Table of Contents
Introduction
The global insect protein market is poised for remarkable growth, projected to expand from USD 267.6 million in 2022 to USD 3,715.0 million by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 31.10%. This surge is primarily driven by increasing consumer awareness of insect protein’s health benefits and environmental sustainability. Insect protein, derived from sources such as crickets, mealworms, and black soldier flies, is gaining traction as animal feed and for human consumption due to its high protein content and eco-friendly production advantages.
However, the market faces significant challenges, including inadequate regulations in some regions, which hampers growth and market acceptance. Moreover, cultural acceptability and consumer preferences vary widely across different regions, affecting the adoption rate of insect-based foods.
Recent developments in the industry include significant investments in production capabilities. For instance, companies like Aspire Food Group and EnviroFlight LLC are expanding their facilities to increase supply in response to growing demand. There has also been a notable increase in startups entering the market, bringing innovation and expanding the applications of insect protein into food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
Aspire Food Group has been particularly active, acquiring Exo, a company known for its cricket-based protein bars, to enhance its product line and integrate Exo’s offerings with its cricket farming operations. This acquisition is aimed at creating new products and fueling future growth for both customer bases and the larger industry. EnviroFlight LLC, another major player, has been expanding its production capabilities. In 2019, the company opened its first commercial production facility in Kentucky, which was a significant step towards enlarging its production of insect protein from black soldier flies.
Overall, the insect protein market is at a critical growth phase, with potential for substantial expansion as industries and consumers continue to recognize its benefits over traditional protein sources.
Insect Protein Statistics
- 10-15%: Recommended daily energy intake from protein.
- 36 times: Efficiency of feeding people with insects compared to cattle, given the same amount of feed.
- 1 square meter: Land needed to produce 1 kilo of insect protein.
- 2 kilos: Feed required to produce 1 kilo of insect mass.
- By 2100, the world’s population is projected to reach 11 billion, necessitating sustainable food solutions.
- Predictions suggest 830 to 1.09 billion people may suffer from hunger by 2050, urging a 50% to 75% increase in food supply.
- Protein Content: Ranges from 13-81% of dry matter, comparable to conventional meats.
- Energy Value: Ranges from 293 to 777 kcal per 100 g of dry matter, influenced by fat content and developmental stage.
- Digestibility: Protein digestibility ranges from 76-96%, comparable to animal sources.
- Nutritional Value: Edible insects boast high protein content (35%-60% dry weight), surpassing plant sources like cereal and soybeans.
- Protein Content: Ranges from 30% to 85% on a dry matter basis.
- Global Consumption: Approximately 2 billion people globally consume edible insects as part of their diet.
- Edible Insect Species: Over 2,100 species are eaten as food worldwide, with over 470 species in Africa alone.
- Fat Content: Ranges from 13.4% for grasshoppers, crickets, and locusts (Orthoptera) to 33.4% for beetles and their larvae (Coleoptera).
- High-Protein Source: The house cricket (Acheta domesticus) contains 65% protein based on dry matter.
- Comparison with Conventional Protein Sources: Protein content in edible insects is substantially higher than conventional sources like milk (30%), eggs (52%), beef (50%), and soybean (45%), based on dry matter.
- Results indicated similar attitudes towards insects as food in both groups, with about 35-40% considering eating insects.
Emerging Trends
Emerging trends in the insect protein market are shaping its future, driven by a growing consumer awareness of health, sustainability, and technological advancements in food production. The use of insect protein is expanding beyond traditional animal feed applications into human food sectors, including snacks, protein bars, and even bakery items. This diversification is supported by its high protein content and environmental benefits, such as lower land and water usage compared to traditional livestock protein sources.
One significant trend is the increased incorporation of insect proteins into the food and beverage industry, where they are being used in products like pasta, burgers, and functional foods. This shift is facilitated by advancements in processing technologies that make insect protein more palatable and versatile for various culinary uses. Furthermore, the health benefits, including high digestibility and nutrient density, are appealing to health-conscious consumers.
Regulatory developments are also playing a crucial role. For instance, in Europe, the approval of insect proteins for human consumption is fostering market growth, with more companies entering the sector and innovating new products. This regulatory support is expected to continue driving the market, especially as consumers become more open to integrating insect-based foods into their diets due to their environmental and nutritional advantages.
The market’s growth is also propelled by significant investments and the entry of numerous startups focusing on expanding the production and application of insect proteins. These factors collectively indicate a robust trajectory for the insect protein market, with substantial opportunities for innovation and expansion in both human and animal nutrition sectors
Use Cases
- Animal Nutrition: Insect protein is extensively used in animal feed due to its high nutritional value. It is especially favored in aquaculture and poultry feed where the protein’s high digestibility and excellent amino acid profile are crucial. This use case is driven by the sustainability of insect farming, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional feed sources like fishmeal and soybean meal.
- Food and Beverages: The demand for insect protein in the food and beverage industry is on the rise. It’s being incorporated into products such as protein bars, bakery items, and even pastas. This trend is supported by consumer interest in sustainable and nutritious food sources. The versatility of insect protein allows it to be used in a variety of food products, catering to the growing demand for protein-rich and environmentally friendly food options.
- Pharmaceuticals and Supplements: Insect protein is finding its way into the pharmaceutical sector due to its beneficial properties, including high protein content and the presence of health-promoting components like lauric acid and chitin. These elements are known to enhance immune functions and improve gut health, making insect protein a valuable ingredient in dietary supplements.
- Personal Care and Cosmetics: There is a growing trend to use insect protein in personal care products. The protein’s unique properties, such as its amino acid profile and anti-inflammatory characteristics, make it suitable for cosmetic applications, where it can help improve skin health and other personal care functions.
Key Players Analysis
Aspire Food Group excels in the insect protein sector by spearheading innovative farming and production technologies. Notably, they’ve recently expanded by acquiring Exo, a brand specializing in cricket-based protein bars, enhancing their product range and market presence. Aspire’s efforts are focused on scaling up cricket protein production, evidenced by their large-scale facility initiatives. These strategic moves position Aspire as a leader in sustainable protein alternatives, catering to a growing global demand for eco-friendly and nutritious food solutions.
EnviroFlight LLC is making significant strides in the insect protein industry by specializing in the production of black soldier fly larvae. Their approach focuses on sustainable practices and the transformation of organic waste into high-quality protein, primarily for animal feed. The opening of their commercial production facility in Kentucky marks a significant expansion in their capabilities. EnviroFlight’s operations underscore a commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation, aiming to meet the increasing demand for alternative protein sources.
Swarm Nutrition GmbH is distinguishing itself in the insect protein sector by specializing in the production of insect-based protein bars. Their products, which include unique flavors like hazelnut, raw cacao, and red berries, cater to a growing consumer base looking for sustainable and innovative nutritional options. The company’s focus on using sustainable protein from insects aligns with increasing market demands for environmentally friendly and health-conscious food choices.
Next Protein Inc. is emerging as a key player in the insect protein market, though specific recent activities or expansions were not detailed in the latest reports. Generally, companies like Next Protein are part of a broader industry trend where innovation in sustainable food sources is critical. They are expected to contribute to the sector’s growth by expanding the range of available insect-based products, enhancing food sustainability, and meeting the protein needs of a growing global population.
Ynsect NL Nutrition & Health B.V. is at the forefront of the insect protein industry, focusing on the production and refinement of yellow mealworm ingredients for various applications. The company’s cutting-edge vertical farming technology and automation enable the scalable production of high-quality insect protein, which is being increasingly utilized in animal feed, food products, and even in agricultural nutrients. Ynsect’s innovative approach and sustainable practices position it as a leader in contributing to the global food chain’s sustainability.
Entomo Farms is a pioneer in the North American insect protein market, specializing in the cultivation and processing of crickets for human consumption. They offer a range of products, from whole roasted crickets to cricket powder, catering to the growing demand for sustainable and high-protein food options. Entomo Farms focuses on eco-friendly practices and is committed to educating consumers about the nutritional benefits of insect-based foods, making significant strides in changing perceptions and increasing acceptance of insects as a viable food source.
Protix is a leading figure in the insect protein sector, known for its innovations in sustainable protein production. The company has partnered with Tyson Foods to enhance the insect ingredient industry, focusing on creating more sustainable protein and lipid solutions. This collaboration includes a joint venture to construct an insect ingredient facility in the U.S., which will produce high-quality proteins and lipids mainly for pet food, aquaculture, and livestock industries. Protix’s role in this partnership emphasizes its strategic expansion and commitment to sustainable food solutions.
Insect Technology Group Holdings Limited is dedicated to advancing the insect protein industry through technological innovations and sustainable practices. The company emphasizes the development and scale-up of systems that convert organic waste into valuable insect-based products, enhancing sustainability in the food and agriculture sectors. This approach not only addresses waste management challenges but also supports the production of high-quality, sustainable protein sources, positioning the company as a key player in promoting a circular economy in the food system.
Conclusion
The insect protein market is poised for substantial growth, fueled by an increasing recognition of its health and environmental benefits. As consumers and industries alike seek sustainable and nutritious alternatives to traditional protein sources, insect protein is emerging as a viable solution across multiple sectors, including animal feed, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its high protein content, essential amino acids, and lower ecological footprint make it an attractive option in the global push towards sustainable development. Moreover, the market’s expansion is supported by advancements in production technologies and growing regulatory acceptance, especially in regions like Europe where insect protein is becoming a more familiar part of diets. As awareness and acceptance continue to rise, the insect protein market is set to play a crucial role in the future of food and nutrition security globally.
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