Food giants are starting to bet on a new type of protein: insects.
What’s happening:
- Tyson Foods is investing into Netherlands based insect protein startup Protix to advance their production capabilities
- Together, Tyson Foods and Protix will build a first of its kind facility that is purpose built to upcycle manufacturing byproduct into insect protein
Why it matters:
- Soy is currently the most used ingredient in animal feed products but the production of soy is closely linked with deforestation and negative environmental consequences
- Insect proteins are widely considered a more sustainable and climate friendly input for animal feed
By the numbers:
- Protix currently supplies their insect based protein ingredients into more than 15 countries globally
The intrigue:
- Tyson Foods and Protix have publicly stated that they will look to supply their ingredients across animal feed, aquaculture and even pet food
