# Broadly Sourced Alternative Proteins Alter Muscle Metabolome While Maintaining Sensory Quality in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

## TL;DR

This paper explores how alternative protein sources affect rainbow trout's muscle metabolism and taste, finding that insect-based feeds are most favorable.

## Contribution

The study introduces a broad range of alternative protein sources and evaluates their impact on both sensory quality and metabolic profiles in rainbow trout.

## Key findings

- Insect-based feeds showed favorable sensory attributes and product quality biomarkers.
- Phylogenetically closer protein sources resulted in more similar metabolite profiles.
- Metabolic effects included changes in osmoregulation, energy, and amino acid metabolism.

## Abstract

Aquaculture is recognized as a key future food source,
and to sustain
increasing production and reduce the ecological footprint, new protein
sources are needed. However, replacing the conventional fish and soybean
meals may affect fillet quality. This study examined a phylogenetically
broad set of protein sources and their effects on sensory attributes
and metabolism of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Five feeds derived from microfungi, black soldier fly, mealworm,
blue mussel, and tunicate were evaluated against a soy-based control.
Sensory attributes were assessed using Rate-All-That-Apply, and 1H NMR metabolomics to analyze feed and muscle metabolomes.
Phylogenetically closer protein sources showed more similar feed and
muscle metabolite profiles, and only minor differences in color, root
vegetable taste, and aroma were found. Metabolic effects involved
osmoregulation, energy, and amino acid metabolism. Overall, insect-based
feeds appeared most favorable based on sensory results and product
quality biomarkers; however, all tested feeds remained viable.