A comprehensive assessment of the quality and safety of insect derived extracts (both crude and processed) and suitability for incorporation into animal and fish feed will be undertaken. We will determine the nutritional composition (e.g. amino acids), safety (chemical and microbiological), allergenicity and quality (e.g. taints) of insects and meat/fish produced from insects. We will also identify other high value products such as vitamins, minerals and chitin as byproducts of the protein production process.

A risk assessment framework will be constructed by leading food safety experts resulting in a prioritised testing matrix to generate the first substantial compositional dataset in relation to insects and insect products used for dietary purposes. This will adhere to food and feed safety guidelines according to EC Directive 2002/32. Testing will be performed both in state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and using industry standard testing protocols. Testing will be focussed on materials at their point of entry into the food chain, therefore whole insects, insect extracts and meat/fish from feeding trials will be assessed. Measurements will be diverse, but will include an evaluation of the most likely safety threats to successful adoption of insect protein use in animal feed. Significant risks that will need to be managed include:

• Environmental contaminants such as: heavy metals, dioxins, PCB & PAHs
• Viruses and other human pathogens.
• Chemical residues (e.g. pesticides, veterinary medicines).
• Allergens
• Taints