Insect sector outlines 2017 plans

In the wake of the green light given by EU Member States on the use of insect proteins as fish feed in Europe, IPIFF commits to assist insect producers in the implementation of the legislation, which will apply as from 1st July 2017.

IPIFF is notably engaged, in the development of a guidance paper documenting best practice in quality and hygienic insect production. The completion of the project is forecasted for the end of 2017. Looking ahead, IPIFF is also considering options for extending regulatory opportunities on the use of insect as animal feed. More specifically, IPIFF members believe that, on the middle term period, insects could be an important addition in feed for poultry and pig species.

Safe use of a few ‘high-grade’ substrates

Furthermore, EU insect producers recognise the potential for insects to offer recycling solutions for certain residues originating from the agri-food chain. Against this background, IPIFF pleads for expanding scientific investigations on the safe use of a few ‘high-grade’ substrates that are currently not authorised as feedstock for insects in Europe: these include for instance, former foodstuffs containing meat and fish and, catering waste. Their authorisation as feed for insects could be envisaged in the future, if the European Food Safety Authority assures that these do not entail safety risks.

The popularity of insect meal as a new protein has taken off – find out about new developments, regulations and innovations.

Supporting application process

With regards to insects for food applications, IPIFF commits to assisting insect producers in the implementation of the EU Novel Food legislation. The text requires insect producers to submit a fully documented application to EU public authorities, with the view of authorising their products as food on the European market. To his end, IPIFF offers its support to help producers fulfilling these procedures, in collaboration with stakeholders representing the interests of insects producing companies. In the meantime, IPIFF members ask for effective implementation of the transitional measures foreseen in the Novel Food legislation. From IPIFF’s point of view, all insect producers complying with EU food legislation should benefit from this possibility granted by the legislator.

Major insect conference planned

Finally, IPIFF is proud to announce the organisation of a major conference on ‘Insects for Food & Feed’ by the end of the year. The objective of the conference is to take stock of current regulatory progress made for the sector and to explore future opportunities for the EU insect and agri-food value chains. This conference should take place in November 2017 (precise date to be confirmed).