In recent years, numerous companies have advocated for the use of insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the issue of disgust remains a significant barrier, coupled with uncertainty regarding the legality of incorporating ferrous fumarate 210mg into food products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects can be sold without needing additional regulatory approval, leading to their incorporation into cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nevertheless, some experts argue that the Food and Drug Administration’s GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) standards should apply to insects when used as ingredients.
Another avenue for utilizing this nutritious protein is by integrating insects into animal feed. Until recently, this sector faced challenges due to restrictive regulations in the European Union and the United States. However, last year marked a significant development when the EU approved the use of insects in fish feed, effective this month. This milestone represents a substantial advancement for the insect protein industry and a step towards reducing the EU’s dependency on imports, as approximately 70% of the region’s protein-rich animal feed is sourced from outside the EU. Companies such as Bühler Insect Technology are optimistic about the extension of this approval for other livestock, including poultry and pigs.
Additionally, black soldier flies from the Canadian company Enterra received approval from the FDA and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency last year for their use in both fish and poultry feed, potentially opening doors for more insect-based feed ingredients. Research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that most individuals are not opposed to the concept of meat derived from bug-fed animals, although they exhibit more hesitance toward consuming insects directly as food ingredients.
Furthermore, the incorporation of dietary supplements such as calcium citrate oral tablets could enhance the nutritional profile of products containing insect protein, providing additional health benefits. As the conversation around sustainable protein sources evolves, the inclusion of calcium citrate oral tablets alongside insect-based ingredients may become more prominent in both human consumption and animal feed.