Insect welfare

At Entocycle, we are committed to ensuring the welfare of all animals under our care, including insects. We recognise that insects, as living beings, deserve to be treated with respect and provided with conditions that promote their physical and general well-being. While having different requirements from animals, our insect welfare policy nonetheless focuses on Bramble's Five Freedoms, which serve as the guiding principles for our practices.

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

Our insects have access to a suitable diet to support their growth and vitality. Feeding schedules are carefully managed to manage and maximise their health and development.

2. Freedom from discomfort

We will provide insects with an environment that promotes their comfort and well-being. This includes appropriate temperature, humidity, and substrate to render an environment as close to its natural habitat as possible. Measures will be taken to prevent overcrowding and minimise stress.

3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease

We are committed to preventing and treating any health issues that may arise among our insect populations. Regular checks will be conducted on the colony's health (e.g. survival rates), and improvements will be made as needed. Measures will also be implemented to minimise the risk of injury and disease transmission within the breeding facilities.

4. Freedom to express normal behaviour

Insects have natural behaviours and instincts that are essential for their well-being. We will ensure that breeding enclosures and management practices allow insects to engage in their species-specific behaviours as much as possible within the limits of our facilities.

5. Freedom from fear and distress

While research into the sentience of black soldier flies is limited, we will nonetheless seek to minimise factors that may cause discomfort. Handling procedures will be respectful, and breeding and growth environments will be designed to minimise exposure to potential threats. Any necessary transportation or relocation will be carried out with care to minimise stress or risk of injury.

Implementation

To achieve the above aims, we will take the following actions:

Education and training

All staff involved in insect handling receive training on insect welfare, including BSF-specific needs and behaviours. Continuous education will be provided to ensure that staff members stay updated on best practices and advancements in insect welfare. Company-wide training and education via our weekly Literature Reviews help spread awareness and understanding of our insects’ needs.

Monitoring and assessment

Regular insect welfare monitoring and assessment will be conducted to identify any issues or areas for improvement. This includes behavioural observations, health checks, and environmental assessments.

Research and innovation

We are committed to advancing the field of insect welfare through research and innovation. We will collaborate with experts in entomology and related fields to develop and implement new practices that enhance the welfare of insects in our care.

Transparency and accountability

We will communicate openly with stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and regulatory agencies, regarding our insect welfare practices. We will also hold ourselves accountable for upholding the standards outlined in this policy and seek feedback for continuous improvement.