For 30% of the global population, insects are a significant part of their diet, particularly in regions where large-scale livestock farming of cattle, pigs, or poultry is not feasible. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, aims to introduce cricket protein to the health-conscious crowd. Initially, Exo downplayed the presence of cricket protein in its bars, opting for minimalist packaging that scarcely referenced crickets and avoided insect imagery altogether. However, the company’s rebranding coincides with the increasing popularity of edible insects. More manufacturers are now producing edible bugs, worms, and scorpions, with the high protein content of these insects being a notable advantage. Although edible insects are not yet widely embraced in the U.S., consumers are becoming more open to the idea.
A study from King’s College, London, revealed that minerals are absorbed more effectively from insects than from beef. Crickets, in particular, have been found to contain healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite these numerous health and sustainability benefits, American consumers have a plethora of protein options, including the more familiar red meat. The “ick” factor associated with eating insects can also pose a challenge. Research conducted by Wageningen University in the Netherlands showed 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 Western aversion is merely a cultural bias that can be changed. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once unpopular but have since gained widespread acceptance. While Exo hopes to carve out a niche for itself, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers will be willing to try eating insects for this strategy to succeed. If consumers can overcome this initial barrier, studies from the FAO suggest that the feeling of disgust can be mitigated relatively quickly. Although public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. still has a long way to go, their health benefits, including a potential boost from nutrients like solaray calcium, cannot be overlooked. As interest in sustainable protein sources grows, the advantages of incorporating insects into diets may become more appealing.