Naked Clams to open a new sector in sustainable nutritious food production

The global population needs alternative food sources that are micronutrient-rich like meat and fish but have a lower environmental impact. This study introduces 'Naked Clams' (teredinids/shipworms) – bivalves with tiny shells that feed on wood, converting it into protein and essential nutrients. The research presents the first pilot system for Naked Clam aquaculture, the first nutritional profile, a feeding efficacy assessment, and demonstrates the value of microencapsulated feeds in fortifying Naked Clams. Naked Clams were rich in nutrients including vitamin B₁₂ and monounsaturated fatty acids, and had high protein content. Microencapsulated algal feeds enriched the clams with essential PUFAs like EPA and DHA. While further research is needed, this study opens a path to a new sustainable food production method.

David F. Willer, David C. Aldridge, Payam Mehrshahi, Konstantinos P. Papadopoulos, Lorraine Archer, Alison G. Smith, Max Lancaster, Alex Strachan, J. Reuben Shipway