The global food system faces a significant challenge: nearly a third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted. This waste not only represents a massive economic loss but also contributes to environmental degradation through landfill overflow and methane emissions. Maltento is a nature-based biotechnology company that addresses this problem head-on by harnessing the power of the Black Soldier Fly (BSF). BSF larvae are exceptional bioconverters, capable of consuming a wide range of organic by-products that would otherwise go to waste, including spent brewery grains and agro-waste.
This process offers a superior circular economy model, transforming low-value waste into nutrient-rich, high-value functional ingredients. The larvae are processed to produce protein meal, oil, and palatants, while their frass (excrement) is used as a natural bio-fertiliser. This model creates a ‘triple bottom line’ of benefits for people, planet, and profit by creating jobs, reducing waste and emissions, and generating valuable products. Maltento’s work is fully aligned with 8 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the company has been identified as a “Green Partnership” focused on climate finance and sustainable practices. We are fostering a more circular and sustainable food system by reducing pressure on natural resources like fish stocks and arable land, all while providing a low-carbon footprint solution.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the BSF model also creates a new economic value chain for agricultural by-products that were previously considered waste. This provides a new revenue stream for businesses and helps to create local employment opportunities, contributing to community development. The model is highly scalable and has the potential to be replicated in different regions, addressing the specific local contexts of food waste and resource management. By focusing on creating value from waste, Maltento is not only building a successful business but also a new, more resilient food system that can better meet the demands of a growing population without compromising the health of the planet. Maltento’s commitment to sustainability extends to its engagement with regulatory bodies and local governance. Through its involvement with the DFFE and GreenCape, Maltento is actively contributing to the development of national policies for novel protein sources. This collaboration is crucial for standardising the use of insect-based products and facilitating their adoption in the wider food system. By working with these institutions, Maltento is helping to build a transparent and safe regulatory environment, positioning itself as a thought leader and key stakeholder in the emerging green economy.
