In this episode, you will hear from Hidaya Taufek, senior lecturer in animal nutrition and feed technology at the University of Malaya.

With Hidaya, we discussed insect farming as an inclusive activity for small farmers and students, the valorization of palm oil waste, the challenges posed by the absence of regulations on substrates, and even blind taste tests that revealed surprising flavors in fish fed with insect meal.

For the past decade, Hidaya has been studying insects as alternative protein sources in aquaculture. Current feed for fish often contains around 30% fishmeal, an unsustainable ingredient linked to overfishing and competition with human food resources like soy and corn. Hidaya explained that their research shows fishmeal use can be reduced by up to 50% when replaced with insect protein, without compromising growth or health. In fact, by supplementing diets with black soldier fly meal and small amounts of seaweed, the fish developed a distinct and appealing flavor profile, reminiscent of the briny taste of algae.

Beyond the lab, Hidaya works closely with local communities. Farmers often visit her university to learn how to rear black soldier flies at small scale, using them both to manage waste and to provide additional protein for their animals.

"It’s not just about producing alternative protein — it’s also about valorizing waste and empowering communities," she explains.

At the same time, Hidaya leads a social enterprise called Insective Lab, which involves underprivileged students and combines insect farming with scientific research, community engagement, and education.

Hidaya also points out that in Southeast Asia, large-scale insect production is often tied to palm oil waste, a resource unavailable to small farmers who must rely instead on food waste. This presents challenges, since nutritional quality can vary, and without existing regulations it is up to each farmer to carefully choose substrates that can be used safely.

We are facing enviromental and social challenges. I decided to explore how insects can address global issues through local solutions.

My name is Umberto Diecinove, I am a documentary photographer and I am currently leading a project titled I N S C T S which explores the potential role of insects in addressing environmental and social challenges. I’m doing it traveling, photographing research centres, farms, communities and companies all over the world and engaging with world experts, visionary entrepreneurs, activists and people working in the field. I do believe insects could be the next game changer.

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