Do salmon and trout feeds contain colouring?
Yes. Feeds for salmon and trout may contain astaxanthin, a carotenoid that contributes to the characteristic red or pink colour of salmonid flesh. Astaxanthin occurs naturally in the aquatic food chain and also has biological functions in salmonids.
Astaxanthin used in feed must comply with applicable authorisation and use requirements. Its source and inclusion level depend on the species, life stage, product and market.
