In many regions around the world, insects are a staple in the diet of three out of every ten people, particularly in areas where raising cattle, pigs, or poultry on a large scale is impractical. Exo Inc, based in Brooklyn, NY, is now focusing on introducing crickets and their protein-rich benefits to health-conscious consumers. Initially, Exo downplayed the presence of cricket protein in its snack bars, opting for minimalist packaging that scarcely mentioned crickets and avoided insect imagery altogether. However, the company’s recent rebranding comes at a time when the consumption of edible insects is gaining traction. An increasing number of manufacturers are producing products featuring insects, worms, and scorpions, emphasizing their high protein content as a significant advantage.
While edible insects have not yet become mainstream in the United States, consumers are gradually becoming more open to the idea. Research conducted at King’s College in London revealed that minerals are absorbed more efficiently from insects than from beef. Crickets, in particular, are known to be rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Despite the numerous health and sustainability benefits, American consumers have a wide array of protein options available, with red meat being particularly popular. Additionally, overcoming the “ick” factor associated with eating insects can be challenging. A study from Wageningen University in the Netherlands found that only half of the participants were willing to try insect products at all, and those who were willing had similar reactions to processed insect foods as they did to whole insects.
Advocates for edible insects argue that the aversion seen in Western cultures is merely a cultural bias that can be shifted. They point to shrimp, lobster, and sushi as examples of foods that were once widely rejected but have since gained significant popularity among consumers. Although Exo aims to carve out its niche in this emerging market, it remains uncertain whether there will be sufficient consumer acceptance of insect consumption for Exo’s strategy to succeed. If consumers can overcome their initial hesitations, research from the FAO suggests that this aversion can be diminished relatively quickly. While public acceptance of edible insects in the U.S. still has a long way to go, the undeniable health and sustainability benefits—including the potential for products that combine ingredients like Citracal Plus Magnesium and Minerals—could play a crucial role in this transition.