Volare Completes Industrial-Scale Insect Protein Factory in Finland

Finnish biotechnology company Volare has completed its first industrial-scale insect protein factory, Volare 01, in Pori, Finland. The €15 million facility is designed to produce up to 5,000 tonnes of insect protein and 2,000 tonnes of insect oil annually.

Covering approximately 10,000 square metres, the factory uses black soldier fly larvae to convert food-industry side streams into protein and oil ingredients. Volare said the facility was completed on schedule and within its capital expenditure budget. Its production capacity represents a 1,000-fold increase over the company's demonstration plant.

Volare's insect protein is already used commercially in pet food, aquafeed and poultry feed. Previous pet food applications include insect-based dog treats developed with Alvar Pet and cat food products associated with VAFO Group's Dagsmark brand.

A significant share of the new factory's planned output has been committed to customers, including aquafeed producer Skretting and an undisclosed global chemical company. Contract volumes have not been publicly disclosed.

Alongside the factory completion, Volare has raised €7.1 million through Springvest to support production ramp-up and preparations for further industrial expansion.

The company is now looking to replicate its production model in other markets. The new facility adds industrial-scale insect protein capacity in Europe and provides another potential ingredient source for pet food manufacturers seeking alternative protein materials.