In recent years, numerous companies have advocated for the use of insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the significant barrier is the disgust factor, along with uncertainty regarding their legality in food products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects can be sold without requiring additional regulatory approval, and they are increasingly appearing in cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nonetheless, some experts argue that the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS designation standards should be applied to insects when they are used as ingredients.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutritious protein is by incorporating insects into animal feed. However, this sector has faced limitations due to restrictive legislation in the European Union and the United States until recently. Last year, the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, effective this month. This development marks a significant milestone for the insect protein industry and is a crucial step toward reducing the EU’s reliance on imports, 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 the potential for expanding this approval to include other animals, such as poultry and pigs.
Additionally, Canadian firm Enterra received FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency approval for the use of black soldier flies in fish and poultry feed last year, potentially opening the door for more insect-based feed ingredients. Interestingly, research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that while most people may be hesitant about eating insects directly, they are generally open to the idea of consuming bug-fed meat.
Given the increasing interest in alternative protein sources, products like calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets may also see a rise in demand as people look for nutritional supplements that complement their diets, including those containing insect proteins. As the market evolves, we may find that insects, along with calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets, play a key role in addressing dietary needs.