EBRD, EU back Proteina’s insect-based animal feed revolution in Egypt  

EGYPT – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU) are championing sustainability in Egypt’s animal feed industry by supporting Proteina Feeds, a pioneering company revolutionising feed production with insect-based proteins. 

This partnership is a win for sustainable agriculture and a bold step toward addressing Egypt’s organic waste challenge while setting new benchmarks for innovation in animal feed and pet food production.  

Proteina, founded by Egyptian entrepreneur Ashraf El Sharkawy, is leveraging black soldier fly larvae to produce high-quality protein as an alternative to resource-heavy fishmeal and soybean meal. 

This groundbreaking initiative responds to the dual pressures of rising feed costs and the urgent need for sustainable food systems. 

With the backing of the EBRD and the EU, Proteina is scaling up operations, introducing Egypt’s first large-scale black soldier fly production facility capable of recycling up to 15 tons of organic waste daily.  

Proteina began with Ashraf’s determination to transform his family’s soybean production business into a sustainability leader. 

Drawing inspiration from the environmental efficiencies of black soldier fly larvae, the company has developed a production model that turns vegetable waste into premium protein for animal feed while generating organic fertiliser as a byproduct.  

“Black soldier flies are incredibly efficient,” says Ashraf. “They help us create a true circular economy by transforming waste into valuable resources for farmers and food systems.”  

Establishing the optimal environment for insect farming was a challenge, requiring innovative solutions for stable climatic conditions. 

With technical expertise and funding from the EBRD, Proteina adopted a water-based cooling system, ensuring the scalability and reliability of its production processes.  

Proteina’s sustainable feed innovation is not limited to livestock. The company is venturing into the pet food market with organic products made from insect protein. 

This move, supported by EBRD and EU funding, positions Proteina as a key player in Egypt’s growing pet food industry. The expansion aligns with a global trend toward environmentally conscious consumer choices.  

As Proteina scales up, its impact extends beyond feed production. The company actively educates farmers on waste recycling and resource recovery, aiming to reduce landfill use and promote sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.  

Proteina’s partnership with the EBRD and EU underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in agriculture and food systems. 

The company is tackling some of Egypt’s most pressing environmental and food security challenges by transforming organic waste into protein-rich animal and pet feed.  

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