Dutch King Willem-Alexander opens the world’s largest insect farm in the world at Protix

His Majesty King Willem-Alexander officially opened the world’s largest insect farm at Protix in Bergen op Zoom, the Netherlands. Protix produces insects for sustainable proteins by using plant waste from the environment as feed for insects.

The proteins and other nutrients of insects are very nutritious and can be fed to animals, especially fish and chickens. In this way, non-sustainable sources, such as fishmeal and soy, can be replaced by a sustainable alternative.

During his visit to Protix, King Willem-Alexander met various experts, entrepreneurs and CEOs from the agri-food industry. The programme was moderated by Peter Bakker, President and CEO of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Emphasis was laid on the transition of the food system to a future in which people can continue to enjoy good food with an ever-lower impact on the environment. King Willem- Alexander was accompanied by Minister Carola Schouten of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality. The minister shared her view on the market and explained why insects are part of her vision for the future of our food system.

Protix is the leading insect company in circular, natural and sustainable proteins from insects. Their vision is a food system in balance with nature. Insects are part of the solution to the protein crisis while building a natural and circular food system with minimised food waste. The black soldier fly (hermetia illucens) is a key player in bringing our vision to life: their larvae provide us with a unique source of protein for food and feed. They are the market leader when it comes to high quality and scalable insect ingredients production. What makes this possible are the 100+ unique individuals within the company, who are engaged and empowered to make a difference. Their belief in the power of the insect inspires the passion and creativity that makes us successful.