Loopworm has secured EU TRACES certification for its silkworm pupae-derived products, enabling the company to supply its sustainable ingredients for pet and animal nutrition within the European Union. The certification, with approval number CAPEXIL/SR/PAC/ABP-PET/2425/402, marks a significant step for the company as it expands into the European market.
The certification process, completed with assistance from DGFT officials, AQCS Bangalore, and CAPEXIL Chennai, was finalized within a few months. Loopworm operates a GMP+, ISO 22000, and HACCP-certified facility with an annual production capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes.
Ankit Alok Bagaria, co-founder and CEO, said the certification validates the company’s commitment to quality and compliance with international standards. “Europe is an exceptional market for sustainable, high-quality ingredients, and we are eager to meet the growing demand for sustainable nutrition in pet and animal feed,” he said.
Since launching its LoopFactory in April 2024, Loopworm has supplied protein and fat products to the Asian aquaculture market, particularly for shrimp feed. These products have demonstrated benefits in improving feed palatability and growth rates.
Nutrient-dense products for pet food applications
Loopworm said its silkworm pupae are reared in climate-friendly conditions, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional feed ingredients. Its products include proteins rich in essential amino acids and trace minerals, as well as fats containing Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids, along with Vitamin E and phospholipids. Key offerings include:
- Silkworm Pupae Meal Concentrate with a minimum of 65% protein content.
- Nutrient-rich Omega 3,6,9 aroma oil.
- Whole dried silkworms for use as supplements for small pets, birds, reptiles, and fish.
Loopworm is also developing insect-derived palatants, flavor enhancers and functional products, with pilot-scale testing underway. Additional research is focused on using silkworm-derived biomolecules in anti-diabetic and anti-obesity formulations for pets, as well as creating recombinant protein platforms for animal therapeutics and diagnostics.
Bagaria added that the company is in discussions with several pet food manufacturers in Europe interested in incorporating Loopworm’s sustainable ingredients. “We are here to learn from our customers while educating them about the unique benefits of our products,” he said.
Loopworm Private Limited is an insect based nutrition startup, which develops products and solutions from industrially farmed insects for the well-being and nutrition of animals, plants and humans. By using insects, often overlooked and considered pests, Loopworm harnesses their potential as a sustainable bioresource.
Adapted from a press release.
