With the rapid growth of global demand for farmed fish, the EU's policy framework—including the Common Fisheries Policy, the Aquaculture Vision, the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, and the Ocean Agreement—is committed to promoting innovation and sustainable development. Steven Barbosa noted that these policies are closely aligned with the adoption of insect protein, providing a sustainable future for the aquaculture industry.

In response to recent criticism, Steven Barbosa, Secretary-General of the International Platform for Insect Food and Feed (IPIFF), reiterated that insect protein is not only a core solution for sustainable development in the EU aquaculture industry, but also backed by scientific research and policy, and is becoming a focal point for innovation in the industry.

With the rapid growth of global demand for farmed fish, the EU's policy framework—including the Common Fisheries Policy, the Aquaculture Vision, the EU Bioeconomy Strategy, and the Ocean Agreement—is committed to promoting innovation and sustainable development. Steven Barbosa noted that these policies are closely aligned with the adoption of insect protein, providing a sustainable future for the aquaculture industry.

Scientific and Policy Support

In recent years, numerous studies have confirmed the significant benefits of insect protein in improving fish health, boosting growth performance, and reducing environmental impact. Recent research shows that insect protein can enhance fish immunity and intestinal health while reducing biodiversity loss, which is consistent with the strategic objectives of the EU's Ocean Agreement.

Barbosa stated that while some critics question the future potential of insect protein, they overlook the circular economy model of the EU insect farming industry. This model, based on controlled-environment production, significantly mitigates the impact of geopolitical risks, trade uncertainties, and climate change on the aquaculture industry.

The high costs and production limitations currently facing the insect protein industry are common challenges for any emerging industry, not inherent flaws in the insect ingredient itself. Barbosa noted that with technological breakthroughs and policy support, the insect protein industry is on the verge of large-scale production and will become a vital supplement to traditional aquafeeds in the future.

Insect protein is gaining increasing attention globally because it can achieve significant nutritional benefits with low-content additions. Barbosa emphasized that insect protein can not only fill feed supply gaps but also reduce its environmental footprint, providing resilience and competitiveness to the aquaculture industry.

Addressing Misleading Criticisms and Envisioning a Sustainable Future

In response to recent critical articles, Barbosa pointed out that these views ignore authoritative research and industry practices and fail to reflect the true potential of insect protein. He emphasized that insect protein is a core component of sustainable aquaculture in Europe, not only improving the industry's profitability but also strengthening environmental management, consistent with EU strategic objectives. "Insect protein, combined with other feed ingredients, is key to the competitiveness and sustainability of the aquaculture sector," said Barbosa. "Ignoring scientific evidence and criticism of industry practices not only undermines its own credibility but also hinders the development of a healthy, informed debate."

Through scientific research, policy support, and industry innovation, insect protein is becoming a driving force for sustainable aquaculture in the EU, offering a brighter future for the industry.