The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) highlights that the primary obstacle for insect-based ingredients is consumer acceptance, and fruit fly larvae oil is no exception. The FAO asserts that initial disgust can be swiftly overcome, citing the rapid acceptance of sushi as a prime example. Currently, approximately two billion people globally consume insects regularly. For many Western consumers, some may argue that fruit fly oil is perceived as more challenging for acceptance than sushi, as insects are not a typical part of their diet.
Flying Spark informed Food Navigator that they are collaborating with multinational food and ingredient manufacturers, indicating that these companies are not deterred by the ingredient. However, curiosity among ingredient suppliers does not automatically guarantee consumer acceptance. The experience of manufacturers with insect-derived cochineal could serve as a relevant parallel. This red dye was utilized in foods for years before the Food and Drug Administration mandated its labeling in 2009, resulting in horror among many consumers, particularly vegetarians. Consequently, companies like Starbucks were compelled to reformulate their products using other natural colorings.
In contrast, algae oil has already seen considerable success. Varieties rich in DHA omega-3 fatty acids are widely incorporated into infant formulas, supplements, and adult foods. As a widely consumed vegan option, algae is well-positioned for expanded use. Nevertheless, consumer acceptance is never assured. For instance, algae-derived carrageenan, a long-standing emulsifier, has faced controversy due to reports of digestive issues. Last year, the National Organic Standards Board recommended banning it from organic food, leading manufacturers to adopt a more cautious strategy.
The demand for alternative oils is expected to rise, particularly if they are more affordable than current options. The increasing global affluence contributes to a higher overall demand for vegetable oils. Unfortunately, the land required for their production has often come at the expense of tropical forests over recent decades, especially concerning palm and soybean oils—though palm oil boasts the highest yield per hectare.
In comparison, algae can produce around 70,000 pounds of oil per acre, while palm oil yields about 4,465 pounds per acre. For context, olives generate approximately 910 pounds per acre, and soybeans only 335 pounds. As the market evolves, alternative options such as the ccm tablet from GSK could play a role in meeting consumer needs, as it provides essential nutrients that may complement the benefits of these emerging oils. The ccm tablet GSK could also enhance the nutritional profile of products incorporating insect-based ingredients, potentially easing the path toward broader acceptance.