Better Origin: Transforming Food Waste into Chicken Feed with Insect Technology

A compelling connection exists between waste and value; where flies are present, profitability often follows. Better Origin, an innovative startup, is pioneering a method to convert discarded food into vital nutrients. This is achieved through the utilization of insects, specifically as a feed source for chickens, all contained within a repurposed shipping container.

Recent Funding and Competitive Landscape

The company has successfully secured a $3 million seed funding round. This investment was spearheaded by Fly Ventures and Nick Boyle, a prominent solar entrepreneur. Metavallon VC, an existing investor, also participated in this funding initiative. Better Origin operates within a competitive market, facing rivals such as Protix, Agriprotein, InnovaFeed, Enterra, and Entocycle.

The X1 Insect Mini-Farm: A Decentralized Solution

Better Origin’s core offering is the “autonomous insect mini-farm.” The X1 unit is deployed directly on a farm’s premises. Farmers introduce food waste – sourced from local factories or generated on-site – into a hopper. This waste serves as nourishment for the larvae of black soldier flies.

Within a two-week period, these insects are then provided as feed to the chickens, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional soy-based feed. The entire process is fully automated and remotely monitored by Better Origin’s engineering team based in Cambridge, ensuring ease of operation.

Addressing Food Waste and Soy Dependency

This innovative approach yields a dual benefit. It effectively manages food waste, a common byproduct of agricultural practices, while simultaneously reducing reliance on soy. The widespread cultivation of soy is a significant contributor to deforestation and habitat destruction, particularly in regions like Brazil.

Furthermore, the recent global pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities within the international food supply chain. Better Origin’s solution promotes a decentralized model for food and feed production, bolstering food security and resilience.

The Scale of the Problem and Better Origin’s Response

Better Origin recognizes a substantial challenge. Approximately one-third of all food produced in Western economies is wasted annually. However, projections indicate that food production must increase by 70% to meet the demands of a growing global population. Food waste is also a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, ranking as the third-largest emitter globally, following only the US and China.

From Oil & Gas to Sustainable Engineering

The company’s founder, Fotis Fotiadis, transitioned from the Oil & Gas sector, driven by a desire to contribute to a sustainable and environmentally responsible industry. After completing studies in Sustainable Engineering at Cambridge University and collaborating with co-founder Miha Pipan, they embarked on the creation of this sustainable venture.

Growth and Business Model

Launched in May 2020, Better Origin has already secured five commercial contracts and is actively planning expansion throughout the U.K.

The company distinguishes itself from competitors through its decentralized approach to insect farming. The X1 units are designed for easy integration onto farms, functioning much like adding a server to a data center.

Better Origin intends to offer its systems to farms through a combination of leasing and sales options, potentially incorporating a subscription-based model.