Maltento, a leading producer of insect-based animal feed solutions in South Africa, has expanded into the European Union (EU) and UK markets.
Maltento achieved its EU export certification three years ago and now, with increased production capacity, is expanding its global footprint by supplying its premium, high-protein ingredients to pet food companies across the UK and European Union (EU).
Maltento’s golden whole-dried larvae, produced at its state-of-the-art insect production facility in Cape Town, leverages the biotechnology of the black soldier fly to produce golden-dried larvae that contains 45% protein and 27% fat. Over and above the nutritional benefits, Maltento uses spent brewers grain as the primary diet for their insects, which translates into a nutty roasted aroma when opening a bag of golden whole dried larvae. In addition to their nutritional advantages, Maltento benefits from Cape Town's Mediterranean climate, which provides optimal container loading and transport conditions which reduces spoilage compared to products shipped in the humid conditions prevalent in the East.
The product destined for export provides distributors and manufacturers in the EU and UK with a nutrient-dense, sustainable feed solution for wild birds and pets. Maltento said with less than 30 days required for shipment, European suppliers will be able to gain access to a natural, traceable and eco-friendly product that supports overall animal health and environmental sustainability.
“Our entry into the European market marks an exciting milestone for Maltento," said Dean Smorenburg, CEO of Maltento. "Our larvae are produced using a regenerative, closed-loop system that repurposes hundreds of thousands of kilograms of agro-processing waste into a valuable, eco-friendly product."
The company’s expanding global footprint follows four years of successful growth in the U.S., said Smorenburg.
“This aligns with our vision to create sustainable, environmentally-friendly pet feed solutions that benefit both our animals and the planet," said Smorenburg. "Our success offers a testament to the fact that global markets are taking a proactive approach to long-term sustainability across a number of different industries, with the collective aim of safeguarding our environment for future generations.”
The company’s traceable supply chain and proven export capabilities ensure a reliable and secure source of premium feed for European distributors and suppliers. Smorenburg said he looks forward to engaging directly with leading distributors and suppliers in the region over the coming weeks, with the aim of providing uniquely tailored solutions to the European market.
