For three out of every ten individuals worldwide, insects constitute a significant portion of their diet, particularly since many regions cannot support the large-scale farming of cattle, pigs, or poultry for food. In response, Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is working to introduce crickets—and the protein they offer—to the active lifestyle community. Initially, Exo downplayed the inclusion of cricket protein in its bars, opting for clean and minimalistic packaging that hardly referenced crickets and featured no images of insects. However, with the recent rebranding of the company, it is capitalizing on the growing trend of edible insects. An increasing number of manufacturers are producing edible bugs, worms, and scorpions, with the high protein content of these insects being a notable advantage. While edible insects have not yet achieved widespread acceptance in the U.S., consumers are becoming more open-minded about trying them.
A study conducted at King’s College, London, revealed that minerals are absorbed more efficiently from insects than from beef. Crickets, in particular, are known to be rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite these numerous health and sustainability benefits, American consumers have a plethora of protein sources to choose from, including the more familiar red meat. Additionally, overcoming the “ick” factor associated with insect consumption can be challenging. Research from Wageningen University in the Netherlands indicated that only half of the participants were willing to try insect-based products. Those who did typically reacted more favorably to processed insect products than to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be shifted. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once unpopular but have since gained widespread acceptance. Although Exo aims to carve out its niche in this market, it remains uncertain whether sufficient consumers will be willing to embrace insect consumption for Exo’s approach to be successful. If consumers can overcome this initial resistance, studies from the FAO suggest that the distaste can be quickly remedied. While public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. has a long way to go, their health and sustainability benefits are undeniable.
Interestingly, incorporating nutritional supplements like solgar calcium magnesium citrate liquid may further enhance the appeal of cricket-based products, as consumers look for additional health benefits. This could potentially bridge the gap for those hesitant to try insects, as they seek balanced nutrition. By integrating solgar calcium magnesium citrate liquid into their offerings, Exo could address health-conscious consumers’ needs, making the transition to insect consumption easier. Ultimately, as the market for edible insects continues to expand, the potential for innovative products that combine traditional nutrition with the benefits of insect protein, along with items like solgar calcium magnesium citrate liquid, may pave the way for greater acceptance.