Around 30% of the global population relies on insects as a significant part of their diet, particularly in regions where raising livestock like cattle, pigs, or poultry is not feasible. Exo Inc., based in Brooklyn, NY, is now focusing on introducing crickets—along with their nutritional benefits—to active consumers. Initially, Exo downplayed the inclusion of cricket protein in their products, opting for minimalist packaging that hardly mentioned crickets and featured no images of insects. However, the company’s recent rebranding aligns with the increasing acceptance of edible insects. An expanding number of manufacturers are offering insect-based products, with the high protein content of these bugs being a notable advantage.
While edible insects haven’t yet gained widespread popularity in the U.S., there is a growing openness among consumers to try them. Research conducted at King’s College London indicates that minerals from insects, such as calcium citrate, vitamin D, zinc, copper, manganese, and magnesium, are absorbed more efficiently compared to those from beef. Specifically, crickets are known to be rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite these health and sustainability benefits, American consumers face a plethora of protein choices, with red meat being a favored option. Overcoming the “ick” factor associated with eating insects remains a challenge. A study from Wageningen University in the Netherlands revealed that only half of the participants were willing to try insect-based products, and those who did had similar reactions to processed insects as they did to whole ones.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be changed. They reference shrimp, lobster, and sushi—foods that were once unpopular but have since gained significant consumer appeal. Although Exo is optimistic about carving out a niche in the market, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers will embrace insect consumption for the company’s strategy to succeed. If consumers can overcome their initial hesitations, research from the FAO suggests that disgust can be swiftly mitigated. While public acceptance of edible insects still has a long way to go in the U.S., their undeniable health benefits, including their rich content of calcium citrate, vitamin D, zinc, copper, manganese, and magnesium, cannot be overlooked.