Defatted Insect Powder Global Market Insights 2025, Analysis and Forecast to 2030, by Market Participants, Regions, Technology, Application, Product Type

Defatted Insect Powder Market Overview

The defatted insect powder market is poised for significant growth from 2025 to 2030, driven by increasing demand for sustainable protein sources and the rising adoption of insect-based products in various industries. Defatted insect powder, derived from insects such as mealworms, black soldier flies, and silkworm chrysalis, is gaining traction due to its high protein content, eco-friendly production process, and versatility in applications like pet food, animal feed, and human nutrition. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5%-10.2% during the forecast period, reaching a valuation of $1.2 billion-$1.5 billion by 2030.

Market Size and Share Analysis

The global defatted insect powder market was valued at $750 million-$800 million in 2024 and is projected to expand significantly by 2030. The market is segmented by product type, process, application, end-use, and region. Among product types, mealworm powder holds the largest market share at 35%-40%, followed by black soldier fly powder at 30%-35%, and silkworm chrysalis powder at 20%-25%. Other insect powders, such as cricket and grasshopper powder, account for the remaining 5%-10%.

By Product Type

• Mealworm Powder: Dominates the market due to its high protein content and ease of production.
• Black Soldier Fly Powder: Gaining popularity for its use in animal feed and pet food.
• Silkworm Chrysalis Powder: Widely used in Asia for its nutritional benefits.
• Others: Includes cricket, grasshopper, and other insect powders.

By Process

The market is segmented into dry processing and wet processing. Dry processing accounts for 60%-65% of the market share, as it is cost-effective and preserves the nutritional value of the powder. Wet processing, though less common, is used for specialized applications and holds a 35%-40% share.

By Application

• Pet Food: The largest application segment, accounting for 45%-50% of the market.
• Feed: Used in aquaculture, poultry, and livestock feed, holding a 30%-35% share.
• Others: Includes human nutrition, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, with a 15%-20% share.

By End-Use

The market is divided into industrial and commercial end-use segments. The industrial segment, which includes feed manufacturers and pet food producers, holds a 70%-75% share. The commercial segment, comprising retail and direct-to-consumer sales, accounts for 25%-30%.

By Region

Geographically, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. Europe leads the market with a 35%-40% share, driven by stringent regulations promoting sustainable protein sources. North America follows with a 25%-30% share, while Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the highest growth rate of 10%-12% due to increasing demand for insect-based products in countries like China and India.

Key Players and Competitive Landscape

The defatted insect powder market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on product innovation, partnerships, and expansions to strengthen their market position. Major companies include:

• Lifeasible: A leading player in insect-based protein solutions.
• Divaks: Specializes in black soldier fly powder for animal feed.
• Bioforte Biotechnology: Known for its high-quality mealworm powder.
• Nasekomo: Focuses on sustainable insect farming and processing.
• JR Unique Foods: Offers a wide range of insect-based products.
• Protix: A pioneer in insect protein production for feed and food.
• Aspire: Focuses on cricket-based protein products.
• Kunyi Biotech: Specializes in silkworm chrysalis powder.

Market Trends and Drivers

The defatted insect powder market is driven by several key trends:

• Sustainability: Increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of insect farming, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower water usage.
• Health and Nutrition: Rising demand for high-protein, low-fat food and feed products.
• Regulatory Support: Governments and regulatory bodies promoting insect-based products as a sustainable protein source.
• Technological Advancements: Innovations in insect farming and processing technologies improving efficiency and scalability.

Market Challenges

Despite its growth potential, the market faces several challenges:

• Consumer Acceptance: Limited awareness and cultural barriers in some regions.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Varying regulations across countries affecting market entry and expansion.
• High Production Costs: Initial investment and operational costs for insect farming and processing.

Market News on Policy and Companies

Recent developments in the defatted insect powder market include:

• Policy Changes: The European Union approved the use of insect-based proteins in poultry and pig feed in 2025, boosting market growth.
• Company Expansions: Protix announced a $50 million investment to expand its production capacity in the Netherlands.
• Partnerships: Lifeasible partnered with a leading pet food manufacturer to develop insect-based pet food products.

Segment Forecasts (2025-2030)

The defatted insect powder market is expected to witness robust growth across all segments:

• By Product Type: Mealworm powder will continue to dominate, with black soldier fly powder showing the highest growth rate.
• By Application: The pet food segment will remain the largest, while the feed segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9%-11%.
• By Region: Asia-Pacific will emerge as the fastest-growing region, driven by increasing demand for sustainable protein sources.

Conclusion

The defatted insect powder market is set to experience significant growth from 2025 to 2030, driven by increasing demand for sustainable protein sources, regulatory support, and technological advancements. Key players are focusing on innovation and expansion to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Despite challenges like consumer acceptance and regulatory hurdles, the market is poised for a bright future, with Europe leading the way and Asia-Pacific showing the highest growth potential.