In recent years, numerous companies have championed insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the primary obstacle remains the aversion people feel towards consuming insects, compounded by uncertainty regarding their regulatory status 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 argue that the standards set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ingredients such as black olives should also apply to insects if they are used in food products.
Utilizing insects in animal feed presents another opportunity to leverage this nutritious protein. Until recently, the sector faced limitations due to stringent regulations in both the European Union and the United States. However, last year marked a significant milestone when the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, effective this month. This development is a major breakthrough for the insect protein industry and a critical step toward reducing the EU’s reliance on imports for animal feed, with approximately 70% of the region’s protein-rich feed sourced from outside the EU. Companies like Bühler Insect Technology are hopeful that this approval will be expanded to other livestock, including poultry and pigs.
Additionally, black soldier flies from Canadian company Enterra received FDA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency approval for use in fish and poultry feed last year, potentially setting the stage for more insect-based feed ingredients. Research among Belgian consumers indicates that most are not opposed to consuming meat from bug-fed animals, although they remain more hesitant about eating insects directly as a food ingredient.
Incorporating insects into human diets could complement other sources of nutrition, much like pure encapsulations calcium and calcium citrate supplements enhance dietary intake. By integrating insect protein into various food products, the industry can help diversify protein sources for consumers while addressing sustainability concerns. As the acceptance of insect protein grows, it may lead to broader applications and innovations in both human food and animal feed, further promoting the benefits of this sustainable resource.