Insectlab: a breeding ground of knowledge

“If we want to meet the future need for animal protein, we will need to further develop the rearing and processing of insects,” states FAO. That requires more knowledge. 

“The whole chain will need to take major strides in the technological development, scaling up and food safety of insect rearing,” says Linda Bonte, Senior Advisor at HAS Training and Consultancy. “But there is still insufficient basic knowledge, about both product and sales opportunities.” 

“In particular, there’s a lack of applied knowledge,” adds Linda. “The results of existing (often fundamental) studies can’t always be applied in daily practice. Furthermore, a growing insect industry will require qualified employees and new entrepreneurs. The need for training and practical research is the main driver behind Insectlab.” HAS collaborates with the likes of insect farmers, Agri Food Capital, WUR, NGN, Venik and suppliers to the insect industry.

Research questions

Insectlab conducts research into the black soldier fly (for feed), mealworms or similar insects (for food and feed) and crickets (for food). Among other things, the studies are focused on the most optimal growth conditions, the feed needs of various insects and possible waste flows from the food industry that may be suitable for this, and whether there are possibilities to alter the protein percentage in the insect through feed. “We’re also looking into ways of isolating proteins, fats and other substances from insects and of introducing these into food products separately. At the moment, the cost price of insect protein is still too high compared with fish or soy protein, for example. In order for that price to fall, the automation level must be increased and insects must be farmed on a larger scale. We’re exploring those possibilities in collaboration with machine builders and technical training courses within the sector.”

Knowledge sharing

Insectlab keeps interested parties up to date through trend lectures at HAS University of Applied Sciences. In conjunction with HAS, NGN and WUR there is also an insect rearing course which is available in both English and Dutch. “The huge demand for knowledge has meant that Insectlab is rapidly outgrowing itself!” laughs Linda, “so we’re already looking at expansion options.”

www.has.nl/nl/kenniscentrum/Insectlab