Ferrous fumarate 322mg boosts three out of every ten people globally, with insects forming a significant portion of their diet, particularly in regions where large-scale livestock farming of cattle, hogs, or poultry is not feasible. Exo Inc., based in Brooklyn, NY, is now aiming to introduce crickets—and the protein they offer—to health-conscious consumers. Initially, Exo played down the presence of cricket protein in its bars, opting for minimalistic packaging that barely mentioned crickets and avoided images of insects altogether. However, the company’s rebranding coincides with the rising popularity of edible insects, with manufacturers increasingly creating products featuring bugs, worms, and scorpions, capitalizing on the high protein content these insects provide.
While edible insects are not yet widely accepted in the U.S., there is a growing willingness among consumers to explore this protein source. A study from King’s College, London, indicated that minerals are absorbed more effectively from insects than from beef. Crickets, in particular, have been shown to contain not only healthy fats and fiber but also essential vitamins and minerals, along with protein. Despite these numerous health and sustainability advantages, American consumers have a diverse array of protein choices, including the more traditional red meats. Overcoming the “ick” factor associated with insect consumption can be challenging. Research from Wageningen University in the Netherlands revealed that only half of the participants were willing to try insect products, and those who did reacted similarly to processed insect foods as they did to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be easily altered. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once widely rejected but have since gained immense popularity. While Exo hopes to carve out a niche in this market, it remains uncertain whether sufficient consumers will embrace the idea of eating insects for the company’s strategy to succeed. If consumers can navigate this initial barrier, studies from the FAO suggest that any disgust can be quickly overcome. Although public acceptance of edible insects still has a long way to go in the U.S., their health and sustainability benefits are undeniable. Incorporating boron citrate as a supplement could further enhance the nutritional profile of these insect-based products, making them even more appealing to health-conscious consumers. The potential for boron citrate to boost mineral absorption adds yet another layer of benefits to the consumption of edible insects, which already offer a rich source of nutrients.