F4F has launched Chile's first home-produced insect-fed farmed trout. Photo: F4F.

Chile’s first insect-fed farmed trout launched on market

The first Chilean farmed trout to be raised on insect protein have reached the market.

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Fly farmer F4F Food For The Future, which produces protein from black soldier fly larvae, has been leading an initiative to grow the fish.

On social media, F4F chief executive and co-founder Cristián Emhart stated: “Very excited to launch our InsectFed LandRaised trout in the Andes del Maule Region, zero impact on the ocean floor, without the use of antibiotics, over 65% fishmeal replacement and carbon neutral.”

“Thanks to our collaboration with [retailers] Pronto Copec, Cencosud and Tottus as well as impact partners, we receive and transform food waste into insect protein with which our trout are fed. Obtained and used in the same geographical region,” added Emhart.

Reducing pressure on oceans

F4F commercial manager Felipe Mayol, leader of the project, stated on social media that “after months of work by an entire team, our insect-fed trout has arrived”.

“By having consumed our protein as an important part of their diet, they have helped reduce the pressure on the oceans by reducing the carbon footprint associated with their food,” said Mayol.

The company told Fish Farming Expert’s Chilean sister site, Salmonexpert.cl, that the trout will be available for sale in specialised stores, restaurants, and on a website.

In France, supermarket chain Auchan began selling trout fed with an insect-based diet from Skretting in late 2018, and European insect farmers Protix, InnovaFeed, and Ynsect have all been working to increase volumes to supply the aquafeed industry.