The use of insects in animal feed has emerged as a promising solution in the agricultural and food sectors. A recent expert article prepared for the Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show 2026, titled “Inhouse Farming: Insects in feed – utilisation, suitability and perspectives”, highlights the significant potential of insects in animal nutrition due to their high nutrient content and versatile applications. At the same time, it outlines the regulatory framework and assesses the current state of development in Europe. The topic will be part of the technical program of the Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show 2026, taking place from 10 to 13 November 2026 as part of EuroTier 2026 in Hanover, Germany.
The article makes clear that insect larvae — particularly those of the black soldier fly — represent an interesting source of protein. The larvae can be produced efficiently and used in various forms in animal feed. In addition to their nutritional suitability, factors such as processing, quality assurance and integration into existing feed concepts play an important role. The article also emphasises that further market development will largely depend on economic factors, regulatory requirements and the scalability of production.
Alternative protein source with high nutrient density
Insects offer a wide range of valuable components, including high-quality proteins as well as other nutritionally relevant substances. This makes them well suited as a supplement or alternative to established protein sources in animal nutrition. Various processing forms are in focus — from whole larvae to processed protein fractions — which can be flexibly used depending on species and application. Alongside nutrient composition, increasing attention is being paid to process quality, product safety and standardisation.
Building block for more resilient value chains
Insects can also be produced in controlled, closed systems and enable the targeted use of organic residual materials. This opens up new approaches for more efficient, circular value chains.
At the same time, further development depends strongly on overarching framework conditions, including regulatory requirements, economic scalability and the establishment of standardised production and processing processes. Within this context, new perspectives are emerging for the sustainable development of animal nutrition.
Perspectives for the food and feed industry
Insects are increasingly gaining importance as an ingredient in food applications as well. Through a series of expert presentations on the Expert Stage, the Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show 2026 will cover the full spectrum: from market developments in Europe and worldwide to processing and product development, as well as requirements related to quality, food safety and consumer acceptance — complemented by application areas such as pet food. The event thus offers a comprehensive overview of insects as a resource for both feed and food markets.
Conclusion: a key technology for transforming agriculture and food systems
Insect-based feed solutions exemplify the transformation of agricultural and food systems. They combine sustainability, innovation and economic potential. The Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show 2026 will showcase these developments and foster interdisciplinary dialogue on the future of protein supply.
Inhouse Farming as a driver of new production systems
Industrial insect production is closely linked to innovative Inhouse Farming approaches, including controlled production systems, automated processes and integrated circular solutions that make efficient use of by-products while generating new raw materials.
The Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show 2026 builds on this concept: as part of EuroTier 2026, it provides an international platform for technologies, innovations and business models across the entire value chain — from feed production to food.
Platform for innovation and knowledge transfer
EuroTier is the world’s leading trade fair for professional livestock farming and management. It brings together international industry professionals and showcases forward-looking solutions for sustainable and productive agriculture – under the guiding theme “Intelligence in Animal Farming” in 2026. With the Inhouse Farming – Feed & Food Show, DLG is expanding this portfolio to include future-oriented topics such as insect production, alternative proteins, aquaculture and controlled agricultural systems. The platform addresses companies, start-ups, research institutions and agricultural businesses alike.
Further information:
https://www.inhouse-farming.com/de/
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