Earlier we introduced the research team working within the IPPEC project on scaling up insect protein production. Recently, the first large-scale rearing trial with black soldier fly larvae has been carried out within this project. While much of the existing knowledge is based on laboratory research, this trial focused specifically on practical implementation under realistic conditions.
During the trial, black soldier fly larvae were reared on a large practical scale using different organic residual streams. In addition to larval growth, the focus was on the entire process: from the supply and processing of residual streams to climate control, monitoring, and data collection. At this scale, several important practical challenges became apparent.
The trial demonstrated that scaling up insect rearing on residual streams requires more than biological knowledge alone. Logistics, process control, and practical feasibility play an equally important role in developing a stable and reproducible system. These first experiences therefore provide valuable insights for future trials within IPPEC and contribute to the further development of large-scale insect protein production in the Netherlands.
In a forthcoming article, we will take a closer look at the role of residual streams in insect farming and the factors that determine whether a residual stream is actually suitable as a feedstock.
