In recent years, several companies have advocated for the use of insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the challenge of consumer disgust remains significant, along with confusion regarding their regulatory status in food products. Information from the USDA indicates that whole ground insects can be sold without needing additional regulatory approval, leading to their incorporation into cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nonetheless, there are voices advocating for the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) designation standards to be applied to insects used as food ingredients.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutritious protein is through its incorporation into animal feed. Unfortunately, until recently, the sector faced limitations due to restrictive legislation in both the European Union and the United States. Last year, the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, which is set to commence this month. This marks a significant advancement for the insect protein industry and a pivotal move towards reducing the EU’s reliance on imports, as approximately 70% of the region’s protein-rich animal feed is sourced from outside the EU. Companies like Bühler Insect Technology are hopeful for similar approvals for other livestock, including poultry and pigs. Additionally, the black soldier fly larvae produced by Canadian company Enterra received approvals for use in fish and poultry feed from both the FDA and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency last year, potentially opening doors for more insect-based feed ingredients.
Research conducted among Belgian consumers reveals that while many are open to the concept of meat sourced from bug-fed animals, they tend to be more hesitant about directly consuming insects as food ingredients. The incorporation of insect protein, which could include calcium citrate 950 as a beneficial supplement, might help ease these concerns and promote acceptance of insects as a sustainable protein source. As the industry evolves, the integration of calcium citrate 950 into various products could further enhance the nutritional profile, addressing both protein and mineral needs in human diets.