Merger of Brussels start-ups aims to drive popularity of insect-based snacks
Two Brussels start-ups that make snacks using insects are merging, it was announced on Tuesday. The merged company expects to reach 1 million euro turnover by 2025.
Kriket, which makes granola and sports bars based on crickets, is acquiring Yuma, which specialises in crackers and crispbreads using the same ingredient. The crickets are not visible in the products as they are first processed into powder.
Kriket's products can be found in shops such as Colruyt, Spar, Carrefour and Bio-Planet, while Yuma crackers are sold in Delhaize. “Thanks to the acquisition, Kriket is expanding its product range and increasing its distribution network to almost 2,000 outlets at home and abroad,” the company said in a press release.
Alternative protein source
The merged company is aiming for “deeper market penetration” in Belgium, with insect-based products being sold in more places such as petrol stations and offices. Launched in 2018, Kriket bars are already available in the Netherlands and the company plans to launch its products in Spain, Germany and the UK.
Kriket says its bars have seen "slow but steady growth" since the government allowed insects to be eaten around 10 years ago. “We all know by now that our protein consumption can be more sustainable, and crickets are a fantastic alternative," co-founder Anneleen Van Meervenne said in a press release.
“They use 2,000 times less water than beef, and emit 100 times less CO2 for the same amount of protein," she said. "More and more consumers are open to this, and thanks to the acquisition of Yuma, we have an extra asset to win over the doubters.”
© PHOTO BELGA HANDOUT
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