French provider of edible insects for animal and human feed Ynsect has purchased U.S. mealworm producer Jord Producers, expanding its footprint in the booming U.S. pet food market.
Ynsect breeds mealworms that produce proteins for aquaculture, livestock, pet food and fertilizers.
The company made its first entry into the U.S. market in late 2021 through a supply deal to Pure Simple to make premium food for dogs.
The acquisition of Jord Producers, based in Nebraska, will allow it to enter the fast-growing backyard chicken feed sector, it said.
The number of Americans having chickens in their backyards has doubled since 2018. By 2026, the U.S. market is predicted to reach approximately $400 million, according to a recent study by consultancy Arthur D. Little, cited by Ynsect.
Pet food makers are increasingly using insects such as flies and mealworms as a sustainable source of protein, capitalizing on rising pet ownership and booming demand from environmentally conscious consumers.
