Evaluation of the nutritional potential of the by-product of oil extraction in feed for nile tilapia

Resumo

The growing production of olive oil in Brazil has resulted in a significant increase in agro-industrial waste, such as olive pomace, whose improper disposal can cause numerous environmental impacts. This study evaluated the feasibility of using olive pomace as a functional ingredient in feed for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), aiming to utilize this waste, its nutritional potential, and promote sustainable practices. Feeds containing different percentages of olive pomace were formulated, namely 0% (control), 50%, and 100%. The tilapia used in this experiment had an initial weight of 1 to 5 g and was fed for 45 days. Growth, muscle fatty acid profile, and intestinal histological changes were evaluated. Feeds containing olive pomace had a bromatological composition similar to the control feed. The feeds containing olive pomace had a bromatological composition similar to the control feed. The groups treated with 50% and 100% pomace showed significant weight and length gain, with no intestinal histopathological changes. In addition, an increase in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and a reduction in saturated fatty acids were observed in the fish in the 100% group, indicating an improvement in the nutritional value of the meat. The results demonstrate that olive pomace can be a viable alternative in fish feed, contributing to zootechnical performance, final product quality, and environmental sustainability through waste recovery.