Group 1 - The first China International Mealworm Industry Conference highlighted the strategic significance of developing the insect protein industry, represented by mealworms, for ensuring feed grain supply security and building a diversified food supply system in China [1][2] - The former Vice Minister of Commerce, Chong Quan, emphasized the potential of the insect protein industry as a new food source amid increasing geopolitical conflicts and international trade frictions, aligning with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization's push for insect protein alternatives [1][2] - The mealworm industry is recognized as a green emerging industry with ecological recycling value and high added economic potential, capable of efficiently utilizing agricultural organic waste and providing high-quality protein and unsaturated fatty acids for various sectors including feed, food, biomedicine, and cosmetics [1] Group 2 - Adriana Casillas, President of the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF), praised the mealworm farming model in Dingtao, China, as a successful global example, highlighting the importance of technology leadership, collaboration between companies and farmers, and government support [2] - The conference included the establishment of the National Mealworm Industry Alliance and the signing of cooperation agreements between Dingtao District Government and various research and industry organizations [2] - The event was attended by over 200 industry representatives from across the country and more than 10 countries, culminating in the release of the "Beijing Initiative for Global Mealworm Industry Development" [2]

Core Viewpoint - The development of the insect protein industry is seen as a necessary choice to expand food resource boundaries and promote agricultural transformation and upgrading in the context of global protein resource shortages and environmental pressures [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Development - The insect protein industry is crucial for addressing global protein resource shortages and promoting sustainable development [1]. - The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences emphasizes the importance of strategic layout in the resource insect industry, focusing on key technology breakthroughs and integrating production, learning, research, and application [2]. - The conference aims to build a high-level international exchange platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies and innovative products, effectively linking production and market, and accelerating the scale and standardization of the resource insect industry [2]. Group 2: Recommendations for Growth - Strengthening research and innovation on insect species is essential for fundamentally advancing the insect protein industry [1]. - Enhancing the industrialized breeding processes and levels is necessary to promote a transformation in production models [1]. - Expanding high-value application scenarios will improve the competitiveness of the entire industry chain, positioning the insect protein industry as a new force for food security and rural revitalization [1].