Bühler and NRGene Canada, a subsidiary of NRGene Technologies, recently launched the North American Insect Center (NAIC). The inauguration event, held at NRGene Canada's facility in Saskatoon, marks a significant leap forward in the production and optimization of insect protein in North America.
The NAIC is designed as a research and demonstration center where customers can evaluate the performance of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) varieties tailored to their specific byproduct streams. The cutting-edge facility is also dedicated to supporting investors in evaluating the economic viability of larger plants before committing to a full-scale investment. This innovative approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions, ensuring optimal efficiency and sustainability in protein production.
The launch event featured a tour of the cutting-edge lab, showcasing the advanced capabilities of the NAIC. Attendees included Gil Ronen, CEO and co-founder of NRGene, Andreas Baumann, head of Market Segment Insect Technology at Bühler, and Jeremy Harrison, Minister of Trade and Export Development.
Equipped with Bühler’s advanced Trial Rearing Unit (TRU), the NAIC simulates industrial conditions to optimize the growth of BSF larvae. NRGene’s expertise in genomics and phenotyping enables the development of high-performing BSF strains, driving significant advancements in the field. Initial trials have already shown remarkable results, highlighting the synergy between cutting-edge technology and genetic innovation. The center can also customize solutions for different kinds of waste, further enhancing its versatility and sustainability impact.
The NAIC is set to become a hub for industry players, offering customer trials, workshops, training sessions, and seminars to disseminate best practices in insect protein production. This initiative not only addresses the urgent need for sustainable protein sources but also fosters a circular economy by utilizing organic waste effectively. "The NAIC is a testament to the power of combining genetic innovation with technological advancement," said Ronen. "The promising results from our trials are just the beginning. This center allows our customers to explore and optimize every aspect of insect protein production, promoting a more efficient and sustainable industry."
"Combining NRGene’s genomic data tools and our advanced technologies will allow companies to leverage the deep industry and process knowledge of both companies to produce BSF larvae more efficiently and at lower costs. This will enable insect producers to bring bigger product volumes at consistent quality to the market fostering a broader adoption of this sustainable protein source in the animal feed sector,” said Baumann.
“The development of insect proteins as a sustainable protein source presents significant business opportunities,” stated Johannes Wick, CEO of Bühler’s Grains & Food business. “This new facility will open the market up for start-ups and established businesses alike, bringing together the science, tools, technologies, and knowledge needed to further optimize the process to produce protein-rich insect larvae.”
Located in Saskatoon, a region renowned for its agricultural by-products, the NAIC is ideally positioned to lead the way in transforming waste into protein. This unique combination of technologies promises to set new standards in the industry.
