Best Protein-Rich Fish Food of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Protein-rich fish food is a great way to keep your aquatic pets healthy and thriving. These specially formulated fish foods contain high levels of protein, which is essential for the growth and maintenance of fish. Protein-rich fish food is available in a variety of forms, including pellets, flakes, and frozen options. Many of these products also contain additional nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, which help to promote overall fish health. Whether you have a small home aquarium or a large aquatic facility, protein-rich fish food is a must-have for any fish owner looking to provide their pets with the best possible care.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Betta Pro Shrimp Patties Cover #TOP 1
Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Betta Pro Shrimp Patties
ftb score rating icon 9.8
San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Cyclops Cover #TOP 2
San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Cyclops
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Zewa Feeds Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Fish Food Cover #TOP 3
Zewa Feeds Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Fish Food
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Protein-Rich Fish Food

Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Betta Pro Shrimp Patties

for Women 7
Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Betta Pro Shrimp Patties Cover
Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Pro Shrimp Patties, 50% Sword Prawns + Akiami Paste Shrimps, All Natural Protein, Rich in Calcium, for Betta's Healthy Development and Cleaner Water, 0.7 oz

Ultra Fresh Betta Fish Food, Betta Pro Shrimp Patties is a high-quality fish food suitable for betta fish. It is made with all-natural protein from fresh meat, vegetables, and seaweed with no harmful additives. The food has a sword prawn flavor that even the pickiest betta can't resist. It is rich in calcium and vitamin D to promote healthy growth and boost immunity. The granule size is easy to intake and digest, and the food contains 3 million CFUs/g of probiotics to help dissolve fish excrements and keep water clean.

What We Like
High palatability with sword prawn flavor
Rich in calcium and vitamin D for healthy growth and immunity
Easy to intake and digest
Contains 3 million CFUs/g of probiotics to keep water clean
Made with all-natural protein from fresh meat, vegetables, and seaweed with no harmful additives

San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Cyclops

San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Cyclops Cover
San Francisco Bay Brand Freeze-Dried Cyclops Fish Food for Reef Tanks & Invertebrates, Protein-Rich - 0.64oz (18g)

Introducing the SF Bay Freeze-Dried Cyclops, an all-natural freeze-dried food that is perfect for small fish, baby fish, and reef aquariums. These tiny freeze-dried morsels, ranging from 0.2 to 2 mm in size, are packed with protein and nutrients to support the health and growth of your aquatic pets. With the included portioning scoop, you can easily measure out the right amount of food for your fish. Whether you prefer broadcasting or target feeding, this versatile product has got you covered. Suitable for a wide range of aquatic creatures, including freshwater community fish, bettas, guppies, mixed reef aquariums, coral, and jellyfish, the SF Bay Freeze-Dried Cyclops is a convenient and nutritious option to keep your underwater friends happy and healthy.

What We Like
All-natural
Protein-rich
Includes portioning scoop
#TOP 3

Zewa Feeds Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Fish Food

ZPC014
Zewa Feeds Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae Fish Food Cover
Zewa Feeds Dried Black Soldier Fly Larvae - 100% Natural, Protein Rich Fish Food for Arowana, Flower Horn, Oscar, Parrots, Reptiles (75 g/2.65 Oz/500 ml)

The Zewa Protein-Rich Fish Food is a natural, high-protein option designed to support your ornamental fish’s health and growth. Its larvae are raised on a carefully controlled diet, minimizing contamination risks and ensuring safe feeding. The microwave drying process sterilizes the food while keeping nutrients intact, so your fish get the best nourishment. Packed with essential proteins and amino acids, this food helps promote faster growth and stronger overall health, making it a convenient choice to keep your fish vibrant and thriving.

What We Like
High protein content
Controlled diet larvae
Microwave sterilization
Supports fish growth
#TOP 4

Fluval Bug Bites Betta Fish Food

A6575
Multi
Fluval Bug Bites Betta Fish Food Cover
Fluval Bug Bites Betta Fish Food, Granules for Small to Medium Sized Fish, 1.05 Oz.

Fluval Bug Bites Betta Fish Food is a nutrient-rich food for small to medium sized fish. It contains up to 40% of Black Soldier Fly Larvae, multiple proteins like whole salmon, and essential vitamins, amino acids and minerals for a balanced daily diet. The slow sinking micro granule format allows all fish to feed at their preferred depth. The food is sustainably processed in small batches for quality control and maximum freshness.

What We Like
Nutrient-rich, high in multiple proteins
Slow sinking micro granule format allows all fish to feed at their preferred depth
Sustainably processed in small batches for quality control and maximum freshness
#TOP 5

TetraCichlid Clear Water Flakes 2.82 oz

AQ-16246-10
TetraCichlid Clear Water Flakes 2.82 oz Cover
TetraCichlid Cichlid Flakes 2.82 oz, Fish Food, Clear Water Advanced Form

Tetra Cichlid Flakes are specially made for your top- and mid-water cichlids, providing a protein-rich diet that supports their health and growth. With daily feeding in mind, these flakes offer a well-balanced mix of nutrients to keep your fish vibrant and full of energy. The ProCare formula is designed to boost your fish’s immune system, helping them stay healthy and live longer. Plus, the Clear-Water formula ensures the flakes won't cloud your aquarium, so you can enjoy a clean and clear tank while feeding your fish. This makes caring for your cichlids easier and more enjoyable.

What We Like
Protein-rich formula
Balanced daily nutrition
Immune system support
Clear water formula

Tetra ShrimpWafers Fish Food

AQ-77024
Blue
3 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Tetra ShrimpWafers Fish Food Cover
Tetra ShrimpWafers Complete Diet for Catfish and Loaches 3 Ounce

Tetra ShrimpWafers Fish Food is a complete diet formulated for Catfish and Loaches. The food is enriched with shrimp protein, making it ideal for fish that love shrimp protein. The sinking food is perfect for bottom feeders and is nutritionally balanced with a stabilized vitamin source and guaranteed nutrient percentages. The clear water formula keeps the tank clean, and the supplemental use allows you to feed other fish every few days, only what they can consume within a few hours.

What We Like
Enriched with shrimp protein
Sinking food ideal for bottom feeders
Nutritionally balanced with stabilized vitamin source and guaranteed nutrient percentages
#TOP 7

Fluval Bug Bites Tropical Fish Food

A6577
White
Fluval Bug Bites Tropical Fish Food Cover
Fluval Bug Bites Tropical Fish Food, Small Granules for Small to Medium Sized Fish, 1.6 oz., A6577

Fluval Bug Bites Tropical Fish Food is a nutrient-rich fish food containing up to 40% Black Soldier Fly Larvae, high in multiple proteins like whole salmon, and fortified with essential vitamins, amino acids, and minerals for a balanced daily diet. It comes in a slow sinking micro granule format that allows all fish to feed at their preferred depth. This sustainably processed fish food is made in Canada with no artificial fillers, colors, or preservatives.

What We Like
High insect protein content
Enhances fish color and activity
Slow sinking granules
Does not cloud water
Good value and freshness

Fluval Bug Bites Bottom Feeder Fish Food

A6586
Fluval Bug Bites Bottom Feeder Fish Food Cover
Fluval Bug Bites Bottom Feeder Fish Food, Granules for Small to Medium Sized Fish, 1.60 Oz., A6586

Fluval Bug Bites Bottom Feeder Fish Food is a highly nutritious food for small to medium sized fish. The food contains up to 40% nutrient-rich Black Soldier Fly Larvae, making it a great source of multiple proteins like whole salmon, omega 3, and 6 for healthy skin, scales, and fins. The granules are fortified with essential vitamins, amino acids, and minerals that provide a balanced daily diet. This sinking granule format is ideal for bottom feeders and is sustainably processed in small batches for quality control and maximum freshness. The food is made in Canada without any artificial fillers, colors or preservatives.

What We Like
Contains up to 40% nutrient-rich Black Soldier Fly Larvae
High in multiple proteins like whole salmon, omega 3, and 6 for healthy skin, scales, and fins
Fortified with essential vitamins, amino acids, and minerals for a balanced daily diet
Sinking granule format is ideal for bottom feeders
Made in Canada without any artificial fillers, colors, or preservatives

Blood Worms - Aquarium Fish Food

Blood Worms - Aquarium Fish Food Cover
Amzey Blood Worms 0.5 oz -100% Natural Freeze Dried Blood Worms - Aquarium High Protein Food for Betta Fish, Goldfish, Cichlid, Guppy, Discus, Turtle

The Blood Worms aquarium fish food is a healthy and tasty food option for all tropical fishes, turtles, and more. Made from superior quality freeze-dried blood worms, it helps in stimulating good growth and enhancing the color of aquatic pets. Enriched with multi-vitamins, it reduces stress and stress-related illness in aquatic pets. It is 100% natural with no additives, chemicals, or preservatives, making it a safe alternative to live food without the risk of bacteria or parasites. It is the best food option for Neon Fish, Guppies Fish, Angel Fish, Betta Fish, Discus, Catfish, Cichlids, Goldfish, Anthias, turtle and more.

What We Like
High in protein, minerals, and multi-vitamins
Stimulates growth and enhances color of aquatic pets
100% natural with no additives or preservatives
A safe alternative to live food
100% satisfaction guarantee with easy hassle-free return
#TOP 10

Capuca Ultrathin Tropical Fish Food Flakes

8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Capuca Ultrathin Tropical Fish Food Flakes Cover
Ultrathin Tropical Fish Food Flakes - 8oz High Protein with Krill & Spirulina, Easy Swallow Color Enhancing & Growth for Betta Guppies Tetra Angelfish

Capuca Tropical Fish Flakes offer a nutritious meal made from natural ingredients like fresh fish meat, krill, vegetables, and seaweed, ensuring your fish get a healthy, additive-free diet. The flakes are enriched with astaxanthin and spirulina, which help enhance your fish's vibrant colors and support their growth and immunity. Thanks to probiotics in the formula, this food helps break down waste, keeping your aquarium water cleaner for longer. The ultrathin flakes are easy for all kinds of tropical fish to eat and digest, making feeding time simple and stress-free for you and your aquatic pets.

What We Like
Natural high-quality ingredients
Color enhancement and growth
Probiotics for cleaner water
Easy-to-digest ultrathin flakes
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do you eat fish for protein?

Fish can be prepared in various ways to make a protein-rich meal. Grilling, steaming, or baking are nutritious cooking methods. For example, a 3.5 oz serving of salmon contains about 200 calories and 22 grams of protein, while a herring fillet has around 290 calories and 33 grams of protein. Herring is also lower in mercury compared to other omega-3 rich fish.

2. Can you get enough protein from fish?

Fish is a good source of protein, with a 3-ounce serving providing about 17 grams. Comparatively, a skinless chicken breast of the same size contains 20 grams, half a cup of cooked lentils has 9 grams, and an egg has 6 grams. Bacon has 4 grams of protein per ounce, and sausage has 8 grams per 2-ounce serving.

3. Is canned tuna high in protein?

Canned tuna is a good option for those looking to lose weight as it is low in calories and high in protein. High protein diets have been associated with benefits for weight loss, including increased feelings of fullness and reduced cravings.

4. How to make high protein fish food at home?

To make high protein fish food at home, chop and boil or steam vegetables, then let them cool. Blend the boiled vegetables, seafood, and garlic in a grinder to form a puree. Add vitamin drops and gelatine to the mixture. Transfer the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze.

5. How to get 120g of protein a day?

To consume 120g of protein per day, include lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish. Choose 100% grass-fed beef or steak that is at least 90% lean. Other sources include eggs, Greek yogurt, low-fat cheese, low-fat milk, beans, chickpeas, lentils, peanuts, and nuts like almonds, cashews, pistachios, Brazil nuts, and walnuts.

6. Is fish protein as good as meat protein?

Both fish and meat, such as beef, pork, and chicken, provide healthy nutrition. Poultry and fish are considered the best sources of protein and iron. It is beneficial to reduce red meat consumption and increase fish intake for improved health.

Editor's Notes

During our protein-rich fish food research, we found 24 protein-rich fish food products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 143,222 customer reviews through our big data system to write the protein-rich fish food list. We found that most customers choose protein-rich fish food with an average price of $7.20.

The protein-rich fish food are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of protein-rich fish food, including Ultra Fresh, San Francisco Bay Brand, Zewa Feeds, Fluval, Tetra. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 526 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.