Fishmeal and fish oil buyers are locking in coverage early as quota uncertainty and freight timing squeeze the first quarter.
Buyers across aquafeed and pet food are moving earlier than usual on marine proteins this season. With quota decisions still pending in key fisheries and container schedules stretched into the new year, many manufacturers are choosing to secure first-quarter coverage now rather than gamble on spot availability in January.
The pressure is sharpest on high-protein, low-ash grades used in premium pet food and starter feeds. Standard grades remain available, but the price gap between the two has widened, and lead times on documented, traceable lots have stretched.
Our traders are advising customers to split coverage: commit a base volume now and leave room to top up once quota news lands. Where specifications allow, qualifying a second origin or a partial substitution with poultry meal or insect protein is reducing exposure.
If marine proteins sit in your formula, now is a good time to review your forward position. Send us your spec and volume and we will come back with options across origins and delivery windows.