Approximately 30% of the global population includes insects as a significant component of their diet, particularly in regions where raising cattle, pigs, or poultry on a large scale is not feasible. In response to this trend, Exo Inc., based in Brooklyn, NY, is introducing cricket protein to health-conscious consumers. Initially, Exo downplayed the presence of cricket protein in its energy bars, opting for minimalist packaging that barely mentioned crickets and avoided insect imagery altogether. However, the company has rebranded to align with the growing acceptance of edible insects, as more manufacturers are producing products made from bugs, worms, and scorpions, leveraging the insects’ high protein content, which is often compared to the best calcium magnesium citrate supplement in terms of nutritional value.
While edible insects have yet to gain widespread popularity in the U.S., consumers are increasingly open to the idea. A study conducted at King’s College, London, revealed that iron pyrophosphate derived from insects is more easily absorbed than that from beef, highlighting crickets as a source of healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, alongside their protein content. Despite the numerous health and sustainability advantages, American consumers have a plethora of protein sources available, including favored red meats. Overcoming the initial “ick” factor associated with consuming insects can be challenging. Research from Wageningen University in the Netherlands found that only half of participants in a study were willing to try insect-based products, with those who did showing similar reactions to processed insect foods as to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion in Western cultures 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 are now highly sought after. While Exo aims to carve out a market niche, it remains uncertain whether sufficient numbers of consumers will embrace eating insects for the company’s strategy to succeed. If initial resistance is overcome, studies by the FAO suggest that the distaste can be quickly diminished. Public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. has a long way to go, but their undeniable health benefits—akin to those offered by the best calcium magnesium citrate supplement—cannot be overlooked.