When you think about soybeans, fish probably are not the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, after recently attending the Soy Aquaculture Alliance (SAA) board meeting, one thing became clear: The connection between soy and aquaculture is full of opportunity.

The Soy Aquaculture Alliance is focused on expanding the use of U.S.-grown soybeans in aquaculture diets. Bringing together agriculture and aquaculture creates a pathway for growth across both industries.

A Growing Industry with Untapped Potential

Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing sectors of food production globally, and the United States is just beginning to tap into its potential. Today, the U.S. imports nearly 90% of its seafood. At the same time, domestic aquaculture sales have grown significantly in recent years, signaling strong momentum with the opportunity to build seafood supply with soybeans playing a major role in this potential growth.

Soybean meal is a highly efficient, sustainable protein source that can play a critical role in fish and shrimp diets. By increasing soy inclusion in aquaculture feed, we are not only supporting fish farmers, but we are also opening new markets for soybean growers.

Illinois Soybean’s Role in the Bigger Picture

The Illinois Soybean Association’s involvement with SAA reflects a broader commitment to building demand for soy in innovative and emerging markets. Aquaculture represents a unique opportunity to diversify soybean uses, moving beyond traditional livestock feed and into a space with long-term growth potential.

Through collaboration with feed companies, aquaculture producers and research institutions, SAA is working to ensure that soy is a key ingredient in aquaculture feed. This includes investments in research, education and market development aimed at strengthening the connection between soybean farmers and fish producers.

Turning Strategy into Action

SAA’s work is grounded in a clear strategy:

• Advancing research to better understand how soy performs across aquaculture species
• Building partnerships across the value chain
• Increasing the use of soy in aquaculture diets

Recent efforts highlight how this strategy is coming to life. In 2025 alone, SAA invested in research focused on species like catfish, largemouth bass, rainbow trout and salmon. At the same time, SAA is exploring innovative concepts like integrated aquaculture systems and addressing challenges such as consumer trust and community acceptance, which are critical components for expanding U.S. aquaculture production.

Why It Matters

This work is about more than just feed ingredients; it’s about building resilient food systems.

Soy-fed aquaculture offers a way to provide a highly efficient source of protein for a growing global population, strengthen domestic food production, and create new markets for soybean farmers.

It is a clear example of how collaboration across industries can unlock new opportunities and drive meaningful growth. The continued partnership between ISA and SAA ensures that farmers remain connected to emerging markets and positioned for the future.

As aquaculture continues to expand, soy will play an increasingly important role in shaping its success.