ISSUE FOCUS FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE April 2024 53 “The production of insects and the use of insect-based products in animal feed is growing worldwide and safety issues related to insect farming and processing remain a major concern for the feed industry such as pet food, aquafeed, livestock feed. Insect producers are becoming more professional by establishing and adhering to the rules.” ENSURING QUALITY, FEED SAFETY AND HYGIENE: A COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE Azwa Aasdik Quality Assurance Manager Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia Sdn Bhd Tze Min Teo Chief R&D Officer Entofood Sdn Bhd Insect farming has become increasingly popular in Asia and there are challenges involved in the scaling of insect protein particularly related to quality control measures, risk assessments due to the absence of an international regulatory framework. A recent study conducted by the Asian Food and Feed Insects Association (AFFIA) in 20221 found that nearly most of the Southeast Asian surveyed producers refer to global standards such as the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP/GMP+), HACCP, and to IPIFF Good Hygiene Practice guidelines2. These guidelines emphasise good hygiene practices and incorporate HACCP principles for insect production, addressing specific concerns outlined by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)3. While sector-specific hygiene guides are encouraged, compliance remains voluntary for insect producers, with the guide serving as a reference rather than a substitute for regulation. It also applies to third country operators wishing to sell insect products in the EU, indicating compliance with EU standards. The guidelines outline the details of importing insect products, and emphasises compliance with specific regulations and certification requirements. It covers subsequent activities within the EU, including packaging, transport, and retailing4. HEALTH & SAFETY STANDARDS Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia Sdn Bhd, one of the largest producers of Black Soldier Fly in Asia Pacific, has its facility located in the north of Kuala Lumpur,
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