The circular bioeconomy, also known as biocircularity, is gaining importance as a sustainable alternative to the current linear economic model and to recent circular economy strategies. This approach combines the principles of circularity and bioeconomy to create a more environmentally friendly and resource-efficient system, thus constituting a multidisciplinary framework in which biocircular business models could successfully advance in each step (and stakeholder) in their value chain.

Furthermore, the concept of circular bioeconomy (or biocircularity) is proposed as an integrated systems approach to the sustainable production of renewable biological materials focusing on extended use, maximum reuse, recycling, and design for degradation from polymers to monomers, while avoiding the “failure” of end of life and minimizing energy demand and waste. In this context, insect protein plays a crucial role in enhancing circular bioeconomy by efficiently converting organic waste into valuable protein sources.

Insect protein in circular economy

Insects can be reared on various types of organic waste, including agricultural by-products, food processing residues, and kitchen waste, thus contributing to the circular economy by transforming these materials into high-quality protein. This process not only reduces waste but also produces a sustainable protein source with minimal environmental impact, as insect farming requires significantly less land, water, and energy compared to traditional livestock production. Moreover, the use of insects in the food chain promotes resource efficiency and helps close nutrient cycles, further supporting the principles of circular bioeconomy and sustainable food production.

In the last few months, AINIA, in close collaboration with PROTEINSECTA and THUNDERFOODS, has been developing a downstream processing method to transform Tenebrio molitor larvae into a defatted protein ingredient suitable for protein-rich insect-based drinks. The process aims to meet specific quality standards to the final ingredient, including a protein content higher than 70% and a fat content lower than 4%, along with precise particle size requirements. The primary challenge in this development is mainly focused on achieving the necessary solubility for proper incorporation into beverages. To address this, various technologies for their effectiveness in enhancing the solubility of the Tenebrio molitor protein ingredient are being evaluated such as enzymatic hydrolysis or micronization

AINIA at BioSummit 2025

Additionally, AINIA will participate in the inaugural edition of the BioSummit, a one-day event where key stakeholders will provide critical insights into the circular bioeconomy sector. This concept integrates bioeconomy and circularity to support the production of renewable feedstocks, emphasizing the optimization of biomass yield while safeguarding essential natural capital. The event will address several fundamental aspects, including national and European political and regulatory frameworks related to energy, fuels, renewable gases, circular economy, water, and waste. It will also explore the interconnections between sectors such as agriculture, farming, forestry, and others, while highlighting sustainability, positive environmental impacts, and innovation.

About AINIA

AINIA is a private non-profit agri-food tecnological centre with one of the largest business social bases in Europe. It has with over 220 employees with expertise on biotechnology, waste/wastewater treatment, environmental engineering and food/feed product validation.

AINIA will provide its know-how on i) gas fermentation technologies in the microbial platform (CO2 and CH4 bioconversion to caproic acid and SCP) (WP3) and food/feed product validation (WP5). Learn more about the project partners here.