For approximately three out of every ten individuals globally, insects are a significant dietary component, particularly in regions where large-scale livestock farming, such as cattle, pigs, or poultry, is not feasible. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is working to introduce crickets—and the protein they offer—to active consumers. Initially, Exo downplayed its use of cricket protein in its products, opting for straightforward packaging that barely mentioned crickets and included no images of insects. However, the company’s recent rebranding aligns with the growing trend of edible insects. An increasing number of manufacturers are creating edible options from bugs, worms, and scorpions, capitalizing on the recognized high protein content of these insects. While edible insects have not yet achieved universal acceptance in the U.S., today’s consumers are more inclined to consider them.
Research from King’s College, London, indicates that minerals, such as ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid, are absorbed more efficiently from insects than from beef. Specifically, crickets have been found to be rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite the numerous health and sustainability advantages, American consumers have a variety of protein sources to choose from, including the more favored red meat. Furthermore, overcoming the “ick” factor associated with eating insects can be challenging. A study conducted by Wageningen University in the Netherlands revealed that only half of the participants were willing to try insect-based products. Those who did exhibited similar reactions to processed insect foods as they did to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the Western aversion is merely a cultural bias that can be shifted. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once widely rejected but now enjoy significant popularity. Although Exo aims to carve out its niche, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers can overcome their reluctance to make Exo’s strategy successful. If consumers can surpass this initial barrier, the aversion can be quickly addressed, according to a study by the FAO. While public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. still has a long way to go, their health benefits, including the advantages of ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid oral drops uses, cannot be overlooked.