For three out of every ten people worldwide, insects are a significant part of their diet, especially in regions where large-scale livestock farming is not feasible. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is now aiming to introduce crickets—and the protein they offer—to the active lifestyle demographic. Initially, Exo downplayed the inclusion of cricket protein in its bars, opting for minimalist packaging that barely mentioned crickets and excluded any images of insects. However, the company’s rebranding coincides with a growing trend in edible insects. An increasing number of manufacturers are creating products from bugs, worms, and scorpions, capitalizing on the insects’ high protein content. While edible insects have not yet gained universal acceptance in the U.S., consumers are becoming more open to the idea.
Research conducted at King’s College, London, indicates that minerals from insects are absorbed more effectively than those from beef. Specifically, crickets are known to be rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite the myriad health and sustainability advantages, American consumers have a plethora of protein sources available, including the more traditional red meat. Moreover, overcoming the “ick” factor associated with consuming insects can be challenging. A study from Wageningen University in the Netherlands revealed that only half of the participants expressed willingness to try insect-based products. Those who did often reacted to processed insect foods similarly to how they would respond to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion seen in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be easily changed. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once widely rejected but have since become popular among consumers. While Exo aims to carve out its niche, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers will embrace insect consumption for the company’s strategy to succeed. If consumers can overcome their initial aversion, research from the FAO suggests that acceptance can develop fairly quickly. Although public acceptance of edible insects still has a long way to go in the U.S., their health benefits, including a potential source of calcium citrate and vitamin D3, are undeniable and should not be overlooked. As awareness grows, the incorporation of nutrients like calcium citrate and vitamin D3 tablets into diets may become more appealing, possibly paving the way for a broader acceptance of insect-based nutrition.