Entobel and Vinh Hoan collaborate to boost insect protein in pangasius production

VIETNAM- Entobel, a leading insect ingredient producer, and Vinh Hoan, the world’s largest pangasius fish producer, have strengthened their partnership to advance sustainable aquaculture practices. 

This strategic collaboration aims to elevate the integration of insect protein in pangasius feed, marking a significant milestone in the quest for environmentally friendly aquafeed solutions.

Feed One, a subsidiary of Vinh Hoan, has inked an offtake agreement with Entobel to procure a substantial volume of insect protein from Entobel’s cutting-edge Vung Tau facility in 2024. 

This initial commitment sets the stage for a long-term collaboration, with Vinh Hoan pledging to purchase a minimum of 15,000 metric tons of insect protein annually from Entobel between 2025 and 2027.

Nguyen Ngo Vi Tam, CEO of Vinh Hoan, highlights the transformative potential of this partnership in revolutionizing pangasius production. By incorporating Entobel’s insect protein into their feed formulations, Vinh Hoan aims to enhance the sustainability profile of its operations while maintaining product quality and nutritional integrity.

Entobel’s Vung Tau facility, operational since November 2023, represents a paradigm shift in insect protein production. Featuring 50 levels of vertical rearing and employing advanced automation technologies such as robotics, sensors, and data analytics, the facility boasts an annual production capacity of 10,000 metric tons. 

This state-of-the-art infrastructure positions Entobel as a global leader in sustainable feed ingredient production.

The decision to establish operations in Vietnam underscores Entobel’s strategic vision, leveraging the country’s tropical climate and favorable energy costs for optimal black soldier fly larvae cultivation. 

Moreover, a strategic partnership with Heineken’s Vietnam operations ensures a consistent supply of high-quality feedstock derived from brewery byproducts, further enhancing Entobel’s sustainability credentials.

Looking ahead, Entobel is primed for its Series C funding round in the second quarter of 2024 to fuel expansion initiatives across key Asian markets, including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. 

This expansion drive aligns with the burgeoning landscape of insect protein production in the region, with companies like Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia, Nutrition Technologies, and Protenga gaining traction and investor interest.

As the aquaculture industry continues to embrace sustainable practices, partnerships like Entobel and Vinh Hoan’s collaboration represent a pivotal step towards a more resilient and environmentally responsible food system.

By harnessing the power of insect protein, stakeholders are poised to address the dual challenges of feeding a growing population and mitigating the ecological footprint of food production.

For all the latest grains industry news from Africa, the Middle East, and the World, subscribe to our weekly NEWSLETTERS, follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.