In the dynamic realm of sustainable food production, a remarkable transformation is underway, led by a pioneering group of companies championing insect larvae as a revolutionary protein source. FreezeM has been recognized among these trailblazers, leveraging cutting-edge CRISPR technologies to elevate the efficiency and nutritional quality of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae.

Breaking Ground with CRISPR Technology

CRISPR, or Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, is a revolutionary gene-editing technology that has significantly impacted various fields, including agriculture and biotechnology. CRISPR allows scientists to precisely modify the DNA of organisms, including, of course, insects, by targeting specific genes.

Genetic Enhancement: CRISPR enables the targeted enhancement of specific traits in insects, aligning with the goals of insect-based animal feed production. This could involve modifying genes related to growth, reproduction, or resistance to environmental stressors.

Adaptation to Production Scales: By using CRISPR, we can potentially tailor the genetic makeup of insects to adapt seamlessly to diverse production setups and volumes, providing scalability to meet the global demand for sustainable animal feed.

Environmental Sustainability: CRISPR offers the opportunity to create insect lines that are more environmentally sustainable. This includes traits that enhance resource utilization, enable the upcycling of more waste streams using BSF, reduce ecological impact, and contribute to the overall efficiency of insect farming as a sustainable alternative in animal feed production.

Enhancing BSF Strains with Precision Gene Editing

Our commitment to pushing boundaries at FreezeM led us to harness the power of CRISPR–Cas9 technology, resulting in the enhancement of BSF strains. Deploying 400 guide RNAs targeting approximately 150 genes controlling metabolism, we’ve achieved strains with larger larvae, and prolonged larval periods. Notably, our gene-editing efforts include a focus on the sema-1a ortholog, a key regulator influencing molting. The result? Larvae that are a staggering 50% larger than their wild counterparts.

The versatility of our genetic engineering platform enables us to capitalize on the promising research path of reducing chitin in insect exoskeletons, a breakthrough that holds great promise for enhancing aquaculture feed efficiency and further solidifying our commitment to tailoring BSF strains for specific applications.

BSF Titan: 50% Bigger

FreezeM is developing advanced genetic lines of black soldier flies (BSF), leveraging CRISPR gene-editing for the optimization of growth, reproduction, and environmental resistance traits.

The innovation includes the BSF-Titan, a groundbreaking development in BSF genetic engineering. The BSF-Titan line phenotype is a 50% bigger larvae that maintains the same nutrition values (protein, oil ect.) as the wild type strain.

BSF-Titan utilizes CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing methodologies to enhance BSF growth  and protein content.

This line, in its final development stages, aims to enhance size and protein content, showcasing a 50% increase in larvae size and improved protein production yield. The BSF-Titan line could be obtained through traditional methods, complying with European regulatory non-GMO standards. BSF Titan marks a significant stride in sustainable and scalable insect farming for animal nutrition.

Ensuring safe and ethical genetic engineering practices

Achieving safe and ethical genetic engineering requires careful consideration of the underlying molecular mechanisms and the potential downstream effects of genetic modifications. It is crucial to ensure that any genetic modifications comply with established ethical guidelines and that the resulting organisms remain safe and viable for their intended applications. The work of our experienced scientific team at FreezeM acknowledges a comprehensive understanding of the genetic pathways involved, as well as the potential risks and benefits associated with genetic engineering.

Empowering the Future with Genetic Engineering

As we look forward to the future, enhanced genetic lines, like FreezeM’s first demonstration of BSF-Titan, are expected to open new horizons and applications for the BSF farming industry, and enable it to fulfill its potential.

FreezeM’s cooperation with the Khalaila lab at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev pushes the boundaries of CRISPR-Cas9 editing in Black Soldier Flies (BSF). Unlike the conventional method limited to editing one egg per injection, FreezeM, alongside Dr. Khalaila’s lab, pioneers a revolutionary approach enabling the simultaneous editing of hundreds of eggs in a single injection. This groundbreaking process involves a complex comprising CRISPR machinery and OSDel, a peptide facilitating delivery into developing female oocytes.

Targeting adult females allows editing of the DNA of all progenies, opening avenues for large-scale CRISPR editing with potential heritable changes across generations. Generously funded by the Israel Innovation Authority, this project underscores FreezeM’s commitment to advancing biotechnological innovations in BSF genetics. The genetic engineering platform promises superior BSF lines tailored to specific applications, amplifying production efficiency and overall performance.

The Larger Context and Future Prospects

These revolutionary methods align with the broader context of a burgeoning insect protein market, projected to reach $1.14 billion by 2027. Our contributions to the consortium, supported by the Israel Innovation Authority, exemplify collaborative efforts aimed at optimizing and scaling up BSF production. As the global demand for sustainable protein sources intensifies, FreezeM’s innovations represent a significant stride toward establishing insect larvae as a viable and eco-friendly alternative.

In conclusion, FreezeM’s pioneering work in utilizing CRISPR technologies to enhance insect protein for feed underscores the transformative potential of genetic engineering in sustainable agriculture. As we continue to lead the way in developing efficient and scalable solutions, the broader insect farming industry stands to benefit from advancements that could reshape the future of animal feed production.

In the realm of insects, the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) and its larvae have emerged as fascinating subjects of study, capturing the attention of researchers and environmentalists alike. BSF transcends mere entomology. It offers a glimpse into the complex tapestry of nature’s recycling systems. It is a tropical fly species with exceptional organic matter decomposition capabilities and a myriad of applications ranging from protein-rich animal and fish feed to the production of valuable byproducts like oleochemicals and frass. These enigmatic larvae are proving to be ecological game-changers.

The Black Soldier Fly and Its Extraordinary Lifecycle

The Black Soldier Fly, scientifically known as Hermetia illucens, is an insect native to Latin America, but it has expanded to almost every region on the planet. Thriving in temperatures between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, its broad temperature tolerance makes it adaptable to diverse environments.

What makes these creatures particularly intriguing is their unique life cycle. The adult BSF does not consume solid food and has a lifespan of only a few days, during which its primary goal is to reproduce. The female lays eggs, and once hatched, the larvae become the focus of attention due to their incredible transformative abilities. Larvae undergo a staggering 8,000-fold size increase in a mere 14 days.

To put it in perspective, this rapid growth is like a human baby transforming into a full-sized adult gray whale weighing over
20,000 kg in just a couple of weeks!

Lyfe Cycle

Egg Stage: The life cycle begins with the egg stage, where female black soldier flies lay their eggs in cracks and crevices near decaying organic matter, such as compost or food waste. The female black soldier fly deposits a mass of 200 to 900 eggs at a time, which hatch into larvae in about four days. Each oval-shaped egg is about 1 mm in length.

Larva Stage: The larva stage is where the real action happens. The larvae can reach up to 300mg after six moltings (insters), during which they shed their exoskeleton to accommodate their growing size. They are a dull, whitish color with a small, projecting head containing chewing mouthparts. Larvae require approximately 14 days to complete development. These larvae are voracious eaters with a high turnover rate for the feed, capable of consuming large amounts of organic material in a short time. They play a critical role in breaking down and recycling waste, transforming it into nutrient-rich frass and biomass.

Pupa Stage: During this stage, the larvae stop feeding and search for a place to pupate (pre-pupa). Their walking in line in search of a place to pupate is why the fly got its name – Black Soldier Fly. They enter the pupa stage, where they undergo metamorphosis to transform into adult black soldier flies. Pupation requires about two weeks. This is a non-feeding stage focused on development.

Adult Stage: Adult black soldier flies do not consume solid food. They have a wasp-like appearance and are black or blue in color. They also have two translucent “windows” located on the abdomen. Adults may range from 15 to 20 mm in length and their primary focus is on mating and reproducing, completing the life cycle. They are non-pest insects, ie, beneficial to our ecosystem, and do not cause damage to property or crops, pose health risks or are a nuisance as other insects.

A Striking Appearance

Cloaked in a mysterious blend of white and black hues, BSF (Black Soldier Fly) don a distinctive conical shape optimized for interacting with organic matter. Delicate hairs grace their bodies, lending them an almost otherworldly appearance. Despite their unassuming demeanor, these insects undergo remarkable growth, reaching an impressive size of up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) during their larval stage.

Physical Characteristics

Color: Black Soldier Fly neonates have white tones, but as they grow, larvae are typically dark brown to black. This coloration makes them easy to spot, especially in compost or waste material.

Conical Shape: These larvae have a distinctive conical shape, with a wider posterior end and a tapering, pointed head. This shape aids them in burrowing into their food source.

Size: Black Soldier Fly larvae grow to an impressive length of around 1 inch (2.5 cm) during their larval stage, making them one of the larger fly larvae species.

Fine Hairs: Their bodies are covered in tiny, fine hairs, which may help them move through their environment and interact with their surroundings.

Efficient Waste Converters

These unique characteristics and life stages make Black Soldier Fly larvae valuable contributors to waste management, sustainable agriculture, and various ecological processes. Their efficiency as decomposers and nutrient-rich composition make them an eco-friendly solution to several environmental and food security challenges.

In a mere two weeks, 500 grams of neonate larvae have the astounding ability to devour up to 15 tonnes of waste, generating an impressive one ton of protein in the process.

BSF larvae are highly efficient in converting organic waste into biomass. They can consume a wide range of organic materials. Additionally, they display resilience against microorganisms and parasites, surviving in challenging environments while effectively cooperating with microorganisms to degrade organic waste.

Regulations, though, prohibit feeding certain materials to insects, especially those classified as meat, manure or urban waste. These regulations are very strict on what are permitted insect substrates. These may include vegetal matter, such as cereal grains, legume seeds, roots, fruits, forages and algae, and non‑animal-containing industry by‑products from bakery and confectionery industries and from processing fruit and vegetables. Certain animal by-products as substrates are also permitted, including milk, cooked eggs, and fats…provided that the substrates have undergone processing such as pasteurizing, cooking or baking under the hygiene regulations.

BSF Larvae As a Protein Factory

Dried and frozen Black Soldier Fly larvae can be used in animal feed applications directly or further processed into products such as BSF meal powder, puree and BSF oil.
One of the most significant contributions of BSF larvae lies in their protein content. Studies have shown that these larvae are exceptionally rich in protein and other nutrients, including essential amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins, making them an ideal candidate for animal and fish feed.

The nutrient amounts largely depend on the quality of food, with about 18–33% fat and 32–53% protein.

With a protein content in the range of traditional feed sources like soy (40-48%) and fish meal (60-68%), BSF larvae present a sustainable alternative that can help address global concerns about the environmental impact of traditional feed production, such as land -and sea resources- exhaustion, water consumption or greenhouse gas emissions.

Research indicates that BSF larvae and BSF meal have excellent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and hypoallergenic properties, resulting in health improvements in the animals that consume them. One of the main applications is in the production of hypoallergenic foods for pets.

A Circular Solution to Organic Waste

Beyond their role in the food chain, BSF larvae contribute to a sustainable and circular economy. As the larvae consume organic waste, they not only reduce the environmental burden of waste disposal but also create valuable byproducts such as oil and frass.

Insect oil is obtained by the process of defatting insect proteins, is highly digestible and provides a sustainable source of energy for many animals. The lipid content of BSF larvae/prepupae is influenced by the feed for growth and can reach more than 50%.

BSF lipids mainly consist of medium-chain saturated fatty acids, with lauric acid (LA) being the dominant component. LA has been reported to exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anticancer properties. Moreover, it has applications in various fields, such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, body care, plastics, and textiles.

The excrement of the larvae, known as frass, is a nutrient-rich fertilizer that contains essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, contributing to soil enrichment and plant growth. However, many aspects related to frass are still unknown, such as its varying composition of nutrients, microorganisms and bioactive compounds, its behavior in the soil and its action in the plants’ metabolism, among other aspects that are subject to numerous studies.

Research Insights: Unlocking the Potential

Scientific research on BSF larvae continues to unveil new possibilities and applications. Studies have explored optimal conditions for larvae growth, refining techniques for mass production, development of strains to increase protein or oil yield, and assessing the nutritional composition of the larvae. The results are promising, pointing towards a future where BSF larvae play a crucial role in sustainable agriculture, waste management, and alternative protein production.

BSF-Titan® is a genetically engineered BSF line developed by FreezeM that aims to enhance its size and protein content through CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing methodologies. BSF-Titan® is the first Black Soldier Fly line showcasing augmented production performance, exhibiting a 50% increase in larvae size and significantly improving protein production yield.

To learn more about FreezeM technology >>

Conclusion: Paving the Way for a Sustainable Future

In nature’s grand tapestry, Black Soldier Fly larvae are unsung heroes, weaving a story of transformation as they turn organic waste into valuable resources. Their applications range from protein-rich feeds for livestock and aquaculture to eco-friendly fertilizers and industrial chemicals, showcasing the vast potential of these remarkable insects.

As we unravel the mysteries of their world, we discover not only ecological solutions but also a path toward a more sustainable and harmonious future. The multifaceted benefits of Black Soldier Fly larvae serve as a testament to the beauty of nature’s intricate design and its capacity to address the challenges of our time.

As we bid farewell to 2023, allow me a moment to reflect on a year filled with accomplishments, growth, and innovation. The entire team achieved remarkable milestones in our growth as a market leader in the insect industry, and I want to take this opportunity to guide you through some of the key highlights that have defined our year.

In a year marked by significant growth in the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) industry, FreezeM has played a pivotal role, setting new standards and contributing to the industry’s advancement. Join me as we explore these milestones and the exciting path ahead for FreezeM within the flourishing landscape of the BSF industry.

1. Expanding Horizons: Launching Production in Europe with Hermetia Collaboration

In a groundbreaking move, FreezeM extended its reach by establishing a collaboration with Hermetia GmbH, one of the pioneers of BSF farming, marking our production launch in Europe. This strategic partnership broadens our geographical footprint and strengthens our commitment to sustainable and efficient Black Soldier Fly breeding practices. We can now support customers throughout Europe at scale from one centralized breeding hub.

2. Product Evolution: Advancements in PauseM®

Driven by customer feedback and a relentless pursuit of excellence, FreezeM continued to enhance PauseM®, our flagship product. This year saw significant improvements in product-market fit, increased compatibility with automation systems, and optimization for large-scale supply operations. These developments underscore our dedication to providing a seamless and efficient outsourcing solution for BSF breeding. During the last year, we have sent PauseM® to various locations worldwide and tested its performance in different production settings – from large-scale centralized operations to pilot facilities or decentralized, modular rearing units. The insights we gained were priceless, demonstrating the superior performance on various feedstocks and growth settings.

3. Genetic Breakthrough: Introducing BSF Titan and GFP-BSF

A momentous achievement for FreezeM in 2023 was the successful generation of the first enhanced BSF genetic line, BSF Titan, as covered in Feed&Additive magazine, leveraging our advanced genetics platform. BSF Titan larvae can reach a 50% higher weight with an improved feed conversion rate (FCR), demonstrating the potential of using targeted genetics to enhance larvae performance. This groundbreaking accomplishment showcases our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in insect breeding. Additionally, FreezeM proudly presents the world’s first GFP-BSF, demonstrating our leadership in genetic research within the insect-based protein production industry.

4. Industry Recognition: Embracing the Decoupled Production Model

FreezeM’s visionary approach to separate reproduction (breeding) and production (rearing and processing) has gained widespread recognition throughout the industry. More players are adopting innovative breeding solutions, including outsourcing and hybrid (combined outsource and in-house breeding) models, positioning FreezeM at the forefront of pioneering practices that redefine the future of BSF breeding. More and more BSF industry newcomers can now see they can enter the field with much lower investment and grow faster by adopting our decoupled model.

5. Team Growth: Welcoming New Talent and Celebrating Company Culture

The FreezeM family welcomed new and extraordinary talent in 2023, further enriching our collective vision and goals. In the face of challenging times, these remarkable individuals have demonstrated tremendous resilience, grit, and a shared determination that unites us as a team. Their strength and commitment have become a beacon of inspiration.
To showcase the vibrant culture that fuels our success, here’s a glimpse of the latest company fun day held in Tel Aviv. Meet the faces behind FreezeM and witness the collaborative spirit that drives our achievements.

6. Continued Innovation: Leading in R&D Excellence

FreezeM remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation through ongoing research and development initiatives. Two notable projects, the BSF-Israel consortium launch and collaboration with the Khalaila lab at  BGN, exemplify our commitment to advancing BSF breeding technologies. As we delve into new frontiers like genetics, FreezeM reaffirms its position as an innovation and R&D excellence leader, as stated by Nature Biotechnology magazine in its coverage of CRISPR advancements and Insect Tech.

Looking Ahead: Building on Momentum in 2023 and Embracing Change

As we step into the future, FreezeM is poised to build on the momentum of 2023. Our focus remains on growth, technological advancement, and staying at the forefront of BSF breeding innovation, making it simple for new players to enter the market. However, the excitement doesn’t stop there. We are working on a complete rebranding in response to our remarkable growth and maturity. It’s time to reflect on our evolution in a fresh, innovative way that truly captures the essence of our journey. Stay tuned as we continue to revolutionize the industry and unveil soon a brand-new identity that mirrors our commitment to excellence and sustainability.

In 2024, we plan to expand our production in Europe and Israel, creating more exciting new technologies and collaborations to enhance insect protein production globally and enable it to fulfill its potential.

Thank you for being an integral part of our story. Here’s to the memories we’ve made, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the exciting journey ahead.

With gratitude,
Yuval Gilad, CEO, FreezeM