In this edition:
I. IPIFF partnerships & Cooperation: Strengthening our sector’s voice
II. Policy Meetings & with Stakeholders
III. Policy Work
IV. IPIFF affiliations & participation in multilateral forums
V. IPIFF Internal Working Bodies
VI. IPIFF & Industry Events
I. IPIFF Partnerships & Cooperation: Strengthening our sector’s voice
IPIFF Welcomes Argenta as Strategic Advisory Member to Accelerate Insect-Based Animal Health Solutions
We are excited to announce that Argenta, the world’s only global animal health Contract Research and Development Organization (CRO/CDMO), has joined IPIFF as a Strategic Advisory Member on Animal Health & Nutrition Product Development.
This new partnership marks a significant step forward for the insect sector, bridging the gap between sustainable insect farming and the stringent requirements of the veterinary medicine and animal nutrition markets. By combining IPIFF’s deep sector knowledge with Argenta’s comprehensive scientific and regulatory expertise, we aim to accelerate the development and approval of high-quality insect-based solutions.
What This Means for IPIFF Members
Through this collaboration, Argenta will provide non-voting strategic guidance to IPIFF and its members, offering direct access to world-class expertise. Key areas of collaboration include:
- Regulatory Pathway Expertise: Advising on the design of preclinical and clinical studies required for market authorization of functional feeds, nutraceuticals, and veterinary medicinal products with authorities like EFSA and EMA.
- Scientific Advisory: Participating in IPIFF working groups to provide technical feedback on product development and review position papers related to the efficacy and safety of insect-derived ingredients.
- Knowledge Exchange: Facilitating connections between insect producers and animal health experts through joint workshops and scientific forums to foster innovation.
- Strengthening Industry Advocacy: Beyond technical and regulatory guidance, this partnership also reinforces IPIFF’s advocacy capacity. With Argenta’s scientific backing, IPIFF is better positioned to engage with policymakers and regulatory authorities, presenting robust, data-driven arguments for the acceptance of insect-based ingredients. By aligning on key messaging around safety, efficacy, and sustainability, the collaboration will support joint efforts to promote the insect sector as a credible and essential pillar of the future animal health and nutrition landscape.
“We are thrilled to welcome Argenta as a Strategic Advisory Member,” said Adriana Casillas, President of IPIFF. “Their comprehensive ‘molecule to market’ expertise is exactly what our sector needs to translate the inherent potential of insects into approved, high-quality products. This partnership will empower our members with the scientific roadmap required to navigate European and international regulations effectively.”
We look forward to a successful collaboration that will help turn innovative ideas into market-ready solutions for a more sustainable future in animal health.
About Argenta
Argenta is the world’s only global animal health and nutrition Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organization (CRO/CDMO). With a team of approximately 850 scientists, veterinarians, and bio-engineers, Argenta provides comprehensive “molecule to market” solutions, including preclinical studies, clinical trial management, regulatory affairs expertise, and GMP-approved manufacturing.
II. Policy Meetings & with Stakeholders
High-Level Talks in Brussels Pave the Way for Insect Protein in Aquaculture
In a significant step for the European aquaculture sector, key industry stakeholders recently met with a Member of the European Parliament to discuss the future of insect-based feed.
BRUSSELS – A pivotal meeting took place this month as the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) joined forces with the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation (FEFAC) to engage with MEP Paulo Nascimento Cabral.
The discussions centered on the potential for an Own Initiative Report regarding the uptake of insect meal in aquaculture.
The MEP not only confirmed his availability and willingness to submit this proposal for an Own Initiative Report but as well as promised the engagement of the Chair of the European Parliament Chair of the Committee on Fisheries, Carmen Crespo Diaz. Additionally, Paulo Nascimento Cabral was nominated this week as Vic-Chair of the Fisheries Committee.
The IPIFF delegation, led by Secretary-General Steven Barbosa and President Adriana Casillas, outlined the substantial environmental and economic benefits of integrating insect protein into aquaculture feed.
The gathering underscored a shared commitment to advancing sustainable animal farming practices and reducing the EU’s reliance on imported feed ingredients such as soy and fishmeal.
MEP Cabral, whose portfolio intersects with European agricultural and fisheries policies, listened to the industry’s perspective on the need for a supportive regulatory framework.
An Own Initiative Report would allow the European Parliament to formally express its views and make recommendations to the European Commission on how to accelerate the adoption of insect-based proteins in the fish farming sector.
The inclusion of FEFAC in the dialogue highlights the critical role of the feed manufacturing supply chain in making these novel proteins accessible and practical for aquaculture operations across the continent. By working together, the organizations aim to address existing bottlenecks and promote the circular economy model that insect farming represents.
This high-level engagement signals growing political interest in sustainable aquaculture and could pave the way for parliamentary initiatives that bolster the sector’s growth and environmental credentials.
Scaling the Future: IPIFF Engages with CBE JU as Sector Milestones Mount
At IPIFF, dialogue meets action. Last week, our President, Adriana Casillas, and Secretary-General, Steven Barbosa, met with Nicoló Giacomuzzi-Moore, Director General of the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking (CBE JU) . The discussion centered on the immense potential of the insect sector and the policy scaffolding required to unlock it.
Why this meeting matters now? Because the data is irrefutable. The recent European Environment Agency’s 2025 Report on Assessing the potential to enhance circularity of bio waste validates what our members have been demonstrating for years: insect farming is a powerhouse for circularity. By converting bio-waste into high-quality proteins and fertilizers, our industry directly addresses the core goals of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy—reducing import dependencies, enhancing nutrient recovery, and lowering emissions.
However, potential needs policy to flourish. To unlock the full capacity of the EU insect sector, we are advocating for a multi-faceted approach that mirrors the EEA’s recommendations:
- Regulatory Clarity: Harmonized End-of-Waste criteria and expanded authorizations for insect feeding substrates.
- Market Creation: Inclusion of insect-based ingredients in Green Public Procurement and support mechanisms for bio-based fertilizers.
- De-risking Investment: Leveraging instruments like the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) and an enhanced CBE JU to finance first-of-a-kind facilities.
We are committed to working with the European Commission, CBE JU, and our new partners at BIC to ensure the insect sector continues to thrive.
III. Policy Work
IPIFF participates in critical discussions addressing the sector in the European Parliament
As the European Parliament shapes two pivotal reports, IPIFF is on the ground working tirelessly to ensure the insect sector is recognized as a cornerstone of Europe’s competitive and sustainable future. The message is clear: insects are not just an alternative; they are a solution.
Here is the positive momentum we are driving forward:
Ensuring a Seat at the table for the EU insect Sector in the European Competitiveness Fund
The proposed European Competitiveness Fund (ECF) seeks to strengthen strategic autonomy. In this context, IPIFF has sent a constructive letter to MEPs, urging them to ensure the fund remains inclusive, particularly in light of amendments proposed by the ECR political group to the Agriculture Committee’s Opinion, which would exclude insect production.
IPIFF is now engaging with the rapporteurs of the Industry, Research and Energy Committee, which is leading the European Parliament’s response to the European Commission on this matter, as well as with rapporteurs from other committees delivering opinions on the report, including the Regional Development Committee.
A Win for Livestock Sustainability
This week, the AGRI Committee voted on the future of the EU livestock sector. IPIFF welcomes the forward-thinking amendment from MEP Paulo do Nascimento Cabral calling for a European Protein Diversification Strategy. Insects are ready to partner with farmers to close the nutrient loop and provide local, sustainable feed.
Let Science Lead the Way
Finally, the AGRI Committee heard from Commissioner Várhelyi regarding delays in Novel Food authorizations. Our message remains positive and constructive: Let science lead the way.
IV. IPIFF affiliations & participation in multilateral forums
Strengthening the Voice of the Sector: IPIFF Joins Forces with BIC to Drive Europe’s Bioeconomy
The insect sector is rapidly moving from an innovative concept to an industrial powerhouse, and last week, IPIFF took a decisive step to solidify its place at the heart of Europe’s bioeconomy. We are proud to announce that we have officially submitted our membership application to the Bio-based Industries Consortium (BIC).
By joining BIC, IPIFF aims to deepen our integration into the core network driving the EU Bioeconomy Strategy. This partnership will allow us to better align the insect sector’s needs with the broader bio-based industries, ensuring that insect farming is recognized as a key pillar in the transition toward a competitive and circular Europe.
We look forward to collaborating with BIC and its members to turn ambitious goals into on-the-ground reality. The future is circular, and insects are building it.
V. IPIFF Internal Working Bodies
Shape the Future of the European Insect Sector: Participate in the Critical 2025 IPIFF Industry Survey!
The European insect sector is no longer an emerging concept—we are in the midst of a rapid upscaling and commercial consolidation phase. Our progress is being watched by investors, policymakers, and value chain partners across the globe. To ensure our collective voice is heard clearly and backed by the most compelling evidence, we must speak with one voice, supported by the most current and robust data.
This is why the IPIFF Secretariat is thrilled to announce the relaunch of our flagship Industry Data Survey, now supercharged by the participation of the 50+ member companies of the UK Edible Insect Association. This unprecedented collaboration marks a significant step forward in the representativeness and impact of our advocacy work.
Why Your Participation Matters Now More Than Ever
The information you provide will be the bedrock of our upcoming advocacy toolkit, designed to support your business and the entire sector.
We are updating our core communication materials to reflect the reality of the market in 2025, 2026, and beyond. By contributing, you are directly shaping:
- The Updated Feed Market Factsheet: We need precise figures on the quantities of insect-based feed products commercialized in the EU in 2024 and 2025, along with your forecasts for 2026 and 2030. This data is critical to demonstrate our sector’s growth trajectory and potential to replace conventional proteins.
- The ‘IPIFF 2030’ Brochure (Updated Edition): Originally published in November 2023, this flagship document is being refreshed with your input. We will update key indicators such as:
- Total investments generated by the sector.
- The pace of new production plant construction.
- Job creation figures.
- The main drivers of success in our industry.
This updated brochure, scheduled for publication in May 2025, will be an indispensable tool for your own outreach to investors, commercial prospects, and media.
Your Input is the Final Ingredient
The IPIFF Secretariat is working diligently to consolidate this information to produce the new materials by May 2025. To meet this ambitious deadline, we need your response by the 30th of April.
➡️ PARTICIPATE IN THE SURVEY NOW
United for Compliance: IPIFF Launches Task Force to Address Non-Compliant Insect Products
Following our online meeting on the 10th of March with representatives of the European Commission, we are writing to provide a clear update on the action points discussed and to outline the next crucial steps in safeguarding our industry’s integrity.
The meeting reaffirmed that while the EU regulatory framework for insect-derived products is evolving, significant challenges remain regarding non-compliant products entering the market. To tackle this head-on, IPIFF is officially conveying a dedicated Task Force aimed at coordinating a robust, industry-wide response at both national and EU levels.
The Mission of the Task Force
This initiative brings together IPIFF members who have been compiling evidence of non-compliance with national associations representing insect producers. These associations have direct lines of communication with their respective national authorities, putting us in a strong position to initiate formal procedures. Our goal is clear: to ensure a level playing field by addressing infractions swiftly and effectively.
To achieve this, we have established a clear, three-step procedure based on the action points from our March meeting:
- Step 1: Compile the Evidence (Led by IPIFF Members)
The foundation of our action is solid evidence. We are calling on all members to centralise documented cases of non-compliant insect products. This includes, for example, products that do not meet the requirements of the EU Animal By-Products (ABP) Regulation or the novel food authorisation conditions . - Step 2: Report to National Authorities (Led by National Associations)
With the evidence gathered, our national associations—who maintain direct contact with enforcement bodies in their respective Member States—will formally report these cases. This initial step at the national level is critical for triggering local enforcement actions, such as removing products from the market or imposing sanctions. - Step 3: Escalate to the European Commission (Led by IPIFF)
Should Member States fail to act on these reports, IPIFF will step in to submit formal complaints to the European Commission. This ensures that inaction at one level does not prevent resolution at another, keeping pressure on enforcement bodies across the EU.
VI. IPIFF EVENTS
Register to attend the IPIFF General Assembly on the 8th of June in Turin & the Insects to Feed the World Conference
📅 June 8, 2026, from 14h00 to 17h30, followed by a B2B event between Industry & Academic Members and Joint Dinner.
🏢 Hilton Double Tree Hotel, located within the same Lingotto complex that hosts the IFW conference, in Turin
➡️ Register here by 15th of May to attend the IPIFF Physical General Assembly on the 8th of June in Turin.
Register to attend the IFW from the 9th to the 12th of June in Turin
On behalf of Conference Chair Prof. Laura Gasco we are thrilled to announce that the next edition of IFW – Insects to Feed the World, the world’s leading conference dedicated to the insect farming industry, will take place in Turin, Italy.
📅 June 9–12, 2026
🏢 Lingotto Conference Center
➡️ Register here to attend the Insects to Feed the World Conference. IPIFF Members enjoy an extended early bird fee until the 22nd of May.
IFW is globally recognized as the benchmark event for the insect farming industry — embracing both insects as food and as feed.
The 2026 edition will dive into the latest advances in insect rearing, innovative applications of insect-derived products for human and animal nutrition, and emerging uses in fertilizers and industrial solutions.
Since its launch in the Netherlands in 2014, IFW has been held every four years, bringing together a vibrant and fast-growing international community.
We look forward to welcoming you to Turin!
IFW 2026 | Sponsorship Opportunities
Several companies have already confirmed their support for IFW 2026 in Turin — and the momentum continues to grow.
IFW 2026 will bring together an international scientific community in one of Europe’s most dynamic and innovative environments. There is still the opportunity to position your company among the sponsors of this forward-looking event.
By sponsoring IFW 2026, your company can:
- Strengthen international visibility
- Engage directly with a highly qualified scientific audience
- Align with a project focused on innovation and future development
IPIFF ANNUAL EVENT: MARK YOUR CALENDARS 9TH OF DECEMBER IN THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
We are delighted to announce that planning is now well underway for IPIFF’s flagship Annual Event, which will take place on 9 December in the heart of European decision-making: the European Parliament.
This year’s edition is titled “Insects for Europe: A blueprint for EU leadership in the Circular Bioeconomy – from Farm to Sea.” It promises to be a landmark occasion to showcase the insect farming sector’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable food systems, circularity, and innovation across the EU.
Mark Your Calendars
We kindly ask you to reserve both 8 and 9 December in your calendars:
- 8 December: IPIFF General Assembly Meeting (location and details to follow).
- 9 December: IPIFF Annual Event at the European Parliament.
Behind the Scenes
Our team is working tirelessly to deliver a high-level and seamless event. We are pleased to share that speakers are already confirmed, and we are collaborating with an experienced EU-level magazine renowned for organising events within the European Parliament since the 1970s.
Their expertise, combined with dedicated subcontracted support, ensures a professional and engaging experience for all attendees. We are also working closely with the cabinet of our event host, Member of the European Parliament Paulo Nascimento Cabral.
Stay Tuned
Further details—including the full programme, registration information, sponsorship opportunities and logistical notes—will follow in the coming weeks. We look forward to gathering with you in Brussels for what promises to be an inspiring and impactful moment for our sector.
🔍 Inside the Next Edition
I. Follow-up from the IPIFF Task Force on Communication
We’ll share the key outcomes from our latest task force meeting, where we refined our collective narrative. Discover how we are aligning our messaging to better showcase the sector’s role in sustainable food systems.
II. Round of Consultations with IPIFF Academic Members
Learn how we are bridging science and policy. This section highlights the outcomes of our recent “Shrine Research” consultations, exploring how academic insights are shaping our policy and communication activities.
III. & IV. Strategic Engagements: IPIFF meets with FEDIAF & EABA
Get an exclusive look behind the scenes of our recent high-level meetings. From pet food innovation (FEDIAF) to the broader bio-based economy (EABA), we’ll detail how IPIFF is strengthening ties with key value chain partners.
V. IPIFF Position Paper on Coastal Communities
The blue economy is in focus. We will unveil our latest position paper, arguing for the crucial role of insect protein in supporting resilient and sustainable coastal communities.
VI. Advancing Aquaculture: Vision 2040
A major policy update! We will review the IPIFF Position Paper and the evidence submitted for the EU Commission’s Vision for Aquaculture 2040. Plus, find out the latest on our formal request for a new meeting with the Commissioner for Fisheries and Ocean.
VII. Publication of the IPIFF LCA Concept Note
We are putting data behind our mission. We’ll walk you through the newly published Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Concept Note—a critical tool for substantiating the environmental credentials of insect production.
VIII. Other Policy Initiatives
A roundup of the latest regulatory and policy developments we are tracking on your behalf. Stay informed on the moving pieces that impact your business.
