The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) identifies consumer acceptance as the primary hurdle for insect-based ingredients, and oil derived from fruit fly larvae is no exception. The FAO suggests that feelings of disgust can be overcome relatively swiftly, citing the rapid popularity of raw fish in sushi as a notable example. Currently, around two billion individuals worldwide regularly consume insects. However, for many Western consumers, fruit fly oil may be seen as even more controversial than sushi, since insects are not typically part of their diets.
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. Nevertheless, the curiosity of ingredient suppliers does not guarantee consumer acceptance. The experience with insect-derived cochineal offers a significant parallel; this red dye was used in foods for years until the FDA mandated it to be labeled in 2009, leading to shock among many consumers, especially vegetarians. Consequently, companies like Starbucks were compelled to reformulate their products with alternative natural colors.
In contrast, algae oil has already seen considerable success. Varieties rich in DHA omega-3 fatty acids are commonly used in infant formula, dietary supplements, and adult food products. Given its wide consumption and vegan status, algae is well-positioned for expanded use. However, consumer acceptance is never assured. For instance, algae-derived carrageenan has faced controversy due to reports of digestive issues, leading the National Organic Standards Board to recommend its removal from organic food products last year. Such developments may encourage manufacturers to adopt a cautious approach.
There is likely to be increasing demand for alternative oils, particularly if they can be offered at lower prices than current options. Rising global affluence is driving a greater demand for vegetable oils. Unfortunately, the production of these oils has often come at the cost of tropical forests over recent decades, especially with palm and soybean oils—though palm oil yields the highest output per hectare. In contrast, algae can produce approximately 70,000 pounds of oil per acre, far exceeding palm oil’s 4,465 pounds per acre. For perspective, olives yield around 910 pounds per acre, and soybeans only 335.
As demand for alternative oils grows, the introduction of products like ccm tablet generic could become more prevalent in the industry, potentially influencing consumer choices and preferences. The evolution of consumer acceptance towards ingredients like insect oil and algae oil will be crucial in shaping the future of food production.