Nasekomo, a Bulgarian insect agriculture startup, is set to revolutionize the insect farming industry with its innovative delivery service for black soldier fly (BSF) neonates. This groundbreaking system allows the tiny larvae to be placed in a state of suspended animation for up to ten days without the need for refrigeration, providing insect farmers with a reliable and efficient way to focus on rearing and processing. CEO Marc Bolard shared insights with AgFunderNews about the implications of this advancement, which promises to enhance the productivity of insect protein production facilities.
The suspended larvae can be reactivated upon arrival at their destination by simply placing them on feedstock, boasting a remarkable 95% recovery rate. Bolard emphasizes that this method not only eliminates the logistical complexities associated with low-temperature storage during transit but also ensures a consistent and stable supply of larvae for producers. The suspended neonates are expected to demonstrate superior growth performance and efficiency compared to their non-suspended counterparts, thereby giving farmers a competitive edge in the burgeoning insect protein market.
Nasekomo is not just focused on transportation innovations; it also has a joint venture with French animal genetics expert Groupe Grimaud, known as Fly Genetics. This partnership leverages advanced genetic selection techniques to produce larvae with enhanced growth rates, feed conversion efficiency, and resilience. Bolard explains that these traits enable producers to achieve higher yields and operate more sustainably compared to other market players. Starting in September, Nasekomo will expand its neonate delivery service through an online portal, allowing insect farmers to order both standard and suspended larvae conveniently.
The process of inducing suspended animation in the larvae is a closely guarded innovation. Similar to Israeli startup FreezeM, which also offers “paused” neonates, Nasekomo employs an undisclosed substrate to facilitate this state. Bolard notes that while the substrate is crucial, the entire set of conditions—from the environment where the neonates are laid and hatched to the packaging process—plays a significant role in slowing down the larvae’s metabolism. The company has already sent neonates to nearly 100 customers, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback, and aims to expand its delivery services to a diverse array of companies involved in insect protein production, aquaculture feed, and other sustainable food sectors.
As the industry matures, Bolard asserts that insect farming must become increasingly automated and data-driven. Nasekomo is collaborating with tech giant Siemens to develop a standardized insect bioconversion system. While the company currently operates a demo facility in Bulgaria to showcase its technology, it does not intend to own and operate its facilities in the long term. Instead, Bolard believes that a franchise model will be the fastest way to scale their technology. The first undisclosed franchise partner, described as a “green investor,” is set to open a facility in Bulgaria by 2025.
The larvae produced by Nasekomo can thrive on various industrial byproducts, including rice and wheat bran and brewers’ spent grains. The franchise model positions Nasekomo as an enabler, providing franchisees with everything they need to develop and run their operations, from young insects to the necessary infrastructure and patented solutions that integrate AI algorithms for real-time monitoring and process improvement. Bolard envisions that franchisees will ideally locate their facilities near consistent feed sources, such as food processing plants, although he acknowledges that many food and beverage companies prefer not to diversify into insect farming. Instead, these companies may enter long-term supply agreements to provide feed for nearby insect farming operations.
Nasekomo’s advancements not only promise to streamline logistics in insect farming but also contribute to the development of a circular economy. By collaborating with green investors, waste processors, and agricultural conglomerates, the company aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders involved in the insect protein production chain. As the demand for alternative protein sources continues to rise, Nasekomo’s innovative approaches could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.