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 presents a significant challenge, alongside confusion about their regulatory status in food products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects can be sold without needing additional regulatory approval, leading to their incorporation in cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nevertheless, some argue that the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS designation standards should apply to insects when used as ingredients in food.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutritious protein is by incorporating insects into animal feed. However, until recently, this sector faced restrictions due to stringent legislation in the European Union and the United States. Last year, the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, a decision that took effect this month. This development represents a significant breakthrough for the insect protein industry and a crucial step toward reducing the EU’s reliance on imported protein sources, as approximately 70% of the region’s protein-rich animal feed is sourced from outside the EU. Companies like Bühler Insect Technology are optimistic about extending this approval to include other livestock, such as poultry and pigs. Additionally, black soldier flies from the Canadian firm Enterra received FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency approval for use in fish and poultry feed last year, which could lead to the introduction of more insect-based feed ingredients.
Interestingly, research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that while most individuals are open to the concept of bug-fed meat, they remain hesitant about directly consuming insects as food ingredients. This raises the question: when considering dietary supplements like calcium citrate, what should you not take with calcium citrate? Understanding the interactions between dietary components is crucial as we explore new protein sources. As the conversation around sustainable proteins continues to evolve, it is important to consider both consumer perceptions and the regulatory landscape that could influence the future of insect-based food and feed.