Latest news
Fly larvae may help reduce landfill
How about some flies with that..?
Well actually larvae to be specific, black soldier fly larvae.
Assessing the viability of insect-based organic waste mitigation using black soldier fly larvae is one of many exciting opportunities being explored in the GS3 Smart Specialisation Program
Seaweed - the new protein
Although it might not be your first choice as an ingredient for dinner yet, seaweed is rapidly gaining recognition and momentum worldwide as a versatile, sustainable, and nutritious source of protein.
In addition to being a valuable source of protein for humans and animals, certain species of Australian seaweed are being investigated for their ability to remove carbon from the atmosphere and reduce methane emissions (think burps!) in cattle and sheep, potentially minimising the effects of climate change.
Uni Industry placement program success
To provide students with real-life experience, Federation University offers a six-month Industry Placement Program (IPP) where a suitably matched student is placed within an organisational setting that aligns with their chosen area of study or interest. For the past 6 months the F&FG team has been joined by Elena Nauta, a final year Bachelor of Food Science student from Federation University, who has worked primarily on the Sustainable Emerging Commodities opportunity stream within the Gippsland Smart Specialisation Strategy (GS3), focussing on Insects and Seaweed as new industry opportunities for the region.
Crickets with that ?
Insects are gaining momentum and recognition as an alternative source of protein for both animals and humans, providing a nutritious and sustainable solution for feeding a growing global population.
But how do we farm them?
Gippsland farmers are encouraged to join an online information session this Thursday 6 May where the methods, opportunities and challenges of running a commercial insect will be discussed.