Bühler and Protix to boost industrial insect production

Bühler and Protix have announced the establishment of Bühler Insect Technology Solutions. The joint venture will develop scalable, industrial solutions for the rearing, and processing of insects to provide protein primarily for animal feed and food. Initially, the focus will be on larvae of the Black Soldier Fly. Subsequently there will be a diversification to other insects, such as mealworms. “By combining the knowledge and experience of our two companies, we can provide industrial insect processing solutions to address the alternative protein market.”

January 18, 2017

Bühler Insect Technology Solutions is located in China and has already begun operations. “By combining the knowledge and experience of our two companies, we can provide industrial insect processing solutions to address the alternative protein market,” explained Ian Roberts, CTO of Bühler.

“Together, we can develop both sustainable and cost effective solutions for large scale insect producers and processors that cover the whole value chain,” added Kees Aarts, CEO of Protix.

Protix, founded in 2009 in the Netherlands, currently processes 1,600 tonnes of insect larvae per year and produces high quality, insect-based ingredients. The company was recognized as a Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum in 2015.

“Protix is the most advanced insect company that has demonstrated industrial-scale production in a way that is scalable and multipliable. They have proven how to create a market in insect protein,” explained Roberts.

Now they are ready to take the company to the next level and need a partner who understands the requirements of large, industrial processors.

“Bühler has a strong, established business providing technologies for animal feed, and protein from the insects can be used in pellets, or directly as animal feed. With our global market access, technology base, and engineering capabilities, combined with the deep knowledge, experience and entrepreneurial flair of Protix, we have the ingredients for a successful commercial partnership,” stated Roberts.

The goal of the joint venture is to develop industrial scale solutions for feedstock processing, larvae rearing and larvae processing, and to produce high-quality insect ingredients – covering the whole value chain from rearing to separation and extraction of proteins and lipids. Initially, the focus will be on larvae of the Black Soldier Fly. Subsequently there will be a diversification to other insects, such as mealworms.

Learn more about Bühler Insect Technology Solutions