The Rise of Mealworms in Vitamin D3 Production: A Sustainable Alternative

In a world where nutritional supplementation is increasingly essential, the potential of mealworms as a source of vitamin D3 is generating considerable interest. French startup Nutriearth is pioneering this innovative approach, citing the challenges faced when using mealworms for bulk protein procurement.

Vitamin D3: The Sunshine Vitamin

According to Jeremy Burks, CEO of Nutriearth, vitamin D3, or cholecalciferol, is the primary form of vitamin D found in dietary supplements. This compound is naturally synthesized by humans and some animals when UV-B light transforms a sterol called 7-DHC in the skin into “pre-vitamin D3,” which then converts to cholecalciferol. Unfortunately, due to limited sun exposure in modern lifestyles, vitamin D deficiency remains a widespread issue, even in sunny regions. As a result, there is a growing market for what is popularly referred to as the “sunshine vitamin.”

A Break from Tradition: Mealworm-Derived Vitamin D3

Traditionally, most vitamin D3 is derived from lanolin, an oily substance obtained from sheep’s wool, which undergoes complex chemical processes predominantly in countries like China and India. Burks emphasizes that mealworms, by their very nature, contain the necessary sterol backbone. This allows UV-B light to convert their internal compounds directly into vitamin D3, making the process more sustainable and chemical-free.

Innovative Product Development

Nutriearth’s two-pronged approach to creating vitamin D3 involves:

• Insect Flour: By exposing ground mealworm larvae to light, Nutriearth produces a protein-rich flour infused with vitamin D3. This flour can be integrated into various food applications without altering taste or texture.
• Insect Oil: The second method utilizes insect oil, which contains vitamin D precursors. After light exposure, this oil is targeted toward the dietary supplements market.

Notably, both products avoid costly extraction methods, making them economically viable.

Regulatory Progress and Market Potential

Nutriearth has received novel food authorization for its flour in the EU, with an ongoing dossier for the oil. The startup also boasts approvals from Health Canada and self-GRAS status in the United States, collaborating with distributor AIDP for their market entry in North America.

A New Era in Nutrition

With clean rooms and dedicated facilities, Nutriearth can now produce enough to meet the needs of over 50 million people daily. Burks notes the untapped potential for vitamin D3 derived from mealworms, catering to evolving consumer preferences for natural products. Excitingly, upcoming animal studies suggest that Nutriearth’s vitamin D3 is more readily absorbed than traditional lanolin-sourced vitamin D3.

Investment and Future Goals

Founded in 2017 by Thomas Dormigny and Jérémy Defrize, Nutriearth raised €8 million (approximately $9.3 million) in July 2024, with plans for further funding. Burks asserts, “We’ve completed our CapEx and R&D, and have secured critical regulatory approvals, significantly de-risking the business.”

Confronting Challenges Ahead

Despite these advancements, Burks acknowledges the complexities of entering a new market. “Just when you think you have one challenge solved, another arises,” he explains. However, Nutriearth is committed to overcoming obstacles and redefining how we think about organic nutrition.

Further Reading: For insights on the potential of bio-based vitamin A compared to its petrochemical counterpart, explore Capra Biosciences’ perspective.