The International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) and The UK Edible Insect Association (UKEIA) have entered into a strategic partnership representing over 100 industry players from more than 15 countries.
The UK Edible Insect Association (UKEIA) and the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) have agreed in principle to establish a formal strategic partnership aimed at strengthening international coordination across the insect sector. Together, the two organisations represent more than 100 industry players operating across over 15 countries, spanning applications in insects for food, feed, fertiliser, and the wider circular economy.
According to a statement, the partnership will prioritise:
• Alignment of core sector messaging and international communications,
• Coordination of global industry events to maximise participation and visibility,
• Exchange of best practices across production, sustainability, and market development,
• Cooperation on science-based, proportionate, and innovation-enabling regulatory engagement.
As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve globally, both organisations underline the importance of coordinated leadership among regional industry bodies to ensure clarity, credibility, and long-term investor confidence. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to responsible growth, scientific integrity, and pragmatic policy engagement, while fully preserving each organisation’s autonomy and governance independence.
Welcoming the announcement, Adam Bensusan, UKEIA Board Member and Black Soldier Fly Lead, commented: “I’m absolutely delighted to see UKEIA and IPIFF formalise a strategic partnership. At a time when the insect sector is scaling rapidly and regulatory alignment is more important than ever, this collaboration sends a strong signal about unity, ambition and professionalism across our industry. Strengthening the link between the UK and European platforms will help drive innovation, support sensible policy development and accelerate market confidence in insect protein and frass-based products.”
From IPIFF’s perspective, the value of closer cooperation was also highlighted by Board Member Ivan Nikolic, who noted: “We are thrilled to reinforce our cooperation with the UK Edible Insect Association. By joining forces, we are not only sharing valuable scientific and market expertise but also uniting the voices of over 100 member companies. This strengthened transboundary alliance is crucial for advancing common advocacy goals and unlocking the full potential of the insect sector across Europe.”
The practical impact of aggregating industry expertise was further emphasised by Steven Barbosa, IPIFF Secretary-General: “The true power of this reinforced cooperation is evident at my desk every day. Aggregating the expertise of over 100 companies gives us a 360-degree view of the sector—from lab breakthroughs to market realities. This collective intelligence is our most effective tool; it allows us to anticipate regulatory hurdles, craft evidence-based policy positions, and defend the interests of the insect industry with the authority that only a united front can provide.”
According to Dr. Geoffrey Knott, UKEIA Chair and Novel Foods Lead, improved coordination is essential for emerging sectors: “Fragmentation slows emerging sectors. Coordination accelerates them. By strengthening alignment between the UK and European industry bodies and extending cooperation globally we are reinforcing a science-led, credible framework for sector growth. Autonomy remains important, but structured collaboration is how this industry moves forward responsibly.”
Looking ahead, Adriana Casillas, President of IPIFF, pointed to the policy implications of the partnership: “As President of IPIFF, my foremost priority is steering the development of a robust Policy Roadmap that directly tackles the critical challenges facing our sector. This roadmap is our call to action: we urge EU leaders to integrate the insect industry into key policy initiatives without delay. By forging a stronger partnership with the UK Edible Insect Association, we ensure this journey is not walked alone. The collective expertise of over 100 companies on both sides of the Channel will make our advocacy more effective and our voice impossible to ignore.”
