INTERVIEW 50 Alternative Proteins Magazine October 2025 protein market. The EU should view this as a catalyst to enhance its own protein diversification and food sovereignty. We see three key implications: • A More Resilient Feed System: This marks a decisive shift away from a monolithic, soy-centric model. The future will be diversified and regional, with blocs like the EU leveraging local resources to bolster food security. • A Global Catalyst for Alternatives: The scale of Chinese demand will accelerate innovation and investment in alternative proteins. Insect farming is uniquely positioned to benefit, as its efficient, decentralised production aligns with self-sufficiency goals. • Validation of Strategic Autonomy: China’s move confirms that "protein self-sufficiency" is a top-tier geopolitical priority, a concern that resonates deeply with the ambitions of the EU Protein Strategy. In this new context, a coordinated global effort is essential. IPIFF is proactively building a unified voice for the insect sector by collaborating with partner organisations worldwide, including in North America (NACIA), Asia (AFFIA), and China. By aligning our scientific, regulatory, and market efforts across continents, we are ensuring the global insect community works in concert to promote sustainable growth and secure a resilient food future. What role will insect protein play in Europe's sustainable and self-sufficient food and feed systems by 2030? How do you foresee regulations and industry practices evolving? By 2030, insect protein must evolve from a promising alternative into a strategic pillar of Europe's sustainable food system. Its transformative potential lies in advancing three core EU objectives: • A Driver of Circularity: Insects will be a primary solution for valorising millions of tonnes of agri-food waste into high-quality nutrients, creating a true circular bioeconomy. • A Cornerstone of Food Security: As a homegrown, scalable protein, it will be a standard ingredient in animal feed, directly reducing Europe's dependency on imported sources like soy. • A Climate Solution: With a low environmental footprint, insect production requires less land and water, directly contributing to the EU's climate and biodiversity goals. To realise this vision, we must accelerate beyond current, slow authorisation processes. We need a streamlined, science-based framework that: • Expands Substrate Approvals to include a broader list of safe, pre-approved agri-food by-products, • Creates Efficient Novel Food Pathways for faster approval of new insect species and food applications, • Defines Holistic End-Points to recognise the value of all insect-derived products, such as frass as a certified organic fertiliser. The pace of Europe's regulatory action will determine its leadership in the global bioeconomy. With the right support, insect protein can be a cornerstone of a more resilient and self-sufficient Europe by 2030. Despite growing interest in alternative proteins, consumer concerns persist. What do you think are the main reasons for these concerns? Is it safety concerns, lack of awareness, or cultural barriers? What different steps can the industry take to improve consumer perception and trust? This question allows me to highlight the distinct benefits of various insect-derived products, addressing the unique opportunities and consumer perspectives within each market segment.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjkxNQ==