The Research and Lifelong Learning Center for Urban and Environmental Entomology (REAL-ENTO) successfully hosted the two-day Insects for Food and Feed Workshop from 21–22 July 2025 at Kasetsart University. The workshop convened international experts, industry leaders, researchers, students, and entrepreneurs to exchange insights and practical experiences on the growing role of edible insects in food and feed systems.
Day 1 Highlights
The opening ceremony was presided over by the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and the Director of REAL-ENTO, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of insect-based innovations in sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Arisarawan Tanasinsiri (Thailand) opened the technical sessions with a talk on EU Novel Food Regulations and Market Directions, providing a comprehensive overview of international standards and opportunities for Asian producers.
Prof. Ohseok Kwon (Kyungpook National University, Korea) presented The Perspective of Insects for Food and Feed in Korea, highlighting policy frameworks and consumer perceptions.
Prof. Yoshihito Luchi (Yamaguchi University, Japan) shared Research and Development of Edible Insects in Japan, focusing on academic advances and industrial applications.
Asst. Prof. Chama Inson (Kasetsart University, Thailand) discussed Research and Development of Edible Insects in Thailand, underlining local innovations and commercialization pathways.
In the afternoon, participants joined a hands-on insect cooking workshop led by Amino Insecto, a startup founded by high school students from Bangkok Patana School. Guided by a professional chef, participants prepared insect-based dishes, while proceeds from the dinner event were donated to support refugees from Myanmar—showcasing how edible insect initiatives can link entrepreneurship with social impact.
Industry sessions followed:
Siam Bug and Piamsook Farms demonstrated innovations in Cavio and Protein Hydrolysate Production.
International perspectives were brought by Mr. Kwame Appiah Kubi (Founder, EarthCare Ghana) and Dr. Christian Ratompoarison (ProciNut Project & GIC-Gasy Insects Cosmestibles, Madagascar), who shared experiences from Africa on edible insect farming and product development.
Day 2 Highlights
The second day featured diverse perspectives from academia, industry, and sustainability practitioners.
Dr. Eunyoung Oh and Dr. Kyungmo Kang (Korea University, Republic of Korea) shared their recent research findings. Dr. Oh presented A Multi-Step Strategy to Develop Functional Protein Ingredients from Tenebrio molitor Larvae, while Dr. Kang introduced Trend Analysis of the Insect Industry for Food and Feed Using AI.
Mr. Jonathan Poh (Founder & Managing Director, Otolith Enrichment, Singapore) presented on the Circular Resource System, drawing from his experience in the Tampines Park sustainability project, which integrates insects into urban ecological cycles.
Assoc. Prof. Chanwit Kaewtapee (Kasetsart University, Thailand) delivered a talk on Insect Application in the Feed Industry, emphasizing practical applications for livestock and aquaculture.
Assoc. Prof. Anchana Thanchareon (Kasetsart University, Thailand) closed the technical sessions with a presentation on Black Soldier Fly (BSF) in Thailand: Research, GAP, and the Future Ahead. She also conducted a hands-on BSF Cookie for Feed Workshop, allowing participants to experience product development in practice.
The two-day workshop not only provided participants with scientific knowledge and practical skills but also inspired undergraduate students, researchers, industry stakeholders, and policymakers to expand their capacity in supporting the edible insect sector.
The Insects for Food and Feed Workshop successfully fostered cross-regional dialogue, practical engagement, and future-oriented collaborations. By bringing together voices from Asia, Africa, and beyond, the event highlighted the potential of insects to contribute to food security, sustainable agriculture, and circular economy solutions.
REAL-ENTO and Kasetsart University reaffirm their commitment to advancing international collaboration, research, and capacity building to support the growth of the edible insect industry.