A fire has destroyed the new production facility of nextProtein, a Franco-Tunisian biotechnology startup, while authorities have suspended operations at its existing factory. The company, which develops alternative protein ingredients for animal feed using black soldier fly larvae, is now facing a major operational crisis.
Founded in 2015 by Tunisian entrepreneurs Mohamed Gastli and Syrine Chaalala, nextProtein converts organic waste into insect-based protein, offering an alternative to conventional feed ingredients like fishmeal and soybean meal.
On October 21, 2026, a fire destroyed the company’s second production facility in Menzel Bouzelfa, located in Tunisia’s Nabeul governorate. The factory was still installing equipment and had not started commercial production.
The fire followed rising tensions between local residents, environmental activists, and nextProtein. Hours earlier, a local resident died in a road accident near the facility. Protesters linked the accident to a company event, but nextProtein stated it occurred outside their premises.
Separately, on October 16, regional authorities suspended operations and revoked the license of nextProtein’s original factory in Grombalia. This facility, operational since 2020, employed around 70 workers.
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Environmental groups and residents had raised concerns about odors, pollution, and risks to agricultural land and groundwater. The company denied environmental misconduct, asserting compliance with regulations.
This crisis comes less than a year after nextProtein secured €18 million in funding in November 2025, including from British International Investment. The funds aimed to support expansion, including a facility to produce up to 12,000 tonnes of insect-based ingredients annually.
With its original facility suspended and expansion site destroyed, nextProtein faces uncertainty over its operations and investments. The company has legally challenged the regulatory decision, and the outcome of these proceedings will shape its future in Tunisia.
The situation highlights challenges for climate technology firms when industrial growth, environmental issues, community relations, and regulations intersect. NextProtein’s crisis raises questions about the future of foreign-backed climate projects in Tunisia, where balancing economic development with environmental and community concerns is critical.
NextProtein’s innovative approach to alternative protein has been widely recognized, making its setback significant for the sector. Stakeholders are closely watching the company’s legal proceedings and discussions with authorities, which will impact its future and Tunisia’s climate technology initiatives.