Beta Bugs has strengthened its position as one of the most closely watched companies in the insect protein sector, after announcing two important developments that could help accelerate the adoption of insect-based ingredients in the poultry industry.
The Edinburgh-based Black Soldier Fly (BSF) genetics specialist has secured new investment of £800.000 from its existing shareholders. In addition, the company has entered into a strategic partnership with FreezeM Cryogenetics to bring its advanced genetics platform, HiPer-Fly, to producers across Europe.
These developments are significant for the poultry sector, as insect meal continues to attract attention as a sustainable protein source for poultry feed. Greater efficiency, productivity, and consistency in BSF production are seen as crucial steps toward increasing the availability and affordability of insect-based ingredients for commercial feed producers.
Beta Bugs stated that the latest funding will support the achievement of key milestones ahead of the first commercial sales of HiPer-Fly products, which are expected to begin in early 2027. The company reported that independent trials completed in early 2026 demonstrated performance superior to industry benchmarks.
HiPer-Fly is the result of more than 45 generations of selective breeding designed to improve BSF performance. According to the company, recent comparative trials have confirmed the benefits of its genetic improvement program, while also highlighting the important role of advanced breeding techniques in the insect farming sector.