BioMar has completed the testing of insect meal in feeds for aquaculture and believe it shows promise as an alternative protein source.
This is one among multiple other novel ingredients like algae oil or single cell proteins that BioMar has been investigating. BioMar believes these raw materials can address some of the needs of the market and are now eager to speed up their adoption through the creation of innovative feed solutions targeting the needs of seafood consumers.
Michel Autin, technical director at BioMar’s EMEA Division, said: “Innovation of course comes at a cost, but farmers who are the first movers with insect meal will benefit from a strong market position. Insect meal has a future as an alternative protein source in aquaculture feeds if the price of this new raw material can be kept at reasonable limits. - We have good test results on insect meal originating from black soldier flies, mealworms and others, which makes it a promising raw material.
BioMar has been investigating insect meal since 2015 in its research and development centres. From 2017, it has been undertaking tests with our customers who have been feeding their fish on diets containing insect meal. These fish have already made their way to supermarkets in Europe among retailers eager to implement future-oriented food solutions that focus on natural foods."
BioMar said it has initiated a few projects with customers to address consumer needs and expectations. Earlier this year, it visited some customers in France and Scandinavia is planned to be the next destination.
Mr Autin said: “We know that fish farmers from these countries are at the forefront of current developments in consumer behaviour and we have ongoing talks with customers in these areas.”
