Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest food companies, has announced a new partnership with Protix, a Dutch company specializing in insect-based protein ingredients. Through a direct equity investment, Tyson will acquire a minority stake in Protix, with the goal of bringing insect ingredient production to the United States.

The partnership between Tyson Foods and Protix aims to support the growth of the emerging insect ingredient industry and expand the use of insect ingredient solutions in the global food system. By combining Tyson Foods’ global scale and experience with Protix’s technology and market leadership, the companies hope to meet the current market demand for sustainable proteins and lipids.

Tyson Foods plans to utilize this joint venture to expand insect ingredient facilities both globally and in the United States. Their focus is on incorporating insect protein into pet food, aquaculture, and livestock industries. This move aligns with Tyson Foods’ commitment to building a more sustainable food system for the future.

According to Protix, insects provide low-footprint proteins and other nutrients that can be processed into more sustainable feed and food. Their products are meant to be environmentally friendly alternatives to existing animal feed and foods and are highly nutritious.

While Tyson Foods has not indicated any immediate plans to use insect protein in food marketed for human consumption, experts believe that utilizing insects as “mini bioreactors” is a sustainable and cost-effective solution. Insects can consume animal waste and transform it into valuable protein sources with minimal energy input.

This partnership represents a significant milestone for Protix and accelerates their ambition to grow through international collaboration. Both Tyson Foods and Protix are optimistic about the potential of insect-based protein ingredients in addressing environmental sustainability and meeting the growing world population’s food needs.

Overall, this joint venture underscores Tyson Foods’ commitment to innovation and sustainable practices while providing more efficient and nutritious food solutions for a changing world. By exploring alternative protein sources and incorporating insect ingredients, Tyson Foods and Protix are paving the way for a more sustainable future in the food industry.