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True news - The journalist who made the decision: S25_gr08
European insect protein producers are shifting from aquaculture to pet food production due to restrictive EU regulations, according to a report published by POLITICO in May 2025. The article highlights how companies like Invers face bureaucratic barriers that prevent sustainable innovation. Sébastien Crépieux, CEO of Invers, stated that current EU rules make it difficult to use common organic waste to feed insects — a practice that would improve sustainability and reduce costs. As a result, the company abandoned its initial goal of supplying fish farms and now produces insect-based food for pets. The article aligns with official EU regulations, including Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 on novel foods and Regulation (EU) 2021/1372 on animal protein use. These laws limit the types of feed allowed for insect farming, prioritizing safety but unintentionally hampering environmental progress. Industry groups such as IPIFF (International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed) have criticized the slow adaptation of rules. Experts argue that unless the legislation evolves, the EU will fall behind on its sustainability goals despite growing demand for alternative proteins. The pet food market currently absorbs over half of Europe’s insect protein production, offering a more stable regulatory path. However, producers remain hopeful that broader food system reforms will allow insects to contribute more meaningfully to the circular economy. Fact-checking and Source Cross-verification: The claims made in the article align with external sources, such as:- European Commission - Novel Food Authorisations
- Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 regarding novel food procedures
- Regulation (EU) 2021/1372 on the use of processed animal proteins in feed
- IPIFF.org: Guides and fact sheets on insect use in EU food/feed legislation
- Livinfarms.com: Practical overview of feed rules
