by Fishios
In the vibrant and evolving world of pet care, the demand for sustainable, high-quality nutrition is on the rise. Fishios, a new player in the aquatic pet food industry, is setting a remarkable standard by focusing on the specific dietary needs of nano fish, community fish and aquatic invertebrates, including shrimp and snails. Founded in October 2023 by Brittany Watts and Diana Elliott, Fishios is not just another pet food manufacturer; it’s a Canadian company rooted in a profound commitment to sustainability and excellence in aquatic nutrition.
The Genesis
The inception of Fishios stems from the shared passion of its founders, Brittany Watts and Diana Elliott, who are both avid hobbyists in the aquarium community. They recognised a significant gap in the market for high-quality, additive-free fish and invertebrate foods produced in Canada.
“Many of the high-quality foods we see are coming out of Japan and Germany. In Canada, these foods cost an exuberant amount because they’re imported, and there is limited and inconsistent availability,” Brittany notes. The limited options available drove them to create a product line that not only meets the nutritional needs of these small aquatic creatures but also aligns with their environmental values.
“Our goal was to create a product that we would feel confident feeding to our own aquatic pets,” says Brittany. “We wanted to ensure that our products were not only nutritionally superior but also sustainable and eco-friendly.”
Commitment to Sustainability
At the heart of this company’s mission is a commitment to sustainability. This dedication is evident in their choice of ingredients, production processes, and partnerships. One of the standout ingredients in their products is Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL), a protein source that embodies their sustainable ethos.
BSFL is an efficient and eco-friendly protein alternative. These larvae thrive on organic waste, converting pre-consumer food waste and by-products from the food and beverage industry into a rich source of protein and fats. This process significantly reduces the need for land-intensive crops in animal feed, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and conserves water and land resources. By utilising BSFL, Fishios not only provides a nutritious diet for nano fish but also contributes to a more sustainable food system.
“We are proud to partner with Oberland, a Canadian company that shares our commitment to sustainability,” Diana explains. “Their support during our R&D (Research & Development) phase was invaluable, and their BSFL provides a reliable and environmentally friendly protein source for our products.”
Natural Food Sources
The company focuses on the use of insects, such as BSFL, as they are a natural food source for many aquatic creatures. Insects form a significant part of the natural diet of many fish and invertebrates in the wild. By incorporating insect protein into their products, it mimics the natural feeding habits of these pets, ensuring they receive the nutrition they would typically find in their natural habitats.
“Insects are a natural and highly nutritious food source for many aquatic species,” Brittany explains. “By using insect protein, we can provide a diet that is closer to what these creatures would consume in the wild, promoting better health and vitality.”
Local Sourcing & Small Batches
The company places a strong emphasis on sourcing ingredients locally from suppliers across Canada and the US. This approach helps to reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation and supports local economies. By choosing local suppliers, it ensures that their ingredients are fresh, sustainable, and of the highest quality.
“Our decision to source locally is part of our broader strategy to be as eco-conscious as possible,” Brittany notes. “It’s about making choices that are good for our business, our customers, and the planet.”
In addition to local sourcing, the company operates on a small-batch production model. This method allows them to maintain a high level of control over the quality of their products and to be nimble in their product development. Unlike larger manufacturers, it can quickly adapt to new trends and demands in the market without the constraints of large volume runs and excess inventory.
“Our size is an advantage,” Diana points out. “It gives us the flexibility to innovate and respond to our customers’ needs rapidly. We’re not bound by the same limitations that larger companies face.”
Launch of Flakies Original
Fishios made its debut in the market with the launch of Flakies Original, a premium nano fish food flake, in the summer of 2024. This introductory product is specially formulated to meet the dietary needs of nano fish, providing them with a balanced and nutritious diet. It is made with sustainable and organic ingredients, ensuring that fish keepers can feel good about the food they are providing to their pets.
Following the success of this, the company is set to launch additional new products in September 2024: aquatic freshwater snail food and shrimp foods. These new offerings are expected to meet the growing demand for high-quality nutrition for these increasingly popular invertebrates in the aquarium hobby.
“There’s a significant interest in keeping freshwater snails and shrimp, and we want to support that by providing the best possible nutrition,” Brittany says. “Our new products are designed to cater specifically to their dietary needs, ensuring they thrive in home aquariums.”
Inspiration from Pet Food Industry
Fishios draws inspiration from the dog food industry, particularly the growth of premium natural foods. As consumer demand for high-quality, natural pet foods has surged, Brittany and Diana saw an opportunity to bring the same level of care and quality to the aquatic pet food market.
“Pet owners are more conscious than ever about what they feed their pets,” Diana observes. “They want the best for their furry friends, and we believe the same should apply to their aquatic pets. Our goal is to provide them with top-notch, sustainable nutrition.”
Looking Ahead
As the company continues to grow, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Brittany and Diana are excited about the future and are dedicated to expanding their product line while maintaining the high standards that have become their hallmark.
“We’re just getting started,” Brittany says with a smile. “There’s so much more we want to do, and we’re excited to continue our journey towards creating a more sustainable and nutritious future for aquatic pets.”
In a market where sustainability and quality are becoming increasingly important, the company stands out as a company that not only meets but exceeds these expectations. With their innovative use of insects, commitment to local sourcing, and dedication to small-batch production, the company is poised to make a significant impact in the world of aquatic pet nutrition.
By focusing on the unique needs of nano and community fish as well as aquatic invertebrates and prioritising sustainable practices, Fishios is not just feeding pets but also paving the way for an eco-friendlier approach to pet food production. For aquarium enthusiasts looking to provide the best for their aquatic pets, the company offers a promise of quality, sustainability, and care.
