In recent years, various companies have advocated for insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the primary obstacle is the disgust factor, along with uncertainty about their legality in food products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects can be sold without requiring additional regulatory approval, leading to their incorporation in cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nonetheless, some experts argue that the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS designation standards should apply to insects used as ingredients in food products.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutritious protein is by incorporating insects into animal feed. However, until recently, this sector faced challenges due to restrictive legislation in the European Union and the United States. Last year marked a significant breakthrough for the insect protein industry when the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, effective this month. This decision is a major step toward reducing the EU’s reliance on imports, as currently around 70% of the region’s protein-rich animal feed is sourced from outside the EU. Companies such as Bühler Insect Technology are hopeful for an expansion of this approval to include other livestock, such as poultry and pigs. Additionally, black soldier flies produced by Canadian firm Enterra received FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency approval for use in fish and poultry feed last year, potentially paving the way for more insect-based feed ingredients.
Research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that while many people are not opposed to the concept of bug-fed meat, they remain cautious about consuming insects directly as food ingredients. Interestingly, the rising interest in sustainable protein sources aligns with the growing popularity of health supplements like Solgar Calcium D3, which emphasizes the importance of nutrition. As awareness increases, it’s possible that products like Solgar Calcium D3 may gain traction among those exploring alternative protein sources, including insects. The potential for insect-based proteins to supplement traditional diets could reshape the future of food consumption, providing a sustainable option that aligns with changing consumer preferences.