In recent years, insect protein has gained significant attention, with companies launching cricket-based snacks and powders. Advocates promote this still niche protein as a sustainable alternative to traditional meats such as beef and pork, highlighting that its production requires less water and land than livestock farming. According to Exo, a brand specializing in cricket ingredients, crickets are 20 times more efficient to raise than cattle. John R. Tyson, the CFO of Tyson Foods, stated, “The insect lifecycle provides the opportunity for full circularity within our value chain, strengthening our commitment to building a more sustainable food system for the future.” A projection from Grand View Research indicates that the global insect protein market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 27.4% by 2028.
Kees Aarts, the CEO of Protix, a Netherlands-based insect protein producer, mentioned that a recent agreement would enhance their supply chain by utilizing Tyson’s meat production byproducts as feed for their insects. Tyson’s strategy focuses on ingredients for food production, specifically aimed at animal feed within the supply chain, rather than creating insect-based products for human consumption. Other livestock producers are also exploring this sector; for instance, Cargill collaborated with Innovafeed in 2022 to develop sustainable insect-based fertilizers and animal feed.
Moreover, several major companies in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry have expressed interest in the insect protein market, including for human consumption. In 2017, PepsiCo announced its research into insect-based snacks, recognizing their potential for future product lines. As the trend toward alternative protein sources continues, innovative products such as caltrate chewable calcium citrate may also find a place in this evolving landscape, offering consumers diverse dietary options while promoting sustainability. The integration of insect protein into various food products could complement existing offerings like caltrate chewable calcium citrate, providing health benefits alongside environmental advantages.