Insects are a significant part of the diet for three out of every ten people worldwide, particularly in regions where large-scale livestock farming is not feasible. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is aiming to introduce crickets and their protein to health-conscious consumers. Initially, Exo downplayed cricket protein in its products, choosing minimalist packaging that barely referenced crickets and featured no images of insects. However, the company’s rebranding comes at a time when the consumption of edible insects is gaining traction. An increasing number of manufacturers are producing edible varieties of bugs, worms, and scorpions, with the high protein content of these insects being a notable advantage.
While edible insects are not yet widely accepted in the U.S., consumers are becoming more open-minded. Research conducted at King’s College in London revealed that minerals are absorbed more effectively from insects than from beef. Crickets, in particular, are rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite the health and sustainability benefits, American consumers have numerous protein sources at their disposal, including more popular options like red meat. Additionally, overcoming the initial “ick” factor associated with consuming insects can be challenging. A study from Wageningen University in the Netherlands found that only half of the participants were willing to try insect-based products, and those who did responded similarly to both whole insects and processed insect foods.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion seen in Western cultures is a mere cultural bias that can be shifted. 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 establish its niche, it remains uncertain whether enough consumers will embrace insect consumption for the company’s strategy to be successful. However, if consumers can overcome this initial aversion, the transition can occur relatively quickly, as indicated by a study from the FAO. Although public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. has a long way to go, their health benefits—including their calcium content, which raises questions such as “how much calcium in calcium citrate”—and sustainability advantages are undeniable. As more people become aware of these benefits, the acceptance of edible insects may continue to grow.