|
Forecast Period
|
2025-2029
|
|
Market Size (2023)
|
USD 96.11 Million
|
|
Market Size (2029)
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USD 135.27 Million
|
|
CAGR (2024-2029)
|
5.94%
|
|
Fastest Growing Segment
|
Solid
|
|
Largest Market
|
North America
|
Market Overview
Global Frass Fertilizer Market was valued at USD 96.11
Million in 2023 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast
period with a CAGR of 5.94% through 2029. The frass fertilizer market is
influenced by several drivers that contribute to its growth and development
such as the rise of the organic food business, increasing awareness about the
use of insects to convert waste into organic fertilizer, and increased waste
output from the restaurant, farm, and food & beverage industries.
There is a rising global preference for organic and sustainable agricultural methods. Frass fertilizers are recognized as an environmentally friendly and natural substitute for conventional chemical fertilizers. With consumers and farmers increasingly mindful of environmental issues and seeking sustainable farming techniques, the demand for insect-based fertilizers is projected to grow. Insects such as black soldier flies, mealworms, and crickets are abundant in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, crucial for plant development. Insect-based fertilizers provide a natural source of these nutrients while also enhancing soil health. As awareness of the nutritional advantages of insect-based products expands, so does the demand for frass fertilizers.
Governments worldwide are implementing policies and regulations to encourage sustainable agricultural practices. This includes promoting the use of organic fertilizers and reducing reliance on chemical alternatives. Government support through funding, subsidies, and awareness initiatives plays a significant role in driving the adoption of frass fertilizers.
Key Market Drivers
Increasing Adoption of Insect-Based Fertilizers in
Farming
Globally, there is significant interest in
employing insect larvae to recycle organic waste into high-quality frass
fertilizer using a circular economy strategy. All bug species' frass
fertilizers have an acceptable number of macronutrients [nitrogen (N), phosphorus
(P), potassium (K), secondary nutrients (calcium, magnesium, and sulphur), and
micronutrients (manganese, copper, iron, zinc, boron, and sodium).
Insects' employment as bio-converters of low-value
organic materials into economical and high-quality food, feed, fibre, and
organic fertilizer products has gained widespread interest.
For instance, the French Agency for Food,
Environmental, and Occupational Health and Safety, ANSES, granted Ÿnsect, the permission
for its natural frass fertilizer, ŸnFrass in 2020. The mealworm Tenebrio
Molitor, which feeds on cereal by-products at the Ÿnsect plant in Dole
(France), produces insect waste or frass, which is used to make
fertilizer. The product, known as "ŸnFrass,"
was developed over the course of four years by "Ÿnsect" and several
esteemed universities. It is currently compliant with regulation No. 384/2007
and can be used in organic farming. One of the most well-known European wine brands,
Torres, and Compo Group, a leader in plant nutrition for amateur gardeners, are
among Frass's initial clients.
Declining Food Production due to Soil Degradation
Most places across the world have high levels of
hunger and food insecurity, and the situation is worsening owing to increased
soil degradation. In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), for example, there are
significant problems to environmental health and food and nutrition security. Approximately
40% of soils in SSA are lacking in the majority of nutrients essential for
agricultural growth, with 25% impacted by aluminum toxicity, 18% susceptible to
leaching, and 8.5% characterized by phosphorus fixation. Despite the
difficulties, most smallholder farmers use little (≤ 10 kg ha−1 year−1) or no
mineral fertilizer due to the high costs and restricted access. Even when
mineral fertilizers are extensively utilized, their effectiveness is hampered
by poor soil organic matter, micronutrient shortages, and excessive soil
acidity. Although farmers find organic fertilizer to be acceptable and
economical, there has been minimal uptake in SSA due to low quality, extended
production times, and a lack of organic materials on the farm. As a result,
there is a need to investigate alternate sources of organic fertilizers that
are widely available, inexpensive, and of high quality, such as frass
fertilizer which qualifies the criteria of a nutrient-rich ideal fertilizer.
Insect mass rearing utilizing organic waste might
help SSA overcome the issues of inadequate waste management and low soil
fertility. Organic waste bioconversion by insects into organic fertilizers
might prevent land filling and return nutrients to agricultural regions. The bioconversion of organic waste into
high-value commercial goods is a positive step towards long-term waste
recycling, with the revenue and other non-monetary advantages serving as
incentives for better waste management and a circular economy. For example, H.
illucens larvae have been shown to recycle organic wastes into
nutrient-rich mature and stable frass fertilizer in about 5 weeks, compared to
8-24 weeks for standard composting. Ex-ante macroeconomic calculations in Kenya
show that using insect bioconversion technology may recycle between 2 and 18
million tonnes of garbage into organic fertilizer worth 9-85 million USD each
year.
Rising Cost of Organic Fertilizers
Frass fertilizer is often derived from the
excrement of insects that are raised on organic waste materials or agricultural
byproducts. By utilizing these waste materials as feedstock, frass fertilizer
production can help reduce waste disposal costs for industries or farmers. This
can contribute to overall cost savings and make frass fertilizer a
cost-effective option among the use of other types of organic fertilizers.
By selling organic fertilizer as a byproduct of BSF
rearing, the frass fertilizer produced have both improve income from insect
farming and spare the farmer from he expense of purchasing costly fertilizer.
Frass fertilizer can be a cost-effective
alternative to traditional fertilizers because it provides a concentrated
source of nutrients. As a result, farmers require smaller quantities of frass
fertilizer compared to conventional fertilizers to achieve the same nutrient
levels in the soil. This can lead to cost savings in terms of lower input
costs. Since producers and dealers are likely to prefer
shipping restricted goods to larger customers, relatively smaller
markets—especially many African countries—face a challenge for the availability
of fertilizers. Given that Africa still only uses a small number of
fertilizers—an estimated average of 25 kilogrammes per hectare, which is less
than the 121 kg/ha used globally—a drop in fertilizer use would result in a
major decline in productivity for the continent, which might have serious
implications for food security. Thus, the need for fertilizer production and to
lower the dependency on export is important for low-income country, the use of
frass fertilizer is expected to increase as the large-scale insect farms
benefit from economies of scale, which can help reduce production costs per
unit of frass fertilizer. Smaller-scale operations may face higher production
costs due to limitations in economies of scale. However, advancements in insect
farming techniques and automation can help increase efficiency and lower costs
even for smaller operations.
Hunger and Food Insecurity Among Low-Income
Countries
The production of human food and/or fuel is
increasingly competing with the production of animal feed for resources (land,
water, and fertilizers). This increases the pressure on the environment (such
as on water supplies, deforestation, or soil degradation in developing
nations). The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimates that the
world's food output will need to expand by 70% by 2050, mostly to feed a
population that is predicted to exceed 9.1 billion people.
Organic fertilizer made from insect frass is one
potential soil enhancement that is gaining popularity. An increasing concern is
the industrial-scale breeding of insects for human consumption and animal feed,
which generates a sizable amount of organic waste as a byproduct.
With more than 50 million tonnes of meat produced
annually, Europe is the third largest producer of poultry in the world,
according to the Association of Poultry Processors and Poultry Trade in the EU
Countries.
The International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF), the umbrella association of the European insect sector based in Brussels, has published Commission Regulation (EU) 2021/1372 in the Official Journal of the European Union. This regulation permits the use of processed animal proteins derived from insects (insect PAPs) in poultry and pig feed. Additionally, Regulation (EU) 2021/1925, adopted on November 29, 2021, outlines the EU's minimum requirements for the production and marketing of insect frass as an organic fertilizer. The harmonization of processing requirements across Member States is primarily achieved through the development of EU standards for insect frass. Operators across the EU seeking authorization from their national competent authorities to utilize insect frass as organic fertilizer must now adhere to the time/temperature norms and other standards specified in Regulation (EU) 2021/1925. Consequently, European countries are anticipated to become extensive users of frass fertilizer compared to other nations.
For instance, a biofertilizer derived 100% from Tenebrio
molitor called oFrass is extensively used in organic farming. Depending on
the demands of the farmer, frass is sold as powder or as pellets, two forms
that make application easier.
European Commission itself supports its usage in
food production by its inclusion on the Union's list of new foods. Thus, increasing
investment in organic farming and practice of using frass fertilizer can
contribute to sustainable agriculture practices, environmental conservation,
and improved food production.
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Key Market Challenges
Price Competitiveness & Cost-Efficiency
A significant challenge hindering the growth of the
global Frass fertilizer market is the need to maintain price competitiveness
and ensure cost-efficiency relative to conventional chemical fertilizers. While
Frass fertilizer offers numerous benefits such as improved soil health,
enhanced nutrient uptake, and reduced environmental impact, its production
costs may be higher compared to synthetic fertilizers due to factors such as
insect rearing, processing, and packaging expenses. As a result, farmers and agricultural
stakeholders may be hesitant to adopt Frass fertilizer if it is perceived as
too expensive or cost-prohibitive relative to conventional alternatives.
Market Fragmentation and Competition
Market fragmentation and intense competition pose
significant challenges to the growth of the global Frass fertilizer market,
creating obstacles for market penetration and expansion efforts. The
agricultural inputs industry is highly diverse and dynamic, characterized by a
multitude of players offering a wide range of products and solutions to meet
the needs of farmers and growers worldwide. Established players in the
industry, including multinational corporations and well-established brands,
have established strong footholds and brand recognition within the market,
making it difficult for newer entrants such as Frass fertilizer to gain
traction and capture market share.
Moreover, the agricultural inputs market is
inundated with a plethora of alternative products and solutions that compete
directly with Frass fertilizer for market share. Organic fertilizers,
bio-stimulants, and soil amendments represent formidable competitors, each
offering unique advantages and value propositions that appeal to different
segments of the agricultural community. Organic fertilizers, for example, are
prized for their natural and sustainable qualities, while bio-stimulants are
valued for their ability to enhance plant growth and productivity through
biological mechanisms. Soil amendments, on the other hand, focus on improving
soil health and fertility through the addition of organic matter and beneficial
microorganisms.
Furthermore, the presence of a diverse array of
players in the agricultural inputs market, ranging from multinational
corporations to small-scale producers and distributors, further exacerbates
market fragmentation and intensifies pricing pressures. Larger companies with
extensive resources and distribution networks may enjoy economies of scale and
pricing advantages, allowing them to undercut smaller competitors and dominate
market segments. Conversely, smaller producers and distributors may struggle to
compete on price and scale, limiting their ability to penetrate markets and
reach target customers effectively.
Key Market Trends
Increasing Demand for Sustainable Agriculture
Practices
One of the primary trends driving the expansion of
the global Frass fertilizer market is the increasing demand for sustainable
agriculture practices. As concerns about environmental degradation, soil
health, and food safety continue to mount, farmers and growers worldwide are
seeking alternative solutions that promote ecological balance, minimize
chemical inputs, and enhance long-term sustainability in agricultural
production. Frass fertilizer, derived from insect excrement, offers a natural
and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers, providing
essential nutrients and promoting soil fertility while minimizing environmental
impact.
The growing emphasis on sustainability in
agriculture is fueled by various factors, including consumer preferences for
organic and eco-friendly products, regulatory initiatives promoting
environmentally friendly farming practices, and the recognition of the role of
agriculture in mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. Frass
fertilizer aligns with these sustainability goals by offering a renewable and
biodegradable source of plant nutrients that promotes soil health, enhances
crop resilience, and reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals.
Technological Advancements in Frass Fertilizer
Production and Application
A significant trend propelling the growth of the
global Frass fertilizer market is the ongoing technological advancements in
Frass fertilizer production and application methods. As the demand for
sustainable agriculture practices continues to rise, there is increasing
emphasis on innovation and technology-driven solutions to enhance the
efficiency, efficacy, and scalability of Frass fertilizer production and
utilization.
Technological advancements in Frass fertilizer
production encompass various aspects, including insect farming techniques,
processing methods, and quality control measures. Advanced insect rearing
technologies, such as automated feeding systems, climate-controlled
environments, and optimized breeding protocols, can significantly increase
insect biomass production and improve the overall efficiency of Frass
fertilizer production. Similarly, innovations in processing and formulation
technologies can enhance the nutrient content, consistency, and shelf life of
Frass fertilizer products, ensuring optimal performance and quality for
end-users.
Segmental Insights
Type Insights
Based on the type, soldier
flies stand out as the dominant type in the global market. Soldier Flies have
gained prominence due to their efficient conversion of organic waste into
nutrient-rich Frass, making them highly suitable for large-scale commercial
production of Frass fertilizer.
Soldier Flies are prized
for their voracious appetite and rapid growth rates, allowing them to consume
significant quantities of organic matter and produce Frass efficiently. Their
ability to thrive on a wide range of organic substrates, including food waste,
agricultural residues, and livestock manure, makes them versatile and adaptable
to diverse production environments. Additionally, Soldier Flies are relatively low
maintenance compared to other insect species, requiring minimal care and
attention during the rearing process.
Furthermore, soldier fly
frass exhibits excellent nutrient composition and microbial diversity, making
it a valuable soil amendment and plant growth promoter. Rich in essential
nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, Soldier Fly Frass
provides plants with the necessary elements for healthy growth and development.
Moreover, the presence of beneficial microorganisms in Soldier Fly Frass
enhances soil fertility and promotes soil health, improving nutrient cycling
and microbial activity in the soil ecosystem.
Form Insights
Based on the form segment, solid
extracts are dominating the global Frass fertilizer market. Solid Frass
fertilizer extracts are favoured for their ease of handling, storage, and
application, making them a practical choice for farmers and growers worldwide.
Solid Frass extracts are typically available in granular or pelletized forms,
making them convenient to transport, store, and distribute.
Solid Frass
extracts offer excellent nutrient content and microbial diversity, providing
plants with a balanced blend of essential nutrients and beneficial
microorganisms that promote soil health and plant growth. The solid form of
Frass fertilizer allows for slow-release nutrient availability, ensuring
sustained nutrient uptake by plants over time, thereby reducing the need for
frequent reapplication and enhancing efficiency in nutrient utilization.
Solid Frass
extracts are compatible with various application methods, including
broadcasting, top-dressing, and incorporation into the soil, making them
versatile and adaptable to different farming systems and crop types. Farmers
and growers can easily integrate solid Frass extracts into their existing
fertilizer management practices, enhancing soil fertility, improving crop
yields, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
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Regional Insights
North America is currently dominating the global
Frass fertilizer market. This dominance can be attributed to several factors
that contribute to the region's significant market share and influence in the
Frass fertilizer industry.
North America has a well-established agricultural
sector with a high level of awareness and adoption of sustainable agriculture
practices. Farmers and growers in North America are increasingly turning to
organic and eco-friendly alternatives to conventional fertilizers, driving
demand for products like Frass fertilizer that offer natural and sustainable
solutions for soil health and crop nutrition.
North America is home to a thriving insect farming
industry, particularly in countries such as the United States and Canada, where
innovative companies are pioneering the production of Frass fertilizer on a
commercial scale. The availability of advanced technologies, research
institutions, and supportive regulatory frameworks in North America has
facilitated the development and commercialization of Frass fertilizer products,
enabling the region to maintain its leadership position in the global market.
Recent Developments
- In September 2023, a biotechnology
company called Nutrition Technologies, which specializes in bio-fertilizers and
sustainable components for animal feed, has introduced Vitalis, a liquid
bio-fertilizer made from Black Soldier Fly (BSF) frass. With the goal of
providing an environmentally benign substitute for traditional soil treatments
and plant protection techniques, the patent-pending solution combines fermented
BSF frass, extra chitin, and a microbial inoculant.
Key Market Players
- Ÿnsect SAS
- Protix B.V.
- Enterra Feed Corporation
- InnovaFeed SAS
- EnviroFlight, LLC
- Nutrition Technologies Group
- Entomo Farms
- nextProtein
- Hexafly
- Protenga Pte. Ltd.
|
By Type
|
By Form
|
By Application
|
By Region
|
- Soldier Flies
- Mealworms
- Crickets
- Buffalo Worms
- Others
|
|
- Cereals & Grains
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Others
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- North America
- Europe
- Asia Pacific
- South America
- Middle East & Africa
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Report Scope:
In this report, the Global Frass Fertilizer Market has
been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry
trends which have also been detailed below:
- Frass Fertilizer Market, By Type:
o Soldier Flies
o Mealworms
o Crickets
o Buffalo Worms
o Others
- Frass Fertilizer Market, By Form:
o Solid
o Liquid Extracts
- Frass Fertilizer Market, By Application:
o Cereals & Grains
o Fruits
o Vegetables
o Others
- Frass Fertilizer Market, By
Region:
o North America
§ United States
§ Canada
§ Mexico
o Europe
§ France
§ United Kingdom
§ Italy
§ Germany
§ Spain
o Asia-Pacific
§ China
§ India
§ Japan
§ Australia
§ South Korea
o South America
§ Brazil
§ Argentina
§ Colombia
o Middle East & Africa
§ South Africa
§ Saudi Arabia
§ UAE
Competitive Landscape
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies
present in the Global Frass Fertilizer Market.
Available Customizations:
Global Frass Fertilizer market report with
the given market data, Tech Sci Research offers customizations according to a
company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for
the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and
profiling of additional market players (up to five).
Global Frass Fertilizer Market is an upcoming
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