Zeigler continues to lead innovation in aquaculture nutrition with Vpak, a scientifically formulated feed additive designed to enhance the immune system of aquatic species. Backed by over 20 years of continuous research and development, Vpak combines natural bioactive compounds, select immune-targeted nutrients, and proprietary processing technologies to deliver measurable improvements in animal performance, resilience, and farm profitability.
At its core, Vpak works by stimulating the innate immune response, equipping aquatic species with greater capacity to combat both viral and bacterial pathogens. Key features include highly concentrated active ingredients for low inclusion rates, unique processing technology that enhances ingredient stability and bioavailability, and the support of Zeigler’s technical team to optimize application across diverse production systems.
Recent enhancements to Vpak include a proprietary organic acid blend featuring new emulsion technology that improves bioavailability, manages inflammation, and supports optimal gut pH levels. This is complemented by a proprietary essential oil blend—a highly palatable, all-natural antimicrobial compound stabilized through advanced processing methods. These components act synergistically to improve gut health and bolster immune defenses against common aquatic pathogens.
Laboratory studies have shown that shrimp fed Vpak exhibited significantly increased hemocyte counts, enhanced phagocytic activity, and elevated prophenoloxidase (proPO) capacity—all critical markers of immune competence. Pathogen challenge trials with White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) and Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) demonstrated that Vpak-fed shrimp had superior pathogen clearance rates compared to controls. On-farm trials further validated these results, with Vpak-fed ponds achieving 10% higher survival than farm projections, allowing for increased feeding rates and resulting in greater biomass at harvest. This translated into not only more shrimp per pond, but also larger shrimp, driving improved profitability.
Vpak’s benefits extend beyond shrimp. In controlled studies with rainbow trout challenged with Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV) and Flavobacterium psychrophilum (Fp), trout fed Vpak for 30 days showed notably higher survival rates under both single and co-infection scenarios, affirming the additive’s cross-species applicability.
Importantly, Vpak delivers these health benefits without compromising growth performance. By, enhancing feed conversion ratios (FCR) and supporting consistent feeding behavior under stress conditions, Vpak aligns with aquaculture’s goals of efficiency, sustainability, and animal welfare. For operations seeking to optimize survival, maximize harvest yields, and improve disease resilience, Vpak is a critical tool in any integrated farm health management plan.
With definitive lab and farm results, and a legacy of Zeigler’s nutritional expertise, Vpak stands out as a trusted, effective solution for immune support in aquaculture.
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