Full Circle Biotechnology, a Singapore-based startup with operations in Thailand, has secured funding to build a 7,000-ton per year insect protein facility in Kanchanaburi, northwest of Bangkok. Construction began in mid-September 2025, and production is expected to start at the end of November 2025, according to founder Felix Collins.
The facility’s output is fully reserved by existing customers, primarily aquaculture farmers in eastern, central, and southern Thailand. Production is focused on shrimp, snakehead, and tilapia, with some niche species including swamp eel and butter catfish. The plant operates on a modular design, sourcing microbes and young larvae from contractors and outsourcing certain steps, such as pellet coating. Full vertical integration is planned from 2026.
The company did not disclose funding or valuation but confirmed investors include venture firm Rypples, family offices, and high net worth individuals, through a combination of equity and non-dilutive financing. Full Circle Biotechnology owns and operates the Kanchanaburi facility, emphasizing semi-automated processes. Collins explained that avoiding full automation reduces capital expenditure while maintaining quality assurance and requires fewer staff, which is suitable for an early-stage operation.
The protein meal combines black soldier fly larvae and microbial protein produced via solid-state fermentation using agricultural and food industry byproducts, such as cassava pulp. The feed can replace up to 75% of fishmeal in aquaculture. Unlike most processors, the company does not defat the biomass; processing is limited to grinding, sterilization, and low-temperature drying. This approach preserves protein quality while producing a consistent range of protein grades, including fishmeal-grade material exceeding 70% protein dry matter with a favorable amino acid profile.
The final golden-brown protein meal is incorporated into pellets at a 15% inclusion rate and distributed directly to farmers, supporting efficient substitution of fishmeal and addressing growing local demand for sustainable aquaculture feed.
(Source: nutriNews)
