Feed Conversion Ratio

Feed conversion ratio (FCR) is calculated as: FCR = Feed fed (kg) / Biomass gained (kg). It is the most important economic efficiency metric in aquaculture. A FCR of 1.2 means 1.2 kg of feed produces 1 kg of fish weight gain. Salmon FCR of 1.0–1.3 is among the lowest of any farmed animal (compared to chicken 1.7–2.0, pork 2.5–4.0, beef 6–10). Low FCR indicates efficient energy conversion and reduces feed costs (typically 50–70% of production cost) and environmental impact. FCR is influenced by species, feed quality, water temperature, stocking density, and management.

Atlantic salmon has an industry-average FCR of approximately 1.15 — meaning it takes 1.15 kg of feed to produce 1 kg of salmon growth, making it the most feed-efficient farmed carnivorous animal.