Global Insect Products as Feed Market Size By Type (Fly Larvae, Meal Worms), By Application (Aquaculture, Pet Food), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 to 2032

Report Id: 36090 | Published Date: Jun 2023 | No. of Pages: | Base Year for Estimate: Jun 2023 | Format:


The Global Insect Products as Feed Market was valued at USD 1.9 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 6.5 billion by 2031, registering a CAGR of 16.3% during the forecast period (2023-2031). The market growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and high-protein feed solutions, rising awareness of alternative feed sources, and environmental benefits associated with insect farming.

Insect-based feed products, including mealworms, black soldier fly larvae, and crickets, are gaining traction as a viable alternative to traditional soybean and fishmeal-based feeds due to their high protein content, improved digestibility, and lower ecological footprint. The growing livestock, aquaculture, and pet food industries are further accelerating the market expansion.

Drivers:

1. Growing Demand for Sustainable Feed Solutions

The increasing awareness of sustainability in animal nutrition is driving the demand for insect-based feed, as it provides an eco-friendly alternative to conventional protein sources like fishmeal and soy.

2. Rising Adoption in Aquaculture and Livestock Industries

The global aquaculture industry is expanding rapidly, and insect-based feeds are proving to be a nutritionally rich alternative for fish and shrimp farming, reducing dependence on overexploited fishmeal sources.

3. High Nutritional Value of Insect-Based Feed

Insects are rich in essential amino acids, fatty acids, and micronutrients, making them an excellent choice for improving the growth rate and health of livestock and pets.

Restraints:

1. High Production Costs

The cost of scaling up insect farming and processing technology remains high, affecting overall market adoption, especially in developing regions.

2. Lack of Regulatory Framework

While insect-based feed is gaining acceptance, regulatory constraints and approval processes in certain regions hinder its widespread adoption in livestock and aquaculture industries.

Opportunities:

1. Expansion in Emerging Markets

Developing regions in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are witnessing a surge in livestock and aquaculture production, creating significant growth opportunities for insect-based feed manufacturers.

2. Advancements in Processing Technologies

Innovations in automated farming techniques, fermentation, and nutrient enrichment are expected to lower production costs and enhance product quality, boosting market penetration.

3. Growing Interest in Pet Food Applications

The pet food industry is increasingly adopting insect-based protein as a highly digestible and hypoallergenic ingredient, offering significant potential for market growth.

Market by Product Type Insights:

Based on product type, the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae meal segment dominated the market in 2023, holding over 40% of the total revenue. BSF larvae are widely used due to their high protein and fat content, along with a low environmental footprint. The mealworm segment is also gaining traction, particularly in pet food and poultry feed applications.

Market by End-use Insights:

By end-use, the aquaculture industry emerged as the largest consumer of insect-based feed in 2023, accounting for over 45% of the market share. Fish and shrimp farming industries are increasingly integrating insect meal as an alternative to conventional fishmeal to reduce costs and environmental impact. The poultry segment is also witnessing growing adoption due to the high digestibility and nutritional benefits of insect-derived proteins.

Market by Regional Insights:

1. North America

North America led the market in 2023, driven by the strong presence of insect farming startups, increasing awareness of sustainable feed solutions, and favorable government initiatives supporting alternative protein sources.

2. Europe

Europe is a key player in the global market, with countries like France, the Netherlands, and Germany leading in insect farming and research. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has already approved certain insect species for use in animal feed, boosting market demand.

3. Asia-Pacific (Fastest Growing Market)

Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate due to rising livestock production, increasing demand for aquaculture feed, and favorable government policies supporting sustainable agriculture.

Competitive Scenario:

Key players in the Global Insect Products as Feed Market include:

Ynsect

Protix

InnovaFeed

Enterra Feed Corporation

AgriProtein

Hexafly

Nutrition Technologies

Entobel

Beta Hatch

These companies are expanding their production capacities, forming strategic partnerships, and investing in R&D to improve product quality and cost-efficiency.

Scope of Work – Global Insect Products as Feed Market

Report Metric

Details

Market Size (2023)

USD 1.9 billion

Projected Market Size (2031)

USD 6.5 billion

CAGR (2023-2031)

16.3%

Largest Market Segment (By Product Type)

Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Larvae Meal

Largest Market Segment (By End-Use)

Aquaculture

Leading Region

North America

Fastest Growing Region

Asia-Pacific

Key Players

Ynsect, Protix, InnovaFeed, AgriProtein, Enterra Feed, Hexafly, Entobel

Key Market Drivers

Sustainability, Rising Aquaculture Feed Demand, Nutritional Benefits

Key Market Restraints

High Production Costs, Regulatory Challenges

Market Opportunities

Emerging Markets, Technological Advancements, Pet Food Applications

Key Market Developments:

2023: Protix partnered with a leading European aquaculture firm to supply high-protein BSF meal for fish farming, reducing reliance on fishmeal.

2024: Ynsect expanded its production facility in the U.S., increasing supply for the poultry and pet food industries.

2025: Enterra Feed Corporation introduced an innovative fermented insect meal product, enhancing digestibility and nutrient absorption in livestock feed.

FAQs:

1. What is the current market size of the Global Insect Products as Feed Market?

The Global Insect Products as Feed Market was valued at USD 1.9 billion in 2023.

2. What is the major growth driver of the Global Insect Products as Feed Market?

The market is primarily driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and high-protein feed solutions, especially in aquaculture and livestock industries.

3. Which is the largest region during the forecast period in the Global Insect Products as Feed Market?

North America holds the largest market share, while Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest rate.

4. Which segment accounted for the largest market share in the Global Insect Products as Feed Market?

The Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae meal segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023.

5. Who are the key market players in the Global Insect Products as Feed Market?

Key market players include Ynsect, Protix, InnovaFeed, Enterra Feed Corporation, AgriProtein, Hexafly, and Entobel.

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