ISSUE FOCUS Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2025 35 REGULATORY PROGRESS, BSF’S FULL POTENTIAL Traditionally, many countries restricted BSF rearing to substrates to feed-grade materials, limiting the insect’s full potential as a waste upcycler. This limitation not only increased production costs, but also limited one of BSF’s most important sustainability advantages: Its ability to eat organic waste, diverting it from landfill and transforming it into high-value protein. Scientific research has consistently demonstrated that BSF larvae can safely consume a wide range of organic waste substrates without posing risks to animal or human health. Multiple risk assessments, including studies by EFSA (European Food Safety Authority), have confirmed that, when managed under controlled conditions, BSF production using non-feed-grade waste does not lead to bioaccumulation of heavy metals, pathogens, or contaminants in the final insect meal. The regulatory changes will unlock access to lowcost, abundant organic waste such as post-consumer waste, allowing to further lower the price of BSF products and help staying true to the environmental mission that drives our industry forward. MOVING FORWARD, FROM ALTERNATIVE TO ESSENTIAL As feed ingredient markets continue to evolve under the pressure of climate change, supply chain disruptions, and consumer expectations, BSF meal is moving from being seen as an "alternative" to a standard, yet more functional, ingredient in aquafeed formulations. Insect producing companies have now mostly standardized their offerings, and it is possible to find a whole panel of different BSF protein meals, some with more fat, some with more bioactive compounds, some with higher concentration of protein. Each company produces slightly different products that enable a fit to different species with different needs. Global feed companies are now also developing diets and supplements tailored for BSF larvae. While this will take time and research, insect meal will be a major ingredient in aquafeed in the coming years. It is crucial that aquafeed companies continue their efforts and work closely with insect producers to find the right fit. In summary, with regulatory support, scientific validation, and increasing consumer demand, BSF is no longer a niche option; it is a necessity. BSF is not here to replace fishmeal or soy. It is here to redefine what a protein source can be. At Flylab and across the emerging BSF sector, we are building a new vision for feed, one that is circular, sustainable, and aligned with the expectations of today’s consumers. About Aubin Bernard With more than 6 years of insect rearing experience in laboratories and industrial set-ups, Aubin is passionate about insects and nature conservation. Having kept over 200 total different species, Aubin Bernard now focuses solely on Black Soldier Flies. Currently based in Bangkok, Aubin is a French self-taught entomologist who chose hands-on experience over academia.
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