A World First: Finnish Companies Launch Rainbow Trout Products Raised on Volare Protein
Finnish consumers will be the first in the world to enjoy rainbow trout raised in a new, sustainable way. For the first time ever, insect protein has been used as part of the feed in a commercial production of rainbow trout. This limited-edition product—Kalaonni Arkinen rainbow trout fillet—will be available for just two weeks and brings a delicious, responsibly farmed fish to dinner tables across Finland. It’s the result of a pioneering collaboration between four Finnish companies.
Global Debut of Insect-Based Trout Hits Stores This April
This cooperation is unique in the aquaculture industry, encompassing nearly the entire value chain: ingredient supplier, feed producer, fish farmer, wholesaler, retailer—and finally the consumer. In 2024, these companies conducted a global first trial where conventional feed ingredients were partially replaced with insect protein, and the resulting fish is now being released as a special edition product.
The trout were raised in Taivalkoski by Kalankasvatus Vääräniemi, with Kalavapriikki responsible for bringing the products to market. The collaboration also includes insect protein producer Volare and Finland’s only fish feed manufacturer, Alltech Fennoaqua.
“Our customers value sustainable choices, but above all, the food must be high-quality and tasty. We’re proud to offer something new and exciting to Finnish consumers,” says Jari Korhonen, CEO of Kalavapriikki.
The special edition Kalaonni Arkinen rainbow trout fillets will be available in stores across Finland starting April 7, 2025. Look for fillets marked with the batch number starting with TRR74.
Insect Protein: A Sustainable and Domestic Alternative for Aquafeeds
Volare produces insect protein powder by upcycling side streams from the food industry.
“Insects are a natural part of salmonids’ diet, and Volare’s unique production process is energy-efficient, fossil-free, and produces zero waste,” highlights Jarna Hyvönen, Chief Commercial Officer at Volare.
Feed ingredients play a crucial role in reducing the environmental footprint of aquaculture. Volare’s circular approach keeps valuable nutrients in the food system—replacing imported protein concentrates with a low-footprint, locally produced alternative.
From Pilot to Long-Term Partnership
Currently, Volare is producing insect protein at its pilot facility in Hyvinkää and is planning its first full-scale industrial plant in Finland. The realization of this larger facility will enable a significant expansion of partnerships.
“It’s extremely important for us to help move the industry forward sustainably. We’re committed to supporting the development of future-proof ingredients and scaling up Finnish startups like Volare,” says Tomi Kantola, CEO of Alltech Fennoaqua.
“In the future, insect protein could become a key part of sustainable, circular aquafeeds. In Volare’s case, the ingredient is also locally sourced—something we strongly support. Local sourcing not only benefits the environment but also strengthens food self-sufficiency and employment in Finland,” Kantola adds.
Contact Information
Alltech Fennoaqua
Tomi Kantola, CEO
Phone: +358 50 653 04
Email: tomi.kantola@fennoaqua.com
Volare
Jarna Hyvönen, Chief Commercial Officer
Phone: +358 50 530 2965
Email: jarna@volare.fi
Kalankasvatus Vääräniemi
Kari Vääräniemi, CEO
Phone: +358 40 720 9392
Email: kari@vaaraniemi.net
Kalavapriikki
Jari Korhonen, CEO
Phone: +358 50 543 8163
Email: jari.korhonen@kalavapriikki.fi
