April 2025 - Issue 5 Thomas Stringer, Flybox BSFL: Better health & welfare for poultry Dr. Adi Abada, FreezeM Black soldier fly rearing made more efficient Bart Roszkowski, Proteine Resources Sustainable, scalable, and surprisingly delicious: The future of pet food www.feedandadditive.com by Feed Additive Magazine Alternative Proteins INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE FOR ALTERNATIVE PROTEINS TO ANIMAL FEED Alternative Protein Sources and Their Use in Animal Feed Innovative Technologies for Alternative Protein Production
© Three Plus Media | All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. *DISCLAIMER: All views and ideas expressed in articles published in the magazine reflect the point of views of the author(s), not that of the Editor-in-Chief, Editors, Editorial Board or Publisher of Alternative Proteins Magazine. The Editor-in-Chief, Editors, Editorial Board and Publisher assume no responsibility or liability in such cases. The publisher does not give any warranty and representation to the accuracy or completeness of the contents and data published in the magazine. All responsibility of the contents, articles and information published in the magazine belongs to the authors. The publisher and the authors cannot be held responsible for any damages resulting from the use of the whole or part of the content of the magazine. feedandadditive Alternative Proteins + As the world seeks more sustainable food systems, the proteins used in animal diets are becoming as important as those used in human diets. Traditional protein sources such as soybean and fish meal are damaging the environment and are becoming increasingly unsustainable. Fortunately, there are a number of alternative protein sources that offer promising solutions in this environment. Insects such as black soldier fly larvae and mealworms are gaining traction as sources of high-quality, digestible protein. They can be farmed using food waste and require far fewer resources than traditional protein crops or livestock. The fact that they are a part of the natural diet of many animals makes them a biologically appropriate feed ingredient. Therefore, insect-based ingredients are already being tested as feed for poultry, fish and pets. Single-celled proteins (SCP) derived from bacteria, yeasts, algae or fungi also show potential. These microorganisms can be grown with minimal soil and water and some, such as algae, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them particularly appealing for aquaculture and pet food. Another alternative protein option is lab-grown, cellbased meat. This technology, which is still expensive and in the early stages of development, seems to be aimed more at human consumption. But it also has potential for pet food and the nutrition of some aquatic species. If scaled up effectively, cultured meat could relieve the pressure on wild fish stocks and industrial meat systems. However, despite their remarkable attributes, there are a number of obstacles to the widespread adoption and commercialisation of all these alternative proteins. Cost and scalability are key challenges, like regulatory approvals in different regions. Infrastructure for production and distribution is still under development and consumer perceptions on insects may require training and transparency. Nevertheless, they promise significant benefits, such as reducing environmental impact, diversifying protein sources and increasing food system resilience. There is no single solution to completely replace conventional proteins for animal feed, but combining multiple alternatives could shift the feed industry towards a more sustainable model. Ultimately, how we feed our animals is about how we feed ourselves. Enjoy your reading... Hope to meet you in the next issue... EDITOR Future-Proofing Feed: Embracing the Protein Revolution Derya YILDIZ Publisher Muhammed Akatay [email protected] Responsible Manager Özlem Akatay [email protected] Editor-in-Chief Derya Yıldız [email protected] Editors Burak Varol Zeynep Demirkaya [email protected] Communication & Marketing Lisa Atakul [email protected] Design Alper Kandemir [email protected] Web Design Caner Cem Pulat [email protected] Circulation and Data Responsible Amine Şengün [email protected] Ataturk St. Metropol Istanbul Ste. Block C1, No:376 Atasehir, Istanbul/TURKEY Phone: +90 850 220 5064 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: www.feedandadditive.com Publication Type: Periodic (Twice a year)
Sustainability goals and raw material scarcity mean by-products from the food and beverage industry is now seen as a viable, nutritious source of energy for animals. Trouw Nutrition offers solutions to help the industry use resources more efficiently and move towards a circular, more sustainable economy. THE BENEFITS FOOD2FEED QUALITY Reduce landfill Upcycle by-products Maintain nutritional value Sustainable alternatives that make a little go a long way Learn more, visit www.selko.com
CON T E N T S 16 ISSUE FOCUS ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN SOURCES AND THEIR USE IN ANIMAL FEED 18 THE INSECT OIL ADVANTAGE: HEALTHY ANIMALS, PLUS A GREENER FUTURE Piotr Postepski, Protix 23 INSECTS COULD TRANSFORM PLASTIC WASTE INTO PROTEIN Rodrigo Llauradó Casares 28 BSFL: BETTER HEALTH & WELFARE FOR POULTRY Thomas Stringer, Flybox® 33 BSF MEAL IN AQUAFEED: WHY NOW IS THE TIME TO MOVE FORWARD Aubin Bernard, Flylab 36 YEAST AS A SUSTAINABLE SINGLE-CELL PROTEIN FOR AQUAFEED Geoff Bell & An Grobler, MicroBioGen 41 THE INSECT OIL ADVANTAGE: HEALTHY ANIMALS, PLUS A GREENER FUTURE Christophe Derrien, IPIFF
CON T E N T S New trials present success of Entocycle’s BSF optical dosing solution 66 Brenntag makes distribution agreement for insect-based products 8 Asahi Group Foods strengthens yeast business with new agreement 68 Biotechnology start-up secures €30 million in funding 70 Unibio secures Saudi approval for its microbial SCP 15 Nutreco holds inauguration ceremony for world’s first cell feed production facility 12 Agroloop and FreezeM partner for world's first decoupled BSF protein facility 10 NEWS INNOVATION 52 NASEKOMO ACHIEVES BREAKTHROUGH IN INSECT BIOCONVERSION WITH RECORD FCR Marc Bolard, Nasekomo 56 BSF REARING MADE MORE EFFICIENT Dr. Adi Abada, FreezeM INTERVIEWS TRADITIONAL FOOD PRODUCTION AND INSECT FARMING FOR PROTEIN GO HAND IN HAND Dr. Nick Rousseau, UKEIA 44 SUSTAINABLE, SCALABLE, AND SURPRISINGLY DELICIOUS: THE FUTURE OF PET FOOD Bart Roszkowski, Proteine Resources 49 TECHNOLOGY ARTICLE 62 CAN FUTURE PROTEIN PRODUCTION MEET GLOBAL DEMAND? Mylène Potier & Laurène Bajard, Gira 59 HOW DATA-DRIVEN AUTOMATION IS POWERING FEED & FERTILISER PRODUCTION Nathaniel Phua, Ento Industries
NEWS 6 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 Germany gives green light to Reploid Austria-based BSF larvae producer Reploid reported the final decision regarding the approval of the ReFarmUnit in Burghausen, Bavaria, Germany. The company states that this decision is the result of intensive coordination and cooperation between the regional authorities in the district of Altötting and Reploid. With receiving the approval, the construction of the first ReFarmUnit in the Free State will begin immediately at the location of farmer S. Steinberger. From the late summer of 2025 onwards, 2,000 tons of fresh larvae will be produced there annually making use of the innovative Reploid system, according to the statement. In an economic partnership with the operators of the rearing units, the company actively participates in their operation, organizes the procurement of approved residual materials from the region as the basis for the rearing substrate, and guarantees to purchase the harvest from the producer. The approach offers farmers and companies in the food industry the opportunity to break new, future-oriented ground and thus generate secure economic returns, Reploid notes. “For financial institutions and banks, the joint approach ensures the necessary trust to support pioneers in their endeavors today.” Read more>> Biotech company introduces world's first scalable beef substitute for pets Proteine Resources, the creator of a groundbreaking protein technology, announced it developed the world's first scalable beef analog with a 1:1 nutritional profile to real beef, cutting production costs by up to 50% - is ready to launch sales. Unlike other alt-protein approaches—cultivated meat, plant-based substitutes, and precision fermentation, which have attracted over USD 14 billion in investments yet remain costly or lower in quality, Proteine’s technology is quickly approaching market readiness. Industrial meat production drives global warming, with beef alone emitting up to 375 kg of CO₂ equivalent per 1 kg of protein — the highest rates in the livestock sector. This impact grows in developed countries, where both humans and pets consume more beef, fueled by the trend of feeding pets human-grade meat. Intensive farming depletes resources, relies heavily on antibiotics, pesticides, and growth hormones, and subjects animals to harsh conditions. Additionally, many dogs and cats could be allergic to beef, highlighting the need for safer, more sustainable alternatives to address environmental, ethical, and health concerns. For many years, the world has been searching for a nutritious, scalable, and eco-friendly protein alternative – without success. Cultivated meat, plantbased substitutes, and precision fermentation are still 2-3 times more expensive than their traditional counterparts, and it is predicted that by 2035, these alternatives will not reach price parity with traditional ingredients. In many parts of the world, they also face regulatory barriers. Read more>>
NEWS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 7 Packaged Feeds and FreezeM partner for zero-waste BSF farming Packaged Feeds, one of the leaders in innovative food waste-to-resource solutions, partnered with FreezeM to integrate the company’s Breeding-asa-Service technology into its Black Soldier Fly (BSF) operations. By selecting FreezeM’s PauseM® product, Packaged Feeds underscores the unmatched operational efficiency and protein quality that PauseM® delivers, validated through extensive field pilot testing, according to the announcement. FreezeM stated that PauseM®, its flagship product, contains suspended BSF neonates with a 14day shelf life, eliminating the need for in-house BSF breeding. This synergy with Packaged Feeds’ advanced rearing technology establishes a scalable, high performance insect farming process, driving the company’s transition from proof-of-concept to large-scale operations. FreezeM will initially supply PauseM® from its state-of-the-art facility in Germany, ensuring seamless integration and robust support as Packaged Feeds scales its efforts. Building on its expertise in organic surplus co-product solutions, Packaged Feeds has successfully developed a pioneering BSF rearing and processing technology based on proprietary modular rearing units that can be rapidly deployed near organic co-product sources. These modular insect bioconversion farms provide efficient, scalable and adaptable solutions tailored to diverse operational setups. In 2025, Packaged Feeds explained it is planning to deploy its first production site, with the capacity of treating 15,000+ tons/organic surplus co-products per year. By the end of 2026 the company expects to operate 6 such sites in the UK, treating over 100,000 tons of surplus co-products/year. Read more>> Bühler makes new collaboration for cultivated meat Food-tech innovator Ever After Foods (EAF) and Swiss technology group Bühler announced an expansive cultivated meat collaboration to help food producers around the globe produce cultivated meat efficiently at mass scale. Bühler and Ever After Foods will work together to bring a commercial-scale cultivated meat production system, which is expected to allow commercial production at ten-fold lower scale than existing technologies, to market. Bühler aims to foster the development of equipment to enable market-ready, sustainable, healthy, and affordable cellular products that can address increasingly complex food system challenges, reduce environmental impact and improve food security. Ever After Foods provides the technology to deliver commercial-scale production systems specifically designed to meet the needs of the cultivated meat sector. “The global food chain faces significant challenges if we are to successfully and sustainably feed our growing population. How we produce and consume protein will continue to change, and requires a transition of our protein system to deliver this. Powering cultivated meat production at scale with a patented production system, Ever After Foods will help the food industry keep pace with the protein demands of a growing global population,” noted Ian Roberts, CTO at Bühler. Read more>>
NEWS 8 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 Brenntag makes distribution agreement for insect-based products Brenntag Specialties, a global market player in chemicals and ingredients distribution, announced a new exclusive distribution agreement with HiProMine S.A., a company in the production of innovative insect-based products. This collaboration introduces HiProMine's solutions derived from the Black Soldier Fly larvae (Hermetia illucens larvae) to the animal nutrition industry in Europe. According to the announcement, the products of HiProMine are characterized by their high protein content, excellent amino acid profile and presence of antimicrobial peptides that promote animal health. These products serve as protein and fat feed components with exceptional functional properties and promote animal health and welfare. HiProMine is GMP+ certified, demonstrating its commitment to the highest quality standards throughout the production chain. Wouter Vullings, Director Animal Nutrition EMEA, remarked: “The HiProMine products complement Brenntag's existing animal nutrition portfolio of sustainable performance enhancers. This agreement supports our long-term strategic goal to expand our presence as a leading animal nutrition solutions and ingredient supplier in the animal nutrition and pet food industries in the EMEA region. The partnership with HiProMine opens new opportunities for us and allows us to offer our customers unique products that have the potential to change the market. We are very pleased to be able to offer such solutions to our current and potential customers.” Read more>> Agroloop opens insect protein processing plant Insect producer Agroloop Hungary Ltd. officially opened its 13,000 square metre feed protein production facility on the outskirts of Budapest. With an investment of €30 million, this is the first industrial-scale insect protein processing plant in Hungary dedicated to feed production. The company aims to establish industrial-scale insect farming in the Central and Eastern European region and position itself among global industry leaders in the long term. The feed protein company has reached a new milestone: four years after its foundation, on 13 December 2024, it officially opened its 13,000 square metre automated plant. Here, 120 tonnes of feed material per day from by-products of various domestic food producers will be delivered to the larvae, which will then grow to 1,8 billion in around 36,000 crates during the "peak period". The processing plant will produce 250 tonnes of high-quality protein meal, 50 tonnes of feed fat and 900 tonnes of organic fertiliser per month from around 150 million larvae per day. Operations are carried out 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, almost every day of the year. The factory, which currently employs 35 people, has also been fitted with a state-ofthe-art air purification system to ensure that no unpleasant odours are emitted outside the facility. Read more>>
NEWS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 9 Marsapet launches first dog food with FeedKind Pet protein Biotechnology company Calysta and German pet food manufacturer Marsapet launched the first complete dog food featuring FeedKind Pet protein, a cultured protein fermented without using any arable land or animal ingredients. Produced under the Marsavet line and targeted at animal health, MicroBell dry kibble is a vegan, grain free, and gluten free pet food with all the necessary amino acids to keep dogs healthy, according to the statement. MicroBell is primarily comprised of sweet potatoes, peas, FeedKind protein, and potatoes, and is particularly well suited for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs. The high nutrient density, balanced amino acid profile, and attractive palatability of FeedKind Pet make it an option for pet parents who want the nutrition usually available in animal protein, without the animal. Herman Sloot, Calysta’s VP of Global Sales said: “Marsapet are true innovators in the industry and with MicroBell, they’re introducing both the first pet food to use FeedKind Pet protein, and a new choice for pet parents who want to give their dogs high-quality protein that does not impact on the planet’s biodiversity.” Read more>> Meatly officially launches cultivated pet treats in UK Meatly announced that on the 7th of February, 2025, it became the first company in the world to supply cultivated meat for pet food on sale. Produced in collaboration with plant-based dog food brand THE PACK, a limited-release of “Chick Bites” is on sale at Pets at Home Brentford, London, UK, from Friday 7th February. Chick Bites combine plant-based ingredients with Meatly Chicken to provide a nutritious, healthy and sustainable alternative to traditional dog treats. Pets can enjoy the same great-tasting meat they crave, but in a way which is kinder for animals and better for the planet, Meatly points out. Meatly plans to raise additional funds to expand production and make Meatly Chicken more broadly available in the next 3-5 years, with further collaborations planned with THE PACK and Pets at Home. Pets at Home – one of the largest investors in Meatly – is the first retailer to sell pet food made from cultivated meat globally, aligning with its ambition to make pet food more sustainable by making and selling products using less carbon, land, and water. To produce Meatly Chicken a single sample of cells was taken from one chicken egg, from which enough cultivated meat can be produced to feed pets forever, according to the company’s statement. Meatly Chicken is just as tasty and nutritious as traditional chicken breast, containing all the essential amino acids, critical fatty acids, minerals and vitamins needed for pet health. Read more>>
NEWS 10 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 World's largest insect farm to be built in Spain Tebrio, the biotech company pioneer in the production and transformation of the insect Tenebrio molitor, celebrated in Salamanca, Spain, the symbolic act of laying the first stone of what will be the largest insect farm in the world. A historic event in which the heads of the company, with its founders Adriana Casillas (CEO) and Sabas de Diego (CTO) at the head, were surrounded by institutional representatives and industry leaders in what is a decisive step towards the future of the biotechnology industry. This new plant, which will occupy a total surface area of 90,000 square meters when its six phases are completed, five of them for breeding and one for processing, will enable Tebrio to reach an annual production capacity of more than 100,000 tons of products per year. This production includes high quality protein and lipids for the production of animal feed products, 100% organic biofertilizers and chitosan, with applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and bioplastics sectors. The new factory, which will generate 150 direct jobs and 1,350 indirect jobs, will complete its first phase in the last quarter of 2025, and the construction of the entire project is expected to be completed in 2028. The cost of its construction, when completed, will be 110 million euros. Its location is privileged, as it is in the Puerto Seco of Salamanca, a strategic intermodal platform in terms of communications and one of the main poles of attraction for logistics and transport activity in the west of Spain. Read more>> Agroloop and FreezeM partner for world's first decoupled BSF protein facility FreezeM Ltd, one of the leading innovators in Black Soldier Fly (BSF) breeding technology, announced its collaboration with Agroloop Hungary Ltd., a prominent EU insect farming company, marking a significant industry paradigm shift. The collaboration introduces the industry’s first fully decoupled insect farming factory, completely outsourcing the breeding process, according to the announcement. Traditionally, BSF protein production has been vertically integrated, with breeding and production performed in-house. However, this approach encounters significant challenges, including production instability, inefficiency, and high costs, which have hindered scalability and business growth. The FreezeM-Agroloop collaboration introduces a cost-effective alternative offering for the insect farming industry. This decoupled model offers a scalable, efficient, and streamlined solution that sets a new standard for both growth and sustainability. FreezeM will supply Agroloop with PauseM® on a weekly basis from its breeding hub in Germany, which operates in collaboration with Hermetia GmbH, a pioneer in the BSF industry with decades of proven experience in large-scale insect breeding. Each PauseM® unit contains pre-counted, life-cycle suspended BSF neonates, that can be stocked and used according to Agroloop’s production plan of BSF based products, the companies state. Read more>>
NEWS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 11 The full-service partner for the agricultural sector, Arvesta announced the official opening of “Nuverta”, its innovative protein facility in Mettet, Belgium. This facility, the only one of its kind in Belgium and the Benelux, marks an important milestone in Arvesta's mission: “From Field to Future”. The company explained the special feature of this protein plant as its ability to produce high-quality vegetable protein concentrates from local raw materials such as yellow peas. This creates new income models for farmers and ensures the production of healthy, local, plantbased products. The new protein plant in Mettet produces high-quality vegetable protein concentrates from local raw materials, in this case yellow peas. The project contributes to the sustainable production of animal and human food, enhances the value of local raw materials and offers new business models to local farmers, Arvesta stated. “This installation is an investment in technology and in the future of agriculture. We are convinced that this step brings us closer to our vision of an economically and environmentally sustainable agricultural sector,” said Niek Depoorter, CEO of Arvesta. “We connect farmers with the rest of the food chain. Thanks to our expertise, we can support various partners with innovative solutions that are good for both people and the planet.” Read more>> Arvesta launches new protein plant in Belgium The Cultured Hub opens its doors The Cultured Hub, the joint venture of the Swiss companies Givaudan, Migros, and Bühler, officially opened its doors, marking a milestone for the global cellular agriculture and food industry communities. The pioneering scale-up and growth service aims to revolutionize the cultivated food and beverage sector by accelerating the development and market penetration of cellular agriculture products. These innovations can address increasingly complex food system challenges, reducing environmental impact and improving food security, the companies explained. Equipped with advanced product development labs, cell culture, and fermentation capabilities and equipment, and with its ecosystem of partners, the hub is designed to empower start-ups and organizations to scale up and accelerate the development of market-ready, sustainable, healthy, and affordable products. The hub offers a technology platform that extends beyond food and can support the development of diverse products, such as meat, fish, dairy, pet food, and plant-based cells like cocoa – as well as materials like cosmetics and selective pharma applications. Read more>>
NEWS 12 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 Nutreco holds inauguration ceremony for world’s first cell feed production facility Over 50 delegates from the cell-cultured protein industry came together for the official opening of the world’s first dedicated food-grade powder production facility for cell feed at Nutreco in Boxmeer, The Netherlands. Opening the event David Blakemore, CEO of Nutreco, welcomed the community and talked to the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration in the industry to tackle to challenge of feeding an ever-growing global population sustainably, and the role Nutreco is taking to support the industry’s growth. “We recognise the possibilities in cultivated protein and think this industry holds tremendous potential. One of the biggest challenges it faces though is how to feed the protein cells cost-efficiently, sustainably and at very large scale. At Nutreco, we believe we can create cell culture media with a lower cost and enable the industry to scale up and bring to the masses something that is currently only available to a limited few,” said Blakemore. Read more>> NoMy unveils its Japanese subsidiary Oslo-based fermentation technology company Norwegian Mycelium (NoMy) announced its entry into the Japanese market, with the establishment of a subsidiary company in the country, NoMy Japan KK. Headquartered in Sapporo, Hokkaido, NoMy Japan (founded in January 2024) has forged key strategic partnerships with industrial actors to expand the reach of its core fermentation technologies utilizing food industry side streams. These include a Strategic Alliance with one of Japan’s largest sugar (beet sugar) manufacturers, Nippon Beet Sugar Manufacturing Co. Ltd and a feasibility study with Hokuren, a farmer cooperative of Hokkaido, with an array of agricultural production operations in its network. More partnerships are still confidential and will be announced soon, according to NoMy’s statement. Additionally, the company is announcing the launch of its innovative upcycling service, MycoPrime™. The concept combines the power of data science, fermentation technology and artificial intelligence to drive its upcycling services with food industry partners. With MycoPrime™, NoMy Japan aims to help its partners find the optimal utilization of sidestreams, minimizing waste and CO2 emissions and maximizing water recycling, and design co-located production facilities for the manufacture of high value, sustainable fungi-based products. The establishment of MycoPrime™ and the firm's entry into the Japanese market reportedly distinguishes NoMy from other mycoprotein companies, by providing scalable and licensable end-to-end upcycling services that leverage its core competence and IP for developing solutions globally. Read more>>
NEWS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 13 Proteina’s sustainable insect protein secures EU support The animal feed industry has long grappled with sustainability challenges; from its heavy reliance on environmental and economic resources to its environmental footprint, it has raised increasing concerns about food security and the future of livestock feed. Although alternative solutions are still in their nascent stages, entrepreneurs are coming up with innovative solutions to change the game and set new standards in the industry. One of them is Ashraf El Sharkaway, owner of Proteina Feeds, a company from Egypt offering sustainable solutions for farmers and animal food systems, and ensuring food security for future generations. With the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU), Proteina announced it is expanding its insect-based protein and gearing up to revolutionise the pet food industry. Reflecting on Proteina’s beginnings, El Sharkaway is convinced that an ’entrepreneurial bug’ has run through his family for generations and has finally caught up with him. His father had laid the groundwork for Proteina, establishing the business initially as a soya production plant, which supplied protein to animal feed companies. Recognising the significant challenges facing the industry – especially the growing scarcity of soybean yields and the environmental impact of traditional feed sources – El Sharkaway was inspired to bring his knack for business development to the fore and honour his father’s legacy. The bug, running in his family, sparked his idea of using actual bugs as insect protein. Read more>> UK sees growing interest in insect protein sector The UK Edible Insect Association (UKEIA) has seen its membership increase by 30% ahead of its planned conference: Nest 10, which is open to anyone with an interest in the farmed insect protein sector. The conference, which will take place at the University of Nottingham Sutton Bonington campus in the UK on 24-25 April 2025, will provide up to the minute insights into subjects as the health and welfare needs of insect herds, the global growth of the insect-based pet food industry, the incredible protein content and health benefits of insects, and why insects can slot in alongside traditional pastoral and agricultural practices to create the perfect circular model of farming. Reflecting the now very substantial UK sector - estimated at around 60 farmed insect protein focused companies, with new ones starting every month - the occasion will also include presentations from leading entrepreneurs, a panel discussion, practical workshops, an exhibition and a strong focus on networking, including a celebratory meal with insect-based dishes on the menu. UKEIA actually started in 2015 as a group of ‘insect enthusiasts’ who came together under the name Woven, but the past decade has seen the group transform into an essential trade body, which has bold plans to grow its influence in the political sphere. UKEIA is also keen to gather information from the wider sector ahead of the conference by updating its most recent ‘state of the nation’ report. Read more>>
NEWS 14 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 Oberland opens first commercial scale BSFL facility A Nova Scotia, Canada based company leveraging biology-fueled technology to set new standards in animal and soil health, Oberland Agriscience Inc. opened its 108,000sqft commercial black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) farm on the periphery of Halifax. Founded in 2017 by Dr. Greg Wanger, Oberland explains it is committed to utilizing modern innovations, such as AI, robotics, and predictive analytics, to elevate the power of black soldier fly larvae, delivering premium, nutritious, science-backed solutions for animal, agriculture, and soil health. "Black soldier fly larvae are a tremendous insect, capable of transforming almost any organic matter into a valuable protein with almost unrivaled efficiency," comments Dr. Greg Wanger. "The food waste challenge isn't going away and the demand for high quality protein continues to escalate. We harness biology and cutting-edge technology to drive nutritional innovation, delivering natural, nutrient-dense solutions." With a Ph.D. in Geology and Environmental Microbiology, plus five years at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab working on their optical organics mapper, SHERLOC, Dr. Wanger has experience sweating the small stuff crucial for getting from the lab bench, through pilot scale into commercial scale. Supported by a team committed to producing a low impact animal and soil nutrition solution, Oberland points out it has spent several years honing its innovative process from pilot to commercial scale. Read more>> BioCraft secures EU registration to sell cell-cultured pet food ingredients BioCraft Pet Nutrition, one of the first biotech companies to develop animal cell-cultured ingredients for the pet food market, received registration from the Austrian authorities to use Category 3 Animal Byproducts (ABP) in the European Union, enabling it to begin selling ingredients to EU pet food producers. Austrian authorities granted BioCraft the registration “for the purpose of multiplying cells for the production of pet food.” There is currently no pre-market approval process in the EU for animal feed ingredients—alternative, novel or otherwise. Companies wishing to sell animal-based ingredients to pet food manufacturers must meet legal requirements to ensure that the feed ingredients are safe and become a registered user of animal byproducts in the EU. BioCraft has now met their obligation as a Feed Business Operator and notified the EU Feed Material Register. Achieving this legal status requires both registration by authorities and a demonstration of the ingredient’s safety and quality vis-à-vis a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan (Regulation 183/2005). A team of veterinary, food safety and food science experts, both in-house and third party, generated safety data following dossier requirements for an EU Feed Additive (Regulation (EC) No 1831/2003)—the highest standard for any material going into pet food—to demonstrate the safety and quality of BioCraft’s product. Read more>>
NEWS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 15 Globe Buddy unveils dog treats containing insect protein Innovative pet food brand Globe Buddy unveiled its latest sustainable dog treats, Luxx Rewards and Luxx Dental Sticks, at Expozoo Paris Animal Show from March 7-9, 2025. Crafted with premium French-sourced insect protein, the company points out that these treats deliver a nutritious, delicious, and eco-conscious alternative to traditional meat-based snacks—proving that great taste and sustainability can go paw in paw. “Pet parents across Europe are looking for sustainable choices, and we’re meeting that demand with high-quality treats that are good for dogs and the planet,” says Bjarne Gravesen Jensen, CEO of Globe Buddy. “Insect protein has a naturally low climate impact, making it a smart and responsible option for conscious pet owners.” Sourced from Ÿnsect, the premium insect protein in Luxx Rewards and Luxx Dental Sticks is nutritious, easily digestible, and packed with essential nutrients, Globe Buddy explains. While Luxx Rewards are perfect for training and daily rewards, Luxx Dental Sticks are designed to support oral health with their special texture and high-quality ingredients. Additionally, the insect protein used in these products has a carbon footprint of just 3.20 kg CO₂e per kg of protein, compared to 55.16 kg CO₂e for beef used in pet food. Read more>> Unibio secures Saudi approval for its microbial SCP Unibio’s microbial single-cell protein, Uniprotein®, was officially approved for use in aquaculture for fish and crustaceans by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA). Following a comprehensive review process that began in April 2023, the SFDA has confirmed the safety of Uniprotein® for use in feed for fish and shrimp. With this approval, Uniprotein® is now cleared for sale to the Saudi feed industry and can be tested in commercial conditions, reinforcing the significant benefits of microbial single-cell protein. The company describes Uniprotein® as a high-quality, sustainable protein that serves as a viable alternative to traditional protein sources such as fishmeal and soy. Its amino acid profile closely mirrors that of fishmeal, and it has already been approved for use in feed for both terrestrial and aquatic animals in the European Union. Global approvals are ongoing, Unibio states. Uniprotein® stands out for its consistent quality, being free of pesticides and antibiotic, full traceability, and non-GMO status, the company points out. The product has generated strong interest from customers around the world and is currently under development for potential direct human consumption. “We are pleased to announce that Uniprotein® has been approved for aquaculture applications in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This is a significant step into KSA, a key region that is working towards feed and food self-sufficiency under the Vision 2030 program, while increasing local fish production,” said Olivier Hartz, CCO at Unibio. Read more>>
ISSUE FOCUS 16 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 ALTERNATIVE PROTEIN SOURCES AND THEIR USE IN ANIMAL FEED
ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 17 The Insect Oil Advantage: Healthy animals, plus a greener future Piotr Postepski, Protix European Insect Industry: Driving protein autonomy and job creation Christophe Derrien, IPIFF BSFL: Better health & welfare for poultry Thomas Stringer, Flybox® Insects could transform plastic waste into protein Rodrigo Llauradó Casares BSF Meal in Aquafeed: Why now is the time to move forward Aubin Bernard, Flylab Yeast as a sustainable single-cell protein for aquafeed Geoff Bell & An Grobler, MicroBioGen
ISSUE FOCUS 18 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 The animal feed and pet food industries rely heavily on fats and oils to provide proper nutrition and aid functionality. However, access to raw materials is becoming increasingly challenging. Insect oil is a viable alternative. By starting trials, feed manufacturers can reap immediate benefits, such as a lower footprint, while paving the way for more health advantages. THE INSECT OIL ADVANTAGE: Healthy animals, plus a greener future Piotr Postepski Chief Commercial Officer Protix SCARCITY OF RAW MATERIALS Animal feed and pet food manufacturers face a number of challenges. Scarcity of raw materials, triggered by the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and high demand for specific oils and fats in the pet industry, means spiralling costs. The new regulation on deforestation-free products introduced in December 2024 affects many livestock manufacturers selling within or exporting from the EU as it requires them to show that their forest-based products such as soy and palm kernel oil are legal, not sourced from deforested land, and do not contribute to degradation, including changes that harm biodiversity and ecosystem health. Pet food manufacturers have to deal with fierce competition for specific oils and fats due to increasing demand from other sectors. Moreover, the pet food industry is witnessing a marked increase in ‘humanisation’. In practise, that means pet owners expect the same high quality for their pets as they demand for themselves, leading to increased demand for environmentally-friendly ingredients. Ensuring the year-round availability of sufficient supplies at a viable price is a prime concern both in the livestock and pet sectors. NOVEL OILS CREATING A BUZZ As well as matching the functionality of conventional sources such as soy, coconut, palm kernel oil, and poultry fats, there are other important considerations when seeking novel sources of fat. Palatability and digestibility are of crucial importance. Health or performance benefits, consistent quality, and ease of ingredients handling are also high on the agenda. And the environmental footprint of ingredients is becoming increasingly important. To meet all these requirements, manufacturers are looking beyond traditional sources and opening their minds to other interesting concepts. And one source of ingredients causing a real buzz in the animal feed and pet food industries is insects. Specifically, fat derived from the larvae of the black soldier fly, or Hermetia illucens to give it its Latin name.
ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 19 THREE UNIQUE BENEFITS OF INSECT OIL Insect ingredients, particularly black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) ingredients, have been gaining increasing traction, and the benefits are irrefutable. Firstly, insects are rich in nutrients and natural sources of nutrition for many animals. Images of dogs and cats snapping the air for passing critters may be amusing, but these canny canines and frolicking felines are simply following their innate instincts. We see it in poultry and pigs too, that seem at their happiest when doing what comes naturally by foraging for insects. Secondly, black soldier fly ingredients can be produced with a very low environmental footprint. This is because the black soldier fly is farmed vertically which minimises land and water use. Moreover, its production has lower CO2 emissions than traditional ingredient production. The environmental benefits of insect ingredients are well documented. Finally, and perhaps the most compelling reason to opt for black soldier fly ingredients, is that this miniscule creature comes with a mighty appetite. The larvae quickly devour by-products from the food and agricultural industry. This means they are capable of solving our waste problem at the same time. INTRODUCING LipidX: A TURNKEY SOLUTION Protix identified the black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) as a superior source of fat many years ago. By combining nature with high-tech, the company is able to create a nutritious insect oil that is naturally good for animals and good for the planet. LipidX is a purified, high-quality fat from Protix, with a fatty acid profile similar to coconut oil. It is rich in medium-chain fatty acids, which make it the perfect source of easily digestible energy for animals. In particular, LipidX typically contains 39% lauric acid. Lauric acid is valued for its antimicrobial properties in the digestive tract, which contribute to a healthier immune system and support overall animal health maintenance. Though similar in general fatty acid profile to coconut oil, LipidX has a different triglyceride profile, notably containing nearly twice as much trilaurin as coconut oil. THE IMMEDIATE ADVANTAGE: A LOW FOOTPRINT Protix is able to produce LipidX with a very low environmental footprint. To underpin its green cre-
ISSUE FOCUS 20 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 dentials, independent assessment by the highly regarded DIL German Institute of Food Technology shows that LipidX insect fat uses 99% less land than poultry fat. Compared to coconut oil, it uses 86% less water and produces 88% fewer CO2 emissions. High-quality insect oil from Protix means manufacturers can comply with legislation and satisfy market preferences with ease. COMPARABLE OR IMPROVED PERFORMANCE Compatibility studies show that replacing traditional ingredients with LipidX yield comparable or improved results in terms of performance. For example, in a study conducted by Wageningen Livestock Research in collaboration with poultry processor Esbro and feed producer ForFarmers, 2,5% LipidX delivered higher daily body weight gain compared to a control diet with an equivalent amount of lauric acid from PKAFD (palm kernel fatty acid distillate). A large-scale follow-up study investigated 1% soybean oil in broiler feed replaced by LipidX. The results show similar growth performance, litter quality, welfare, slaughter yields and slaughter quality under practical field conditions. Thus, compared with the control diet, the inclusion of LipidX can be used to address the pressing challenge of raw materials supply without impacting on broiler health and welfare. FUNCTIONAL BENEFITS In addition, research shows that LipidX potentially offers health and performance benefits. Emerging studies show that LipidX can offer particular benefits in various growth phases of poultry, pig, and cow. Furthermore, a general positive effect that is repeated by many studies with different animal types is improvement of the gut health status, an important factor in rearing efficient and resilient livestock. Moreover, the level of medium-chain fatty acids in LipidX can represent a promising option to support the brain energy and cognition of senior animals, for example in dogs. Broilers A study conducted by a Dutch feed company A palatable and digestible option As pet parents everywhere are aware, a promise of good nutrition means nothing if the animal simply refuses the food! Highlights from new research awaiting publication indicate that dogs fed a diet replacing 20% of highly-palatable chicken fat with LipidX maintained good food intake. And owners preferred the odour of the feed with LipidX. The full study results will highlight that incorporating LipidX is a straightforward way to lower the pawprint and potentially boost animal health in a formulation pets will happily swallow. Further research published in the Journal of Animal Science underscores the suitability of insect oil as a safe, well-tolerated, and readily accepted alternative for dogs. A study demonstrated that the digestibility of macro-nutrients remained at very high levels. Moreover, key indicators of health and nutritional status - such as body weight, stool quality, and blood parameters - remained stable, reinforcing the potential of black soldier fly oil as a viable fat replacer in pet food formulations.
ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 21 Mortality (%) End weight (g) 2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5 0.0 2490 2472 2454 2436 2416 2400 1.110 1.105 1.100 1.095 1.090 1.085 1.080 FCR Insect oil (100%) Soybean/insect oil (50%:50%) Palm kernel oil (100%) Soybean oil (100%) showed that Protix’s LipidX is a great alternative to the soybean and palm oil kernel commonly used. A diet with 100% insect oil resulted in an improved feed conversion ratio (FCR), better growth and reduced mortality compared with a control diet based on plant and vegetable oils (Figure 1). Piglets In a study with piglets conducted by a large Dutch animal feed company, Protix’s insect oil was shown to boost immunity and improve feed intake during the critical weaning period. The high lauric acid content allows piglets’ delicate intestinal villi and digestive system to develop naturally, producing a stronger immune system, reduced antibiotic reliance and lower mortality rates. Cow feeds LipidX as an ingredient in Calf Milk Replacer (CMR) reduced the risk of diarrhoea in the first three weeks of life. This might be attributed to the positive effects of lauric acid and the form in which it is present in LipidX, or to improvements in fat digestibility. LipidX demonstrated its ability to improve intestinal health during this critical period of life while maintaining growth performance. Feed efficiency, wither height growth, and other parameters of growth performance were maintained at levels comparable to those achieved with a high-performing commercial control CMR. STUDIES NEEDED TO UNLOCK ADDITIONAL HEALTH BENEFITS Protix is committed to further unlocking the health and performance benefits of insect-based ingredients for animal feed and pet food to shape a natural and low-impact future. The company continues to amass a body of scientific evidence, in close collaboration with manufacturers, research institutions and other stakeholders. Protix invites animal feed and pet food manufacturers and their customers to reach out and start trials. Manufacturers and their customers can benefit immediately from a lower environmental footprint while the trials continue to reveal additional health advantages for animals. TRIALLING WITH LipidX Protix understands the importance of reliable and consistent outcomes for manufacturers in the animal feed and pet food industries. That’s why LipidX meets the highest standards of Good Manufacturing Practice Plus (GMP+), SecureFeed, and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), and fully complies with European feed legislation. However, Protix’s commitment to quality goes beyond meeting these regulatory requirements. LipFigure 1. Protix insect oil reduces mortality, improved end weight, and results in a significantly better feed conversion ratio (FCR).
ISSUE FOCUS 22 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 About Piotr Postepski Piotr Postepski has been the Chief Commercial Officer at Protix since August 2024, bringing nearly two decades of international experience in the pharmaceutical sector. Trained as a veterinarian with a master's degree from the Agricultural University of Lublin, Poland, he further enhanced his business management and leadership skills at the Warsaw School of Economics and London Business School. Before joining Protix, Postepski served as Global Commercial and Corporate Development Director and played a key role in scaling a global, publicly listed, innovative animal health business. At Protix, Piotr Postepski is responsible for driving international expansion and leading the sales, marketing, business development, and product development teams. idX sets itself apart by superior product quality and as a functionally excellent insect oil. This is the result of careful choices in its production process. First of all, Protix has deliberately chosen to integrate farming and ingredient production within a single facility, giving the company complete control over the entire production chain. This allows Protix to maintain rigorous quality standards at every stage, resulting in consistently high-quality ingredients that manufacturers can rely on year-round. Furthermore, Protix stands out with its cutting-edge wet processing technology, which extracts fat from larvae in just 60 minutes. Unlike conventional dry processing, Protix’s method separates fats and proteins before drying. This crucial difference can elevate LipidX to unique heights of quality and functional value. Due to lower processing temperatures and shorter heating times, Protix can offer a higher quality fat. Its wet method maintains the beneficial properties of insect fat, ensuring optimal performance in various applications. EVERYTHING TO GAIN As concerns about raw materials intensify, coupled with concerns for the future of our planet, the search for more sustainable oils and fats becomes ever more urgent. Insects are a turnkey solution garnering great interest. They guarantee a lower environmental footprint, while matching the performance of conventional diets. As the body of evidence in favour of the black soldier fly grows, potential health benefits are also becoming more evident. For forward-thinking manufacturers, it’s a no-brainer: switching to insect ingredients and starting trials now can only bring benefits.
ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 23 “To date, at least 11 insect species, mostly in the larval stage, have been identified as capable of biodegrading plastics. The most thoroughly documented in terms of efficiency are T. molitor, Tenebrio obscurus, Zophobas atratus, and Galleria mellonella —all noted for their ability to consume and transform EPS and other types of plastic. Similar behaviors have also been observed in other insects such as the black soldier fly, cockroaches, and termites, though more research is needed to confirm their actual effectiveness in plastic degradation.” INSECTS COULD TRANSFORM PLASTIC WASTE INTO PROTEIN Rodrigo Llauradó Casares Communicator & Content Strategist Imagine a larva that eats plastic, digests it, and transforms it into protein for fish — which then feeds people. Not only that: It also produces fertilizer for crops. It sounds promising. But it also raises important questions: Is it safe? Is it viable? In this article, we explore the latest scientific evidence behind this emerging method for reducing plastic waste and generating valuable bio inputs. THE GLOBAL PLASTIC WASTE PROBLEM Each year, humanity produces more plastic than it can manage. In 2021, global plastic production surpassed 390 million tonnes (Yang et al., 2024). Once used, plastic begins a second life —as waste— found in the oceans, in the soil, and even in human bodies: • It is estimated that around 6.4 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year and that over 60% of marine litter is composed of plastic (Yang et al., 2024). • As plastics break down into microplastics and nanoplastics, they alter the composition and function of soil microbiomes, release toxins, and disrupt both root development and nutrient flow in crops (Siddiqui et al., 2024). • Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, and even in the placenta. Although research is still underway, scientists are increasingly concerned about their possible effects — including damage to our cells and organs, problems with reproduction and metabolism, and increased stress in the body (Yang et al., 2024). THE CHALLENGE OF PLASTIC DEGRADATION There are still no truly safe and effective processes for breaking plastic down. Chemical treatment, while more advanced, requires months of processing and the use of corrosive substances such as nitric acid, posing serious environmental risks (Bonilla-Amaya et al., 2024). But why are plastics so hard to degrade? Because they are designed to last. Their structure is so stable
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