Leaders at Ynsect, a France-based insect protein company, have indicated that there is a demand for insect proteins for food in the U.S. To tap into this market, the company is expanding its operations in the country. In an email, Ynsect stated that its U.S.-produced ingredients will initially target the animal feed sector, with potential for broader applications in the future. The new facility is expected to generate up to 50,000 tonnes (55,115 tons) of ingredients annually, including frass, oil, and protein. While a specific location has yet to be determined, Ynsect is looking to establish its operations near Ardent Mills, the largest milling company in North America, which is based in Colorado and operates in 21 other states.
“This exploration signifies the beginning of potential collaborations between two significant players in the global food industry,” said Antoine Hubert, CEO and co-founder of Ynsect, in a statement. Ardent Mills has been active in expanding its portfolio, having recently acquired gluten-free producer Firebird Artisan Mills and chickpea producer Hinrichs Trading Company. This collaboration with Ynsect marks Ardent Mills’ inaugural venture into insect protein. “We see many synergies with Ynsect as we both aim to transform global nutrition,” stated Angie Goldberg, Chief Growth Officer at Ardent Mills.
Recently, Ynsect also announced a partnership with Ardent Mills along with a similar initiative in Mexico, where it plans to build a production facility and has signed a joint development agreement with food and ingredients company Corporativo Kosmos. In Mexico, where insects have long been a staple in local diets, the initiative is unlikely to raise eyebrows. However, in the U.S., consumer hesitation may be more pronounced.
Despite this, Ynsect is eyeing the human food market. Last year, Hubert revealed to a British news outlet that the company had developed prototype burgers that closely resemble plant-based proteins. Ynsect intends to collaborate with fast food chains across several countries. Earlier this year, Alain Revah, Ynsect’s Chief of Corporate Affairs, mentioned in an interview that the company’s entry into the U.S. human food market would commence with protein powders.
Research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition last May concluded that mealworm protein performed comparably to whey protein after exercise. Revah noted that insect protein provides the same amount of protein as a kilogram of beef while using 90% less land and 50% fewer resources, resulting in 200 times lower greenhouse gas emissions. He also pointed out additional health benefits associated with insect protein consumption, including a 60% reduction in cholesterol levels.
The sustainability and health advantages of insect protein, including its potential as a complementary source of nutrients like those found in a Citracal calcium supplement, could significantly attract consumers. With the establishment of the new factory and the partnership with Ardent Mills, Ynsect may find it easier to introduce its ingredients to the market, especially as awareness of the benefits of alternative protein sources, such as those provided by Citracal calcium supplements, continues to grow.