Venik
VENIK (Verenigde Nederlandse Insectenkwekers) is the Dutch trade association for the insect sector. It brings together insect breeders and other sector stakeholders to support the marketing of insects for consumption in feed and food, while representing the sector as a whole rather than the commercial interests of individual companies. The organization positions insects as an alternative protein source and a Dutch quality product that is food-safe and reared in line with General Food Law principles. It serves as a discussion partner for knowledge institutions, government, and media, and it promotes collaboration, knowledge exchange, research, and sector development across the Dutch and international markets. Core Values Collaboration : VENIK emphasizes working together across the insect chain to accelerate sector growth and strengthen the Dutch market position. Its activities are built around shared vision, mutual support, and collective action. Knowledge sharing : The association promotes exchange of expertise between companies, researchers, and institutions. It sees knowledge transfer as essential to professionalizing the sector and improving its long-term prospects. Food safety and quality : VENIK consistently frames insects as a safe, high-quality alternative protein source. It stresses compliance with General Food Law and the development of insects as a Dutch quality product. Innovation : The organization supports research, new product development, and sector innovation. It encourages the industry to evolve into a more mature and professional market. Sustainability : VENIK links insect production to circularity and more sustainable food systems. Its sector plan highlights the conversion of low-value organic side streams into valuable proteins, fats, and other products. Unique Aspects Sector-wide Dutch umbrella organization : VENIK is not a commercial producer but the national association that unites the Dutch insect sector. This gives it a broad convening role across growers, chain partners, and knowledge institutions. Focus on both feed and food : The association explicitly supports insect use in both animal feed and human food markets. That dual focus reflects the sector’s broader commercial and regulatory ambitions. Sector plan leadership : VENIK is involved in the 2025–2030 sector plan for the Dutch insect chain, which sets out a roadmap for innovation, growth, and professionalization. The plan builds on the earlier 2020–2024 sector plan and its reported progress. Policy and regulatory dialogue : VENIK highlights legislation and quality rules as major factors shaping the sector’s growth. It positions itself as a partner in discussions on removing bottlenecks and improving the conditions for large-scale insect production. Broad membership base : Since 2024, VENIK has expanded beyond insect growers to include other companies and organizations involved in the sector. This widens its network and strengthens collaboration across the value chain.