The feed industry has long struggled with sustainability challenges; From its heavy reliance on environmental and economic resources to its environmental footprint, it has sparked growing concerns about food security and the future of livestock feeding. Although alternative solutions are still in their infancy, entrepreneurs are coming up with innovative solutions to change the game and set new standards in the industry.

One of them is Ashraf El Sharkaway, owner of Protein foodsa company of Egypt providing sustainable solutions for farmers and animal feeding systems, and ensuring food security for future generations. With the support of the EBRD, European Union (EU), Proteina is developing its line of insect-based proteins and preparing to revolutionize the pet food industry.

A legacy of entrepreneurship

Reflecting on Proteina’s beginnings, Ashraf is convinced that an “entrepreneurial virus” has run through his family for generations and has finally caught up with him.

His father had laid the foundation for Proteina, initially starting the company as a soybean production plant, which supplied protein to animal feed companies. Recognizing the significant challenges facing the industry – particularly the increasing scarcity of soybean yields and the environmental impact of traditional feed sources – Ashraf was inspired to showcase his talent for business development and to honor his father’s legacy. The virus, present in his family, sparked his idea of ​​using real insects as insect proteins.

Ashraf pursued the idea, researching, networking and exploring the viability of this innovation. He envisioned harnessing the inherent power of nature by producing protein from black soldier fly larvae, a natural substitute for more resource-intensive fish or soy meal.

Nearly eight years of development later, Ashraf and his team have persisted in perfecting their technology. “It took a lot of patience – and maybe a little stubbornness,” he reflects. “The market has finally caught up with our vision. With changing cost structures, insect proteins can now truly compete with traditional protein sources.”

“Black soldier flies are incredibly efficient at converting organic waste into protein,” Ashraf explains. “They transform plant waste into high-quality proteins, while producing organic fertilizers as a by-product. We don’t just create sustainable pet food: we operate a true circular economy.

Through Proteina, Ashraf and his team are tackling another crucial environmental challenge: waste management. The company’s mission extends beyond animal feed and aims to revolutionize the way Egypt manages its organic waste. By implementing innovative recycling techniques, they strive to teach farmers how to recycle food waste and reduce landfill use while maximizing resource recovery.

Their efforts culminated in the launch of their sister company Proteina Organics last year. The aim of this venture is to establish the first large-scale, state-of-the-art black soldier fly larvae production facility in Egypt.

Creating a habitat for the larvae is nevertheless difficult, as they require stable climatic conditions. With the support of the EBRD’s international expertise in sustainable climate control, Proteina has developed its first production facility with an innovative water-based cooling system. The company is now striving to reach its full capacity, with the aim of recovering 15 tonnes of waste per day.

Building on their success, Ashraf and his team identified the pet food market as a promising opportunity to capitalize on their innovative protein and enter the local market. With support from the EBRD and EU, Proteina expands its value chain and produces organic pet food based on sustainable insect protein.

Throughout his experience, Ashraf says he learned about himself and became passionate about crazy ideas and entrepreneurship.

“I realized that much of our success depends on finding the right people – a strong team who shares your mindset and values ​​and who can help drive the company forward. It is equally important to have a deep understanding of the business: what the value drivers are, what is important to the customer and what drives their decision-making. It’s then about focusing on that knowledge and developing those key areas. »