The Galinsect project offers a novel source of sustainable animal protein for aquaculture and livestock feed.

“Viability, sustainability, and prospects” are the three values that launched Galinsect, according to its CEO, Rubén Recamán. This project has been one of those selected in the second edition of the Business Factory Food acceleration program, where it benefits from the mentorship of Juanjo De la Cerda, Corporate Director of R&D and Quality at Nueva Pescanova, and Carlos Alberte, Technical Director of Viticulture at Viña Costeira.

To learn more about this initiative, which originated in Vigo, we spoke with its CEO, Rubén Recamán.

How did Galinsect come about?

Our initiative arose from the team members’ shared motivation to develop a joint project that met three conditions we all considered essential: viability, sustainability, and prospects.

Galinsect is the result of a thorough analysis, both internal—by the team itself and its resources—and external—regarding the environment, market, and economy.

What innovative contributions do you bring to the sector?

The introduction of a completely new product for aquaculture, livestock, and pet feed. Specifically, a new source of animal protein with a lower environmental impact than traditional livestock farming and, consequently, much more sustainable.

You are addressing the challenge of developing new sustainable products posed by BFFood’s driving companies. What technologies do you use for this?

Our technology is linked to the production method, in its design and methodology, and to the distribution and commercialization of the product, making use of both proprietary and external online commerce platforms.

What encouraged you to apply to BFFood?

The main reason for submitting our application to BFFood was the opportunity to connect with the business ecosystem integrated by the accelerator, which comprises major players in the Galician food industry. We believed that their experience and diversity could be of great help in launching and consolidating our project.

At BFFood, you have the mentorship of Nueva Pescanova and Viña Costeira. How has this experience been?

For us, this mentoring is the accelerator’s greatest asset, as the extensive experience of the driving companies Nueva Pescanova and Viña Costeira, as well as the profile and quality of our mentors, Juanjo De la Cerda and Carlos Alberte, far exceed our expectations. Thanks to them, we have been able to launch our project on schedule, and they are also providing us with very specific guidance on all technical, bureaucratic, logistical, and commercial aspects.

How has your relationship been with the rest of the BFFood community?

We have had some contact with other participants in the accelerator, and we believe there are many possibilities that, upon completing our time here, we will be able to reach agreements and collaborations.

Speaking of when your time at the accelerator ends, what goal have you set for your participation in BFFood?

Our main goal is to have our business model established and operational, and to be ready to commercialize our product.

We would like to be recognized for our innovative and sustainable character, and especially for our determination to make rural Galicia visible and dynamic.

Finally, would you recommend this accelerator to other entrepreneurs in the food sector?

Absolutely! BFFood will allow them to come into direct contact with the main companies in the Galician food sector and learn from their experience and knowledge. Furthermore, for new companies, the accelerator can be a great opportunity to gain market visibility.