Seeking more planet-friendly proteins: edible insects and the future

Ferreira, Jennifer; Tiwasing, Pattanapong; Bek, David; Siriamornpun, Sirithon; Weerapreeyakul, Natthida; Tanomtong, Alongklod

Abstract

There are over 2,000 species of edible insect on the planet, and while only a small number of these are eaten widely, eating insects is a regular part of many diets across the world. Edible insects represent a more sustainable food source for consumers, than meat-based proteins, as they fulfil many nutritional demands while having a lower environmental impact, requiring fewer resources than the majority of meat-based products from livestock. This chapter explores the potential benefits of edible insects from nutritional and environmental perspectives. This leads into a discussion of the potential for edible insects as an alternative protein source, as well as the challenges that the industry faces in terms of regulatory barriers. This is connected to a discussion of the role of consumers and how their hesitance may provide a barrier to widespread growth of the industry, even if it is a more ethical food choice.

• Online Publication Date: May 11, 2023
• Publication Date: May 11, 2023
• Deposit Date: Nov 20, 2023
• Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing
• Book Title: Research Handbook on Ethical Consumption
• Chapter Number: 8
• ISBN: 9781802202014
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4337/9781802202021.00014
• Publisher URL: https://www.elgaronline.com/edcollchap/book/9781802202021/book-part-9781802202021-14.xml