Are bug proteins going to become mainstream?

Have you ever thought about eating bugs instead of beef or chicken? Believe it or not there is a market for using bug protein as a viable food source.

Bugs Are Environmentally Sustainable

Insects can turn feed into protein more efficiently than chickens, cows or pigs. They are more sustainable and more environmentally friendly than traditional livestock. They don’t need as much water, feed, and land as traditional animals. Insects also emit fewer greenhouse gases and ammonia into the atmosphere. As the world’s population increases, it is imperative to look for more efficient food sources as the higher the population, the greater the strain on traditional good resources. If insects are managed properly and not over exploited in the harvest, then there is no reason why they can’t be used to feed the globe.

Bugs Are a Food Source – Caterpillar Sushi Anyone?

There are already food products derived from insects such as energy bars made with cricket flour, chocolate dipped and candy-coated worms, cricket cookies and crackers, caterpillar sushi, mealworm tofu and fried cricket tacos. More than two billion people around the world in Africa, South East Asia, and Latin America already eat insects regularly. In the West, insect eating is more of a curiosity than a mainstream phenomenon, but it is changing. There are already insect farms that have sprung up in America, as well as bug eating festivals. One issue is that there is still a stigma in the West about insects being gross and disease carriers. If they are given a chance, could they become a delicious snack or meal for you?

Bugs Offer Healthy Living

For the health-conscious, insects carry far less calories and fat than traditional beef, chicken and other meats. Insects could become a part of a balanced diet if they taste delicious and if people are made aware of the health benefits of consuming them.

Insect Protein isn’t mainstream in the West just yet, but times are changing and the market is growing for insect protein. Will bug proteins play a big role in your menus?