Michelmores is delighted to support the Insects as Food and Feed (IAFF) Conference.
The event, now in its sixth year, is a collaborative project between the Royal Entomological Society, ADAS (agricultural and environmental consultants), and Michelmores. The conference promotes the use of insects as a sustainable alternative source of protein for both animals and people.
This year’s conference will take place on 26 and 27 April within the inspiring surrounds of London’s Natural History Museum as well as online. Delegates will hear from 14 experts discussing topics including the edible insect sector; industrial-scale production of insects including the management of disease and the use of probiotics; the use of frass as fertilizer; post-Brexit considerations; recycling food waste; and welfare concerns.
Michelmores’ agricultural Partner, Rachel O’Connor, will be providing delegates with an update on the UK legislation surrounding the use of insect protein in both the food and feed markets. Rachel is a leading authority on the regulations governing the use of insect protein in animal feed and led the Michelmores team appointed to advise on WWF’s sector report.
Rachel joins this year’s keynote speaker, Arnold van Huis, Emeritus professor at the Laboratory of Entomology in the Netherlands, who will be speaking about ‘Edible insects: progress and prospects’.
Of the conference, Rachel said:
Securing a sustainable and nutritious source of protein for both humans and farmed animals is an absolute priority in tackling the climate and biodiversity crises and in addressing issues of food security. Insects have a crucial role to play in the food chain and this industry is all about how we harness that at scale. This conference brings together experts, producers and investors from across the food and agriculture sectors to work together in moving the industry forward.
Simon Ward, CEO, Royal Entomological Society said:
The research and practice of using insects as food and feed is an important area of focus for the Royal Entomological Society. This conference will unite experts from around the world to share cutting edge research and best practice on farming insects to produce animal protein in evermore environmentally sustainable ways.
