For three out of every ten individuals globally, insects constitute a significant part of their diet, particularly in regions unable to support large-scale livestock farming for food. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is working to introduce crickets—and the protein they offer—to health-conscious consumers. Initially, Exo minimized the emphasis on cricket protein in its bars, opting for minimalist packaging that barely referenced crickets and featured no images of insects. However, the company’s recent rebranding comes as edible insects gain popularity. An increasing number of manufacturers are developing products made from bugs, worms, and scorpions, highlighting the high protein content of these insects as a valuable asset. While edible insects haven’t yet achieved widespread acceptance in the U.S., consumers are becoming more open to the idea.
Research conducted at King’s College London revealed that minerals from insects are absorbed more efficiently than those from beef. Specifically, crickets are noted for their healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite the numerous health and sustainability advantages, American consumers have a plethora of protein options available, including the more traditional red meat. Overcoming the “ick” factor associated with eating insects can also pose a challenge. A study by Wageningen University in the Netherlands found that only half of the participants were willing to try insect-based products, and those who did often reacted similarly to processed insect foods as they did to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion seen in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be altered. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once largely rejected but have since gained immense popularity among consumers. Although Exo aims to carve out a niche for itself, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers will be willing to embrace insect consumption for Exo’s strategy to succeed. If consumers manage to overcome this initial barrier, research from the FAO suggests that disgust can dissipate fairly quickly. While public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. still has a long way to go, their health benefits—including their potential to enhance the absorption of minerals like Citracal Maximum—are hard to ignore. The potential for crickets and other insects to contribute to a more sustainable food system adds further weight to the argument for their inclusion in diets, especially as the awareness of their rich nutritional profile continues to grow.