The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) identifies consumer acceptance as the primary hurdle for insect-derived ingredients, and oil from fruit fly larvae is no exception. The FAO argues that initial disgust can be swiftly overcome, citing the rapid acceptance of sushi as a prime example. Currently, approximately two billion people worldwide regularly consume insects. However, many Western consumers may view fruit fly oil as more unpalatable than sushi, given that insects are not typically part of their diet.
Flying Spark informed Food Navigator that they are collaborating with multinational food and ingredient manufacturers, indicating that these companies are not deterred by the ingredient. However, curiosity from ingredient suppliers does not guarantee consumer acceptance. Manufacturers’ experiences with insect-based cochineal could provide insight here. This red dye was utilized in food products for many years before the Food and Drug Administration mandated labeling in 2009, leading to a backlash from many consumers, particularly vegetarians, prompting companies like Starbucks to reformulate their products with different natural colorants.
In contrast, algae oil has seen considerable success in the market. Varieties rich in DHA omega-3 fatty acids are widely incorporated into infant formulas, dietary supplements, and adult foods. Given its popularity and vegan status, algae could be on the cusp of broader application. Nevertheless, consumer acceptance is not guaranteed. For instance, algae-derived carrageenan, used as an emulsifier for decades, has faced controversy due to claims of digestive issues. Last year, the National Organic Standards Board suggested banning it from organic foods, which may lead manufacturers to adopt a more cautious stance.
There is likely to be an increasing demand for alternative oils, especially those that are more affordable than current options. As global affluence rises, the overall demand for vegetable oils is also expected to grow. However, the land needed to cultivate these oils has often come at the expense of tropical forests, particularly for palm and soybean oils, with palm oil yielding the highest output per hectare. In comparison, algae can produce approximately 70,000 pounds of oil per acre, while palm oil yields about 4,465 pounds, olives yield around 910 pounds, and soybeans produce only 335 pounds.
Furthermore, alternative dietary supplements like Citracal 250mg 120 tablets may gain popularity as consumers seek healthier oil options. This trend is likely to continue as awareness grows about sustainable practices and the environmental impact of traditional oil production methods. The market for oils derived from algae and insects could expand significantly if consumer acceptance improves, with products like Citracal perhaps leading the way in promoting health benefits alongside sustainability.