allowing for efficient commercialization of algae-based feed solutions, especially for global fish farming operations and specialized livestock feeding.


Cellana: Specializes in high-value feed grade ingredients used in aquaculture and livestock farming, having a core focus on omega-3 and protein-rich content algae feed.


Corbion focuses on traceability from raw materials to end products. Their advantage comes from fermentation of large bulk of products and strong environmental policies enabling them to supply premium animal feed based on algae on competitive prices worldwide.
 

DSM has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable animal nutrition. DSM, through the acquisition of Veramaris (a joint venture with Evonik), offers omega-3 oils extracted from algae as a substitute for fish oil in aquaculture feeds. Because of DSM’s scientific innovation and global partnerships, alongside its advocacy, the company is able to lead in setting industry benchmarks for sustainability and scaling algae-based feeds across numerous animal species.
 

Algae Based Animal Feed Industry News:

• In 2024, an Israeli startup, named Brevel, opened a new commercial facility with a capacity of a hundred tons, to produce highly functional and neutral-tasting algal protein. It is said to compete with soy and pea protein. The site will manufacture a white powdered concentrate of 60 to 70% microalgal protein, along with multiple high-value products.
   
• In May 2021, Veramaris opened its algal oil facility in Nebraska with an investment of USD 200 million, allowing it for commercial scale production of algal oil for use in aquaculture feed.
   

The algae-based animal feed market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Billion from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Source

• Microalgae
  • Spirulina
  • Chlorella
  • Schizochytrium
  • Dunaliella
• Macroalgae (seaweed)
  • Brown algae
  • Red algae

Market, By Form

• Powder
• Liquid

Market, By Animal Type

• Aquaculture
• Poultry
  • Broilers
  • Layers
• Ruminants
  • Cattle
  • Sheep
• Swine
• Pets
  • Dog
  • Cat
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
• Middle East and Africa 
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE