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 “disgust factor” poses a significant challenge, along with uncertainty regarding their regulatory status in food products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects may be sold without requiring additional regulatory approval, leading to their incorporation into cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nevertheless, some experts argue that the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) standards should apply to insects when used as ingredients.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutrient-rich protein is through the inclusion of insects in animal feed. Up until recently, this sector faced challenges due to restrictive legislation in both the European Union and the United States. However, last year marked a significant breakthrough when the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, effective this month. This development is a substantial advancement for the insect protein industry and an important step toward 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 that this approval will extend to other animals, including poultry and pigs. Additionally, the Canadian firm Enterra’s black soldier flies received FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency approval for use in fish and poultry feed last year, potentially opening the door for more insect-based feed ingredients.
Research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that while many are open to the concept of meat sourced from bug-fed animals, they tend to be more hesitant about consuming insects directly as food ingredients. In light of these developments, it is interesting to note that products like bluebonnet liquid calcium magnesium citrate, which offer nutritional benefits, could potentially complement the growing interest in alternative protein sources, including insects. As the market evolves, the integration of such products with insect protein may provide consumers with additional options for incorporating sustainable nutrition into their diets.