Automated turnkey insect rearing farm. Enabling farmers to produce their own sustainable insect protein feed

Project Information

FarmInsect

Grant agreement ID: 190164847

DOI

10.3030/190164847

Project closed

EC signature date 21 December 2022

Start date 1 January 2023

End date 31 December 2024

Funded under

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Total cost

€ 3 575 125,00

EU contribution

€ 2 499 999,00

Coordinated by

FARMINSECT GMBH
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - FarmInsect (Automated turnkey insect rearing farm. Enabling farmers to produce their own sustainable insect protein feed)

Reporting period: 2024-01-01 to 2024-12-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The global food system faces mounting challenges from population growth, climate change, and resource depletion. Traditional protein sources such as soy and fishmeal come at a high environmental cost, driving deforestation and overfishing. FarmInsect, backed by the Horizon Europe Programme, is pioneering a new approach to sustainable protein production by harnessing the power of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) farming. Through this innovative model, organic waste is transformed into high-quality protein, fats, and frass, a nutrient-rich fertilizer. This circular approach reduces environmental impact while enhancing food security.

FarmInsect’s goal is to develop scalable and cost-effective insect farming technologies that integrate seamlessly into existing agricultural systems. Instead of relying on centralized production, the company promotes a decentralized model, enabling regional farming clusters where farmers and entrepreneurs can set up local BSF production. By repurposing agricultural byproducts as feedstock, this approach not only provides a sustainable alternative to conventional animal feed but also reduces costs, transportation emissions, and dependence on imported protein sources.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

Over the course of the project, FarmInsect has made significant advancements in breeding optimization, feed efficiency, automation, and business model validation. The company has developed specialized breeding programs that improve larval growth rates and adaptability to various organic feed sources. Feeding trials in poultry, and pig farming have demonstrated the nutritional and economic benefits of BSF-based feed, positioning it as a viable alternative to traditional ingredients like soy and fishmeal.

To enhance efficiency, automated climate control, feeding, and harvesting systems have been implemented, reducing labor costs and increasing production output. One of the most innovative developments has been the young larvae transportation system, which allows young larvae to be transported across greater distances while maintaining optimal conditions. This advancement significantly lowers logistics costs and carbon emissions. Additionally, the business model validation confirmed that decentralized BSF farming can be both profitable and environmentally sustainable, providing farmers with a new revenue stream while strengthening regional food supply chains.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

FarmInsect is setting a new standard in insect-based protein production by making BSF farming accessible and adaptable to different agricultural environments. Unlike large-scale centralized insect farms, its decentralized model empowers small and medium-sized farmers to integrate BSF production directly into their operations. This approach reduces reliance on long-distance feed supply chains and fosters a more resilient and localized food system.

A key innovation is the use of agricultural side streams such as grape and elderberry pomace as feed for larvae. By converting these underutilized byproducts into valuable protein sources, FarmInsect strengthens the circular economy and lowers feed costs. The company has also developed advanced automation and data-driven decision-making tools that optimize production efficiency. Using sensor technology, machine learning, and real-time monitoring, farmers can track and adjust environmental conditions, ensuring consistent growth and resource efficiency.

To further accelerate adoption, FarmInsect is actively partnering with food and agricultural companies, working closely with regulators to ensure insect-based feed gains wider approval across different animal sectors. Research efforts continue to refine breeding techniques, feed optimization, and automation, ensuring that BSF farming remains at the cutting edge of sustainable agriculture.