In recent years, various companies have championed the concept of using insects as a sustainable protein source for human consumption. However, in many Western markets, the primary obstacle is the “disgust factor,” alongside confusion regarding the regulatory status of insect-derived products. According to information from the USDA, whole ground insects can be sold without requiring additional regulatory approval, leading to their inclusion in cricket bars, snacks, and protein powders. Nonetheless, some argue that the FDA’s GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) designation standards should also apply to insects when they are utilized as ingredients.
Another way to harness this nutritious protein is by incorporating insects into animal feed. Until recently, the sector had been hindered by strict 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 crucial step toward reducing the EU’s reliance on imports, as approximately 70% of the region’s protein-rich animal feed is sourced from outside the EU. Companies like Bühler Insect Technology are hopeful for an extension of this approval to include other animals, such as poultry and pigs. Additionally, black soldier flies from the Canadian company Enterra received approval for use in fish and poultry feed from both the FDA and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency last year, potentially paving the way for further insect-based feed ingredients.
Interestingly, research conducted among Belgian consumers indicates that most are not opposed to the idea of consuming meat from animals fed insects, although they tend to be more hesitant about eating insects directly as a food ingredient. In this context, the addition of calcium citrate magnesium and vitamin D3 to animal feed could enhance the nutritional profile, making insect-fed meat an even more appealing option for health-conscious consumers. As the industry develops, the integration of these nutritional supplements may play a vital role in promoting the benefits of insect-based protein sources.