
The UK Edible Insect Association (UKEIA) is launching an Expression of Interest (EOI) opportunity for researchers and academics interested in collaborating with businesses on ground-breaking research into farmed insect protein.
As demand for sustainable and alternative protein sources spurs the development of the farmed insect protein industry in the UK - a potential solution to address global food security issues, reduce environmental impact, and provide a rich source of nutrients - it is critical that professional practices and appropriate regulation develop at the same time.
With current regulations and research surrounding the safety of insect production and consumption still in their infancy - especially compared to traditional protein sources - UKIEA is launching this EOI to ensure the industry proactively addresses food safety challenges. From pathogen control to contamination risks, to the use of different substrates and methods to reduce production costs and minimise environmental impact, there are countless opportunities when it comes to the establishment of standardised production processes with regards to farmed insect protein.
As a member of the newly formed National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre, and the only trade association in the UK representing the farmed insect protein sector, UKEIA is keen that research is carried out that allows UK businesses and farms to deliver safe, high quality products into the market on a commercially viable basis, while also meeting the needs of Regulators, consumers and industry.
UKEIA Managing Director Dr Nick Rousseau, said: “Projects will need to be designed to facilitate the development of research proposals that directly address these challenges and ensure the long-term viability of insect-based foods in the domestic and global market.
“We believe that collaboration is key to advancing knowledge and driving innovation in farmed insect protein. Through this EOI, we hope to foster collaboration between academic experts, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to develop solutions to food safety challenges.”
The EOI aims to gather proposals from students looking to undertake Master of Science or Doctor of Philosophy projects, longitudinal or implementation studies, or multi-year projects within a group. UKEIA is also keen to hear from those who might already have existing partnerships in place, or from those who can envisage collaborations that might be beneficial to the farmed insect protein sector.
Topics of particular interest to the sector were ascertained in 2023, thanks to funding from the Food Safety Research Network (FSRN), which also led to the development of an extensive directory of academic and specialist partners, with full details available to UKEIA members.
Interested parties are invited to submit their expressions of interest by 31 December 2024 and submissions for the EOI will be reviewed by an expert panel, made up of academics and members of the farmed insect protein business community.
Selected participants will be invited to discuss potential collaboration opportunities in more detail before the end of 2024, with a full announcement of final ideas being announced at the UKEIA Nest 1.0 Conference, date and venue to be confirmed.
For more information about the EOI and to access the full document, please visit http://www.ukeia.co.uk/expression-of-interest.
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