Industrial-scale plant for insect-derived ingredient maker

Founded in 2020, Divaks is a food-tech company developing insect-derived ingredients for the food industry. Based in Lithuania, the company has selected the Swiss technology group Bühler to build its first commercial-scale yellow mealworm plant.

The plant is scheduled to go into operation in 2025 and will produce up to 15,000 tonnes of sustainable insect-derived products annually. Bühler will be responsible for planning and executing the plant as well as providing solutions for the entire supply chain.

Following the establishment of its pilot facility in May 2022, Divaks expects to double its production by 2030 in the new facility, which is planned to be constructed on a 10,000 m² site.

In the new plant, Divaks will produce yellow mealworm (scientifically known as Tenebrio molitor), which is an environmentally friendly, nutritious protein source that can be used in applications including meat alternatives, sports nutrition, snacks and confectionery as well as pet food. The residue from the mealworm production (or insect frass) will be used as organic fertiliser.

As the technology provider for the plant, Bühler will be responsible for all process technology, which will include feedstock preparation to provide safe, palatable and nourishing feed to the larvae and a fully automated larvae growth system with climate control. Bühler will also provide the processing line to transform the harvested larvae into textured insect proteins (TIP), insect protein concentrates (IPC) and other specialised food ingredients.

Insect-derived ingredients from Tenebrio molitor.

Divaks CEO and Co-Founder Kęstutis Lipnickas said: “This is a huge step forward for Divaks as we work to establish ourselves as global leaders in high-quality insect-derived ingredients for human nutrition. Bühler will deliver the state-of-the art technology we need, allowing us to focus on the most important activities: market development and creating sustainable products that excel in nutritional and functional qualities.”

Andreas Baumann, Head of Market Segment Insect Technology at Bühler, added: “We are delighted to have been chosen to provide a full-scope solution for Divaks’ yellow mealworm production site. It reinforces Bohler’s commitment to ambitious targets that will help to mitigate climate change and build a more sustainable food system.

Lipnickas added: “Edible insects have a key role to play as we move toward a more resilient and sustainable food system. Our new facility will help food brands tap into this fast-growing, high-potential sector with high-quality protein ingredients for premium food products.”

Top image is a rendering of the Divaks plant.