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BioMar and Innovafeed to introduce insect protein to Ecuador’s shrimp feed industry

Responsible Seafood Advocate

BioMar, Innovafeed and Auchan launch tripartite initiative in Ecuador to integrate insect protein into commercial shrimp feed

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BioMar, Innovafeed and Auchan have announced the large-scale integration of insect protein into commercial shrimp feed in Ecuador. Photo by Daniela Elena Tentis.

BioMar, Innovafeed and Auchan have announced the large-scale integration of insect protein into commercial shrimp feed in Ecuador – a step toward establishing insect meal as a functional ingredient in aquaculture.

Research by BioMar found that insect meal, which contains nutrients such as antimicrobial peptides, delivered a measurable benefit in shrimp feeds. The result allows insect meal to replace an ingredient already used in commercial formulations, giving it a defined entry point in the market.

“Working together with Auchan and Innovafeed, we have established a viable commercial model for insect meal,” said Henrik Aarestrup, VP LATAM, Shrimp & Hatchery at BioMar Group. “It was important to design a scalable model that leveraged the unique functional benefits of black soldier fly in shrimp diets. Any shrimp farmer purchasing BioMar feeds from Ecuador can leverage this commercial opportunity.”

As part of the initiative, Auchan, one of Europe’s largest retailers, will integrate shrimp raised on the new insect-based feed into its sourcing strategy and product range.

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“We are committed to responsible sourcing and see this partnership as a tangible step toward better food for our customers and the planet,” said Laurent Francony, Group CSR executive director at Auchan Retail. “Supporting more sustainable aquaculture practices through our shrimp supply chains is perfectly aligned with our long-term vision.”

The tripartite agreement marks a “significant leap” in scaling insect-based solutions in aquaculture, intending to reduce reliance on wild-caught fish and conventional agricultural resources while maintaining sustainability standards.

“This partnership is a defining moment not just for Innovafeed, but for the entire insect and aquaculture industries,” said Clément Ray, CEO and co-founder of Innovafeed and Elizaveta Le Floch, Chief Business Officer. “By combining our technology with BioMar’s aquafeed expertise and Auchan’s retail leadership, we’re proving that sustainable shrimp farming can be scaled, economically viable and consumer-ready.”

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insect meal Ecuador alternative feed ingredients BioMar alternative feeds insect proteins Innovafeed Auchan

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