Salamanca to Host WorldS Largest Insect Farm: A Leap Towards Lasting Food Production
Salamanca, spain – Tebrio, a pioneering biotechnology company specializing in insect production and transformation, has taken a giant leap towards a more sustainable future with the groundbreaking ceremony for the world’s largest insect farm. Located in the strategic dry port of Salamanca, this ambitious project promises to revolutionize the food industry while minimizing environmental impact.
The new facility, set to be operational by 2028, will span a massive 90,000 square meters and will be built in six phases, five dedicated to breeding and one for processing.Upon completion, it will boast an annual production capacity of over 100,000 tons of high-quality proteins and lipids, primarily derived from the black soldier fly (Tenebrio molitor). These valuable resources will be utilized in the production of animal feed,100% organic biofertilizers,and chitosan,a versatile compound with applications in pharmaceuticals,cosmetics,and bioplastics.
This groundbreaking project is expected to create 150 direct jobs and 1,350 indirect jobs, significantly boosting the local and regional economy. Furthermore, Tebrio’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its plans to power the facility with renewable energy sources, tripling its current energy self-sufficiency thru the installation of solar panels.
Tebrio’s journey began ten years ago in Salamanca, fueled by the vision of its founders who started raising mealworms in their own homes. The company’s innovative approach to insect farming offers a compelling solution to the growing global demand for sustainable protein sources.
The breeding and processing of black soldier flies are environmentally kind processes,as they do not emit methane,ammonia,or other harmful compounds,making them a truly sustainable option to traditional livestock farming. Tebrio’s commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint extends to the construction phase, where waste materials will be repurposed as building materials for the facility.
With this ambitious project, Tebrio aims to achieve a “negative carbon footprint,” setting a new standard for industrial sustainability. The company’s dedication to innovation and environmental obligation positions it as a leader in the burgeoning field of insect farming, paving the way for a more sustainable future for food production.
Can Insects Be the Future of Food? We Chat With an Expert
TIME.news: Tebrio is opening the world’s largest insect farm in Salamanca,Spain. How groundbreaking is this advancement for the food industry and the habitat?
Expert: This is a truly exciting development! Tebrio’s enterprising project marks a notable milestone in the adoption of insect protein as a lasting food source. The scale of the facility,with its projected output of over 100,000 tons of protein and lipids annually,indicates a serious commitment to tackling the increasing demand for protein in a way that minimizes environmental impact.
TIME.news: Can you elaborate on the environmental benefits of insect farming compared to customary livestock farming?
Expert: Insects like the black soldier fly, which Tebrio utilizes, are incredibly efficient at converting organic waste into high-quality protein. This process generates significantly less methane, ammonia, and other harmful greenhouse gases compared to conventional livestock farming.
Adding to this, insects require less land and water, and their feed can be sourced from readily available and often waste-based materials. Tebrio’s commitment to renewable energy sources further strengthens its position as a leader in sustainable food production.
TIME.news: beyond feed, what other applications will the protein and lipids produced by Tebrio have?
Expert:Tebrio’s insect-derived products offer diverse applications across various industries. Apart from animal feed, the high-quality protein and lipids will be used to manufacture 100% organic biofertilizers, promoting sustainable agriculture practices. chitosan, a versatile compound extracted from insect exoskeletons, finds use in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and even bioplastics, contributing to a circular economy.
TIME.news: What are the economic benefits of this project for the Salamanca region?
Expert: Tebrio’s project presents a massive prospect for economic growth in Salamanca. The construction phase itself will generate numerous jobs, and the operational phase is expected to create 150 direct jobs and 1,350 indirect jobs, boosting the local economy.
The potential for innovation and research in the field of insect farming will also attract further investment and talent to the region, creating a ripple effect of positive economic impact.
TIME.news: What advice would you offer to readers interested in learning more about this field or exploring sustainable food solutions?
Expert: I encourage everyone to delve deeper into the world of entomophagy—the practice of eating insects! There are many resources available online and in libraries.
Support companies like Tebrio, who are leading the way in responsible insect farming, and be open-minded about trying insect-based products. Remember,embracing sustainable food solutions is crucial for ensuring a healthy and secure future for generations to come.
