Always wanted to be an insect breeder? New college course to be launched soon
The Antwerp-based Thomas More university of applied sciences will be offering a short training course in insect breeding starting this autumn. With a practical training of six lessons, it wants to give the relatively young sector a boost.
“Insects can play a big role in the sustainable world of tomorrow”, researchers at the college’s Radius expertise centre said on Tuesday. “You can grow them in small spaces and they use little water. Unfortunately, there are still very few insect breeders in Flanders.”
With the support of the Flemish Innovation and Enterprise Agency (VLAIO), the researchers are preparing a course consisting of six modules. These will take place both online and on-campus – among the insects – in Geel (Antwerp province).
Firstly, participants will learn all about breeding cycles, different types of insects and relevant legislation. Next, they learn how to set up a sustainable breeding installation and how to store cultivated insects. Finally, they will learn which applications there are for using insects and how to draw up a business plan.
Insects are suitable as a protein substitute because of their high protein content. In addition, they contain fats which can be processed in cosmetics or serve as cattle feed.
(BRV)
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© PHOTO AFP / MENAHEM KAHANA