F&A Alternative Proteins Edition

ARTICLE 22 F&A Alternative Proteins Edition April 2023 The agri-food sector is constantly evolving. Alternative foods and farming systems are gradually taking the lead. In particular, insect-based products have come forward as one of these new food sources, specifically in the petfood and animal feed sectors. According to the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF)1, the 1 billion euros invested since its establishment is expected to triple by 20252. With a significant growth ascertained in the last few years, the industry has been shaped with rigor and structure by the manufacturers, hand in hand with researchers and the competent public authorities, to guarantee high-quality products and compliance with the regulations in play. Ÿnsect, as the world leader in the mealworm farming and manufacturing sectors, not only abides by these requirements, but ensures they are met with the highest standards available on the market. With three farms located in Europe (in France and in the Netherlands) equipped with high-end technology, the company is shaping the future of insect farming and processing. THE PETFOOD INSECT INDUSTRY BOUND BY RULES AND REGULATIONS In Europe, the petfood industry – and more generally the food and feed industry – is highly regulated. Petfood operators have to comply with the European “Food and feed law” which guarantees the safety of food and feed chains and is amongst the most stringent in the world. The mealworm industry makes no exception to the rule. Coercive requirements regarding risk analysis, traceability, good hygiene practices, etc. notably set criteria that guarantee safety of the mealworm-based petfood products placed on the market. Compliance with these requirements is enforced by competent national authorities. As such, risks linked to the potential presence of contaminants such as pathogens (microbiological), heavy metals, pesticides and toxins are closely monitored and controlled. Both as an insect farmer and manufacturer of mealworm-based products, Ÿnsect has implemented, applied, and integrated - according to the legislation With the growing demand for insect-based ingredients, particularly in the petfood and animal feed sector, it is ever more important to showcase product reliability and quality. Subjected to the requirements of the food and feed industry, Ÿnsect goes above and beyond to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and petfood market standards but also to push the boundaries of innovation regarding mealworm housing and breeding. ENSURING SAFETY OF MEALWORM PRODUCTS Benjamin Armenjon, PhD General Manager Ÿnsect

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