BPPT to turn worm into protein

JAKARTA (JP): The Biotech Center, a unit of the state Agency for the Research and Application of Technology (BPPT), has agreed to develop technology to turn earthworms into amino acid or protein used in food, drink, and cosmetics.

Agri-industry producer PT Qurnia Subur Alam Raya signed a memorandum of understanding on Monday commissioning the center to produce protein out of amino acids from earthworm species (Lumbricus rubellus).

The process would be conducted from BPPT's laboratory and facility in Serpong, Tangerang, according to the agreement signed by Alam Raya president Ramli Araby and the center's director, Koesnandar. State Minister of Research and Technology Muh. A.S. Hikam, who also chairs the BPPT, witnessed the signing.

Alam Raya has invested Rp 2 billion (US$ 210,526) for the initial production of nine tons of amino acid, Ramli said, adding that the earthworm would be supplied by 3,500 farmers in West Java.

Alam Raya's main line of business includes producing chili, ginger, mushrooms, tomatoes, potatoes and lettuce from a 2,600 hectare area in West Java. (03)