Entomophagy (insects)

Entomophagy is the practice of eating insects. Edible insects have always been part of the human diet. However, western societies historically have associated insects with pests, threats and health risks. Due to increasing populations and the environmental impact of food production, insects have attracted attention as an alternative, sustainable source of food. Edible Insects play a relevant role in improving food security and promoting a circular economy. The market for insect-based food has grown over the past decade. Edible insects are considered farmed animals and their products have been classified as novel foods since 2018. Thus they fall under the regulation of the European Food Safety Authority and the European Commission. In Europe, low consumer acceptance has been identified as one of the main barriers to entomophagy adoption. Campaigns are being conducted worldwide to inform consumers about the benefits of insect consumption. Increasingly, discussions about insects as farmed animals are stimulated.