As the demand for sustainable protein sources grows, NRGene Canada is leading the way in advancing Black Soldier Fly (BSF) genetics through AI-driven breeding and genomics. A subsidiary of NRGene Technologies, the company is leveraging its expertise to optimize BSF strains for large-scale industrial production, enhancing their efficiency in organic waste conversion and protein yield. Over the past 15 years, the company has completed over 350 genomic projects with over 150 commercial customers in dozens of plant and animal species.
NRGene Canada entered the insect farming and genomics sector, particularly focusing on the Black Soldier Fly (BSF), to address the growing demand for sustainable protein sources and contribute to a circular economy by efficiently converting organic waste into valuable resources.
“Recognizing the BSF’s potential in tackling these challenges, we saw a strong alignment with our mission to enhance food security and sustainability,” Ben Gradus, Director of Product, BSF, at NRGene Canada, told Aquafeed.com in an interview. “Additionally, our proven track record in improving traits across various species positioned us well to navigate the complexities of BSF reproduction and optimization. Unlike traditional livestock such as cattle and poultry, the BSF has never been domesticated or optimized for modern agricultural use. This gap presented a unique opportunity to apply our expertise in AI-driven genomics and trait improvement to an emerging and high-impact field. By leveraging our genomic capabilities alongside the increasing demand for sustainable protein, NRGene Canada has positioned itself at the forefront of a growing sector in agriculture and food production.”
NRGene Canada utilizes NRGene Technologies' tools and capabilities to establish and grow within the BSF sector. The company is pioneering the development of elite BSF strains tailored for large-scale industrial production. By applying its expertise in genomics and AI breeding, it accelerates genetic improvement, optimizing BSF for more efficient organic waste conversion and high-quality protein production. Through its partnership with Bühler in the newly established North American Insect Center (NAIC), NRGene Canada contributes to advancing sustainable insect-based solutions for the global feed industry.
Advancing genomics and selection processes for insects
The genomics and selection processes for insect strains, particularly the BSF, have significantly advanced in recent years, moving from theoretical potential to practical applications. These developments have led to significant improvements in growth rates, protein yield, and overall production efficiency.
In 2024, NRGene Canada launched a BSF genotyping platform, a new natural breeding program for heat tolerance, and introduced its first elite variety which demonstrated a 30% increase in body weight compared to the industry standard.
“This is just the beginning—continued innovations in genetic selection, AI-based models, and advanced breeding techniques, have the potential to revolutionize the insect farming industry,” Gradus said.
The future of insect farming, particularly BSF, depends on advancements in selective breeding using genomics. Unlike other farm animals, BSF has not undergone genetic optimization through domestication and selective breeding. Currently, they are grown on food and agricultural waste, which varies in nutritional composition and environmental values.
“This suboptimal genetic profile limits productivity and increases feed costs, partly due to an inefficient feed conversion rate (FCR). By applying genomics, we can enhance BSF strains to improve growth rates, nutrient composition, and overall efficiency—making insect farming an even more viable solution for waste management, transforming organic byproducts into valuable protein, and contributing to a more sustainable future,” Gradus said.
The use of animal-based byproducts as a feed source
NRGene Canada recently entered into a partnership with Ile-a-la-Crosse Fish Company to test animal-based products as feedstock.
“Animal byproducts provide a nutritionally rich and highly effective foundation for BSF feed formulations. Unlike agricultural waste streams, which often have lower nutritional value and result in a less efficient feed conversion ratio (FCR) by the BSF larvae, animal byproducts offer a more balanced and concentrated nutrient profile. Additionally, utilizing animal byproducts that have no alternative use ensures efficient bioconversion, maximizing both sustainability and resource utilization,” Gradus explained.
The nutritional composition of insect meal varies significantly based on the feedstock used in farming. “Animal byproduct-based feed formulations, like those provided by Ile-a-la-Crosse Fish Company, tend to yield higher protein levels, making them a valuable alternative to traditional protein sources,” said Gradus.
The regulatory landscape for using animal byproducts as feedstock in insect farming varies significantly between Europe and other global markets. In the EU, strict regulations prohibit certain animal byproducts—such as manure, catering waste, and unprocessed former foodstuffs containing meat or fish—from being used as feed for farmed insects intended for food or feed.
Regulations outside the EU, are generally less restrictive, allowing for a broader range of feedstock options. However, policies differ by region, and many countries are still developing their frameworks for insect farming and feed production.
But not only regulations may be a constraint in using animal-based byproducts. The successful adoption of insect-based animal feed relies heavily on acceptance from consumers, farmers, and industry stakeholders.
“Insect-based feed has been shown to support animal health and sustainability, but overcoming initial hesitation requires education, transparency, and strategic product positioning. By highlighting safety, regulatory compliance, and performance advantages, we can drive wider acceptance and market adoption,” Gradus said.
The future
The Black Soldier Fly industry is set for remarkable growth, with production expected to hit 250,000 metric tons of dried insects by 2030—a scale requiring billions of larvae in continuous production. While the potential is enormous, scaling efficiently remains a challenge. “Advancements in genetics, AI-driven breeding, and optimized farming practices will be critical in unlocking the full potential of BSF as a sustainable protein source. NRGene Canada is at the forefront of these innovations, helping to shape the future of the industry,” Gradus said.
"The Black Soldier Fly is an incredible biological resource, and we’re just beginning to unlock its full potential. With advanced genomics and AI, we can accelerate its evolution for industrial use, turning waste into high-value protein more efficiently than ever. It’s exciting to be at the forefront of this transformation and to play a role in shaping the future of sustainable nutrition,” Gradus concluded.
