Cost and impact of off‐flavor on U.S. catfish farms.

Objective: The objective of this study was to quantify the economic costs and impacts of off‐flavor on U.S. catfish farms. Methods: A survey was conducted to quantify the costs and economic methods using enterprise budget techniques to enumerate the costs of off‐flavor on catfish farms. Result: Diuron was the most popular‐choice algicide for off‐flavor management. Direct annual costs associated with off‐flavor management on catfish farms amounted to US$40 million/year. Total industry economic losses due to off‐flavor was estimated at $73.9 million in 2022. Conclusion: The study confirms the continued significance of off‐flavor in U.S. catfish farming and quantifies the associated economic effects. Impact statementEvaluating the economic cost associated with off‐flavor management practices provides insights into the economic significance of this persistent problem on U.S. catfish farms. This study found that the annual cost of off‐flavor amounts to $2325/ha and $0.272/kg, accounting for 10% of the total cost of production. The direct economic loss to the industry amounted to $40 million annually, with a total negative economic impact of $74 million in 2022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]