Choosing the Best Goldfish Food: HULX, Origin Omnivore, and Repashy Soilent Green Compared

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only, based on available data and scientific literature, and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Opinions expressed are not definitive judgments on any brand. Consult a vet for your fish's needs.

Introduction

Choosing the right food for your Goldfish ensures their health, vibrancy, and long life. HULX fish food stands out with claims of rapid growth, "muscle gain," and parasite control, but its diverse formulas raise questions about ingredients and UK regulations. In contrast, Origin Omnivore and Repashy Soilent Green are trusted for balanced, Goldfish-friendly nutrition.

This post compares these brands, explores considerations for HULX’s varied range, and highlights why Origin and Repashy are top choices for Goldfish care. Regulations and availability may change; check with the UK Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) for updates.

Considerations for HULX Ingredients

HULX offers a range of formulas with protein levels from 42–80%, using varied sources like whey protein, egg albumin, fish meal, or plant-based ingredients, depending on the product. While these can support growth, high-protein formulas may not suit all Goldfish:

• Growth vs. health balance: Ingredients like whey in some HULX formulas can promote growth but may stress liver and kidneys in fish not adapted to them[^1].

  
  

• Goldfish digestion: As omnivores with long digestive tracts, Goldfish thrive on moderate protein, unlike carnivorous species suited for higher levels.

  
  

• Water quality: Excess protein is often excreted, increasing ammonia and affecting tank clarity[^2].

  
  

Key note: HULX’s lower-protein options (e.g. Vegan at 42%) may align better with Goldfish needs, but high-protein formulas (60–80%) could impact health and water quality over time. Recent studies suggest excessive protein increases metabolic stress in fish[^8].

HULX Dewormer and UK Regulations

Only HULX Deworm Fish Food contains Metronidazole, a Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinarian (POM-V) in the UK:

• Metronidazole requires a veterinary prescription and proper authorization for sale or use in feed, per the Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013 (updated 2024)[^3][^9].

• Unauthorized sale or use (e.g., without prescription or proper labelling) does not comply with UK law. Antibiotics like Metronidazole need a vet’s clinical assessment[^10].

  
  

Note: This post focuses on product composition and regulations, avoiding retailer specifics for neutrality.

Risks of Long-Term Metronidazole Use

Metronidazole treats certain parasites and bacterial infections, but regular or prolonged use in feed may pose challenges:

• Drug resistance: Ongoing use could reduce effectiveness by fostering resistant parasites or bacteria[^4].

• Organ health: Extended exposure may stress liver and kidneys in goldfish[^5].

• Gut balance: Continuous use might disrupt beneficial gut bacteria, affecting digestion and immunity[^6].

• Legal compliance: As a Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinarian (POM-V), Metronidazole is for short-term, vet-supervised use. Regular use without guidance is not legal in the UK[^3][^11].

Key takeaway: Medicated feeds like HULX Dewormer are for short-term, vet-approved use, not daily feeding.

HULX Product Range (Neutral Overview)

HULX’s diverse lineup caters to various needs, with protein levels varying by formula:

• HULX Muscle & Mass Gain Fish Food: ~60% protein for growth and muscle development.

• HULX Emperor Fish Food: ~60% protein, suited for adult Goldfish.

• HULX Emperor Fish Food (Color Enhance): ~60% protein, enhances coloration.

• HULX Super Red Fish Food: ~60% protein, focuses on vibrant colors.

• HULX Awake Fish Food: ~80% protein, powdered feed for fry/juveniles.

• HULX Vegan Fish Food: ~42% protein, plant-based for omnivorous/herbivorous goldfish.

• HULX Deworm Fish Food: ~45% protein, contains Metronidazole (prescription required).

Some HULX products, like the Vegan formula at 42% protein, may suit Goldfish better due to lower protein, but consult a vet to choose the right formula for your tank.

Why Choose Origin Omnivore and Repashy Soilent Green?

Origin Omnivore (Moist Pellet Food)

• Balanced nutrition: ~35–40% protein, tailored for goldfish growth and health[^12].

• Natural ingredients: Uses proteins and plant matter, avoiding concentrated whey for gentler digestion.

• Moist pellets: Soft texture mimics natural foods, reducing digestive stress and boosting nutrient uptake.

• User-friendly: Easy to feed and store, loved by hobbyists for vibrant Goldfish and clear tanks.

  
  

Why it’s great: Origin Omnivore supports long-term health, vibrant colors, and tank cleanliness. Find it at www.pingpongpearlscales.com for reliable daily feeding.

Repashy Soilent Green (Moist Gel Food)

Repashy is a global favorite for quality and transparency. Soilent Green is ideal for Goldfish:

Ingredients: Algae Meal, Whole Krill Meal, Squid Meal, Rice Protein Concentrate, Pea Protein Isolate, Dried Brewer’s Yeast, Spirulina, Chlorella, Stabilized Rice Bran, Dried Kelp, Oat Bran, Lecithin, RoseHips, Hibiscus Flower, Paprika, Marigold Flower Extract, Turmeric, Garlic, Ginger, Cinnamon, Dandelion Leaf, Calendula Flower, Mustard Powder, Fenugreek Seed, Fennel Seed, Basil, Oregano, Astaxanthin, Papain, Bromelain, Vitamin C (L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate), Vitamin A Acetate, Vitamin D, Vitamin E (d-Alpha Tocopherol), Niacin, Riboflavin, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine, Pyridoxine, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12, Choline Chloride, Beta Carotene, Inositol, Manganese Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Cobalt Proteinate, Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Carbonate, Potassium Iodide, Sodium Selenite.

Benefits:

• ~35% protein, perfect for Goldfish digestion[^12].

• Enhances natural colors with spirulina and astaxanthin.

• Gel format stays stable in water, reducing waste and supporting slow grazers like goldfish and snails[^14].

• Simple prep: Mix with water, set, and store for weeks.

  
  

Why it’s great: Repashy Soilent Green promotes digestion, immunity, and vibrant colors. Available at www.pingpongpearlscales.com.

Moist Pellets and Gels vs. Dry Pellets

Origin (moist pellets) and Repashy (gel) outperform dry pellets in:

• Nutrient absorption: Softer textures improve uptake.

• Digestive ease: Mimics natural foods, reducing bloating.

• Tank cleanliness: Less waste compared to dry pellets.

• Suitability: Ideal for sensitive or young Goldfish.

Some HULX dry pellets, particularly high-protein ones, may be harder to digest and increase tank maintenance, though lower-protein options may perform better.

Goldfish Protein Needs

Goldfish thrive on 35–45% dietary protein, especially juveniles[^7][^12]:

• Excess protein (above 50%) is excreted, raising ammonia and clouding water[^13].

• High-protein diets (60–80%) may stress kidneys and are often unnecessary.

• Balanced feeds like Origin and Repashy match goldfish needs without risks.

  
  

Tip: Feed small amounts twice daily and test water weekly for ammonia and nitrate to maintain a healthy tank!

Quick Comparison Table

Feature/Product	HULX Fish Food	Origin Omnivore	Repashy Soilent Green
Format	❌ Dry pellet/powder	✅ Moist pellet	✅ Moist gel
Protein Source	Varied (includes whey, egg albumin in some formulas)	✅ Natural proteins & plant matter	✅ Algae, krill, squid, plant proteins
Protein Content	❌ 42–80%	✅ ~35–40%	✅ ~35%
Digestibility	❌ May stress digestion (high-protein formulas)	✅ Easier than dry pellets	✅ Excellent; gentle on gut
Digestive Stress	❌ Possible bloating/organ stress (high-protein)	⚠ Moderate	✅ Low
Natural Ingredients	❌ Limited in some formulas	⚠ Moderate	✅ Diverse, nutrient-rich
Contains Drugs	❌ Only Dewormer has Metronidazole	✅ No	✅ No
Legal in UK	❌ Dewormer needs prescription	✅ Legal	✅ Legal
Best For	❌ Short-term goals (with vet advice)	✅ Balanced daily feeding	✅ Sensitive fish, color, long-term health

FAQ

Q: Can I buy HULX Dewormer without a prescription? A: No, it contains Metronidazole, a POM-V requiring veterinary approval in the UK.

Q: Are high-protein diets safe for Goldfish? A: Up to 45% protein supports growth, especially in juveniles, but higher levels may stress organs and pollute water. Consult a vet for your setup.

Q: What should I do if I already have HULX Dewormer? A: Stop using it as a regular feed. Contact a vet to confirm if it’s suitable for your fish’s needs and to ensure compliance with UK regulations. Store it safely and check the label for expiry or usage instructions.

Q: Have UK regulations on veterinary medicines changed recently? A: Yes, amendments in 2024 tightened controls on antimicrobials like Metronidazole, emphasizing veterinary prescriptions and clinical assessments to reduce resistance[^9][^10].

Q: Where can I buy Origin Omnivore or Repashy Soilent Green? A: These trusted foods are available at www.pingpongpearlscales.com with fast delivery for Goldfish enthusiasts!

Reader Poll

Which goldfish food do you trust most?

• Origin Omnivore

• Repashy Soilent Green

• HULX

• Other (share in the comments!)

Vote in the comments and let us know why!

Conclusion

HULX’s range offers options for growth and parasite control, but its varied protein levels, medicated formula, and UK regulations require careful consideration. Only HULX Deworm Fish Food contains Metronidazole, needing a veterinary prescription. While some HULX products (e.g., Vegan at 42% protein) may suit Goldfish, high-protein formulas (60–80%) could stress fish or water quality over time.

For vibrant, healthy Goldfish, Origin Omnivore and Repashy Soilent Green provide balanced, digestible, and vet-friendly diets. Their natural ingredients, gentle formats, and proven results make them ideal for daily feeding. Stock up at www.pingpongpearlscales.com to give your Goldfish the best care possible.

Share your experiences in the comments! What Goldfish food do you recommend?

Thank you for taking the time to delve into this post. We'd be thrilled to hear about your experiences with Goldfish breeding. What challenges have you encountered, and what successes have brought joy to your aquatic endeavours? Your insights enrich our community, so please feel free to share your thoughts.

References

[^1]: Bureau, D. P., Kaushik, S. J., & Cho, C. Y. (2000). Protein and amino acid nutrition of fish: Current knowledge and future needs. Aquaculture, 190(1-2), 3–18.[^2]: Cho, C. Y., & Kaushik, S. J. (1990). Nutritional energetics in fish: Protein utilization and nitrogen excretion. Aquaculture, 90, 45–63.[^3]: UK Government. (2013). Veterinary Medicines Regulations 2013. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/2033/contents/made[^4]: Cabello, F. C. (2006). Heavy use of prophylactic antibiotics in aquaculture: a growing problem for human and animal health and for the environment. Environmental Microbiology, 8(7), 1137–1144.[^5]: Liu, J., et al. (2015). Toxicity of Metronidazole in fish: A review of effects on liver and kidney. Aquaculture Research, 46(5), 1023–1032.[^6]: Navarrete, P., et al. (2010). Molecular analysis of intestinal microbiota in fish under antibiotic treatment. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 109(4), 1172–1182.[^7]: Bandyopadhyay, P., et al. (2005). Growth and dietary utilisation in goldfish (Carassius auratus Linn.) fed diets formulated with various local agro-produces. Bioresource Technology, 96(6), 731-740.[^8]: Chen, Y., et al. (2024). Effects of high-protein feeds on growth, free amino acid metabolism, and gut microbiota in juvenile grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). Aquaculture, 590, 741015.[^9]: UK Government. (2024). The Veterinary Medicines (Amendment etc.) Regulations 2024. https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukdsi/2024/9780348258523[^10]: Ornamental Fish International. (2024). UK Antibiotic Regulations: An Explainer. https://ornamentalfish.org/wp-content/uploads/UK-Antibiotic-Regulations-an-explainer-Nov-2024.pdf[^11]: VMD. (2024). New Veterinary Medicines Regulations now in force. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-veterinary-medicines-regulations-now-in-force[^12]: Matthew, A. A., et al. (2022). Effects of dietary protein and lipid levels on growth, feed utilization and body composition in juvenile goldfish Carassius auratus. ResearchGate.[^13]: Li, X., et al. (2023). Effects of Different Dietary Protein Levels on Growth Performance, Physiological Response, and Intestinal Microbiota of Spotted Seabass (Lateolabrax maculatus). Animals, 13(7), 1237.[^14]: Aquarium Co-Op. (2025). Repashy Soilent Green: Aquarium Fish Food for Algae Eaters. https://www.aquariumcoop.com/products/repashy-soilent-green