Abu Dhabi-based agritech startup Circa Biotech has received the esteemed Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award (SKEAUAE), recognizing its innovative work in converting organic food waste into valuable animal feed. The award highlights the company’s significant contribution to the UAE’s sustainability, food security, and biotechnology sectors.
Quick Facts
- Award: Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award (SKEAUAE)
- Focus: Upcycling organic waste with insects
- Impact: Bolstering UAE’s food security and sustainability
Tackling the UAE’s Food Waste Challenge
Circa Biotech’s recognition comes as the UAE accelerates its efforts to achieve national food security and circular economy goals. By diverting organic waste from landfills, the startup addresses a critical environmental challenge while creating a local, sustainable source of animal feed protein.
The company, an alumnus of Sharjah-based incubator Sheraa, is pioneering a model that directly supports the region’s ambitions to build more resilient and self-sufficient food systems.
From Waste to Feed: The Black Soldier Fly Model
At the core of Circa Biotech’s operation is the Black Soldier Fly. The startup has developed the UAE’s first insect farm dedicated to this process, where these flies upcycle discarded organic materials.
The larvae consume the food waste and convert it into high-quality protein and fats. These products are then processed into sustainable feed for the poultry and aquaculture industries, providing a nutrient-rich alternative to traditional, often imported, feed sources.
About Circa Biotech
Circa Biotech is the UAE’s first and only organic waste management plant powered by the Black Soldier Fly. The company diverts organic waste from landfills and upcycles it to produce high-quality protein suitable for poultry and farmed fish. Founded in 2020, the startup is headquartered in Abu Dhabi.
Source: Sheraa
