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The edible insects market size is forecast to increase by USD 11.42 billion at a CAGR of 46.02% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing food shortages worldwide and the adoption of insects as a sustainable food source in the food industries. The use of edible insects in processed foods is a burgeoning trend, with companies like Gathr Foods leading the way in producing innovative insect-based products. However, the market faces challenges such as low acceptance of insects as a food source by consumers, requiring efforts to promote their health benefits and sustainability. Insect farming for human food production reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock farming, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. Insect meal and insect powder derived from insect farming are also gaining popularity as sustainable sources of protein in animal feed.
The market is expected to grow further with the development of new insect types and the expansion of insect farming techniques.
Edible insects have emerged as a promising alternative protein source in response to resource scarcity and environmental degradation. With the increasing awareness of the negative impact of greenhouse gas emissions and the ecological footprint of traditional animal farming, insect-based products have gained popularity. These insects, rich in essential amino acids and necessary minerals, offer a sustainable solution to meet the protein demands of consumers. The market for insect-based food products is expanding, with retail outlets showcasing a variety of offerings, from cricket pasta to entomilk. The nutritional benefits of edible insects are driving the demand for these protein-rich foods, as consumers seek out sustainable and eco-friendly options.
Moreover, the food industries are also recognizing the potential of insects as a circular economy solution, with applications ranging from human food to animal feed. The future of edible insects looks promising, as awareness and acceptance continue to grow.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD Billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.
The human consumption segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Insects have been a significant part of human food consumption for over 7,000 years, with approximately 2,300 edible insect species identified. These nutritious creatures offer high protein levels, fiber, good fats, and essential minerals, making them an ideal food source. For instance, grasshoppers provide protein equivalent to lean ground beef. The FAO reports that around 2 billion people worldwide consume insects regularly as part of their diet. Insect farming is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional livestock rearing, requiring less land and producing fewer greenhouse gases. With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the need for sustainable food sources is more critical than ever.
Moreover, insect-based products, such as insect meal and insect powder, are gaining popularity in the food industries due to their nutritional benefits and environmental sustainability. Insect farming not only addresses the food shortage issue but also contributes to reducing hunger, as the FAO estimates that around 768 million people suffered from hunger in 2020, a number expected to double by 2030.
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The human consumption segment was valued at USD 372.00 million in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.
APAC is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
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The market in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region is experiencing significant growth due to increasing food shortages and the tropical climate's suitability for insect farming. Insects such as bamboo insects, caterpillar fungus, locusts, ants, termites, bees, wasp larvae, and silkworm pupae are commonly consumed in countries like China, Cambodia, Thailand, and South Korea. Ants, beetles, and wasps are popular choices in India, Australia, and Sri Lanka. China recognizes over 178 edible insect species, which are considered delicacies. Insect farming is gaining traction as a sustainable source of protein for the food industries. Insect meal and insect powder derived from these sources are used as ingredients in various insect-based products.
Moreover, the consumption of edible insects not only addresses food shortages but also offers health benefits, as they are rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. Additionally, insect farming contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock farming.
Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
Growing food shortage across the globe is the key driver of the market. Edible insects are gaining popularity as an alternative nutritional source to address growing food shortages and insecurity around the world. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), approximately 282 million people experienced hunger in 2023, a 24 million increase from the previous year. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated food supply issues, leading to an increase in the number of individuals facing food shortages in 2020. The FAO projects that this number could double by 2030. To mitigate food shortages in various regions, the consumption of edible insects is being advocated globally. These insects can be efficiently cultivated in tropical areas, such as Africa, with minimal land usage.
Moreover, edible insects offer essential nutrients and minerals, making them a viable solution for addressing nutritional deficiencies. Companies like Crowbar Protein, Exo Protein, and others are pioneering the cultivation practices of edible insects for commercial production. However, ethical barriers and environmental regulations must be considered to ensure sustainable and ethical production methods. Dried insects, such as mealworms and crickets, have a lower ecological footprint compared to traditional livestock farming, making them an attractive option for reducing environmental degradation. Entotarians, individuals who consume insects as a primary source of protein, are advocating for the normalization of edible insects as a nutritious and sustainable food source.
The use of edible insects in processed foods is the upcoming trend in the market. Edible insects, such as Crowbar Protein, are gaining popularity as a sustainable and nutritious food source. The cultivation practices for these insects are subject to various environmental regulations to minimize their ecological footprint and mitigate environmental degradation. Processing techniques, including lipid extraction, crushing, and low-temperature processing, are employed to transform insects into palatable forms, such as insect flour, protein powders, and edible insect paste. These processed products not only retain the essential minerals and nutrients but also surmount ethical barriers, making them an attractive alternative for Entotarians and health-conscious consumers. Moreover, the market for edible insects is projected to expand significantly during the forecast period, as the trend towards sustainable and nutrient-dense food sources continues to gain momentum.
Low acceptance of edible insects as a food source is a key challenge affecting the market growth. Edible insects, such as Crowbar Protein and Exo Protein, have yet to gain widespread acceptance in the food market due to various factors. Cultural norms and ethical barriers prevent many consumers from embracing insects as a food source. Additionally, concerns regarding cultivation practices and potential environmental degradation, as well as the perception of insects as unhygienic, pose challenges to market growth. Environmental regulations also play a role in limiting the production and distribution of edible insects. Despite their high nutritional value, which includes essential minerals and essential nutrients, the market for edible insects is expected to experience a decline during the forecast period. The COVID-19 pandemic has further reinforced the belief in the unhygienic nature of insect consumption, making it a less desirable food option for many.
The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.
Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
All Things Bugs LLC: The company offers edible insects such as Griopro insect powder. Also, the company offers insect agriculture industrial products.
The market research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
Edible insects are gaining popularity as alternative protein sources in agriculture farming due to their nutritional benefits and minimal environmental impact. These insects, including ants, grasshoppers, crickets, mealworms, and black soldier flies, are rich in essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins, making them ideal for both human food and animal feed. Insect farming has emerged as a sustainable solution to address resource scarcity and environmental degradation caused by traditional animal-based protein production. The changing eating habits of consumers, particularly those following ketogenic, paleo, and vegan diets, have led to an increase in demand for insect-based products. These range from dried insects for snacking to cricket pasta, protein bars, and insect-based protein powders.
Moreover, insect cultivation practices are also being optimized using agriprotein technologies to improve yields and reduce psychological and ethical barriers. Insects have a lower ecological footprint compared to traditional animal protein sources, producing fewer greenhouse gases and requiring less water and land. Insect meal and insect powder are also being used as sustainable alternatives to soy and fishmeal in animal feed. The food industries are investing in new product development, with companies like Gathr Foods and Crik Nutrition leading the way in bringing insect-based products to retail outlets. Despite the numerous benefits, the adoption of insect-based foods is not without challenges. Allergies to insects are a concern for some consumers, and environmental regulations are still being established in many regions. However, as awareness of the nutritional and environmental benefits of edible insects continues to grow, it is expected that the market will continue to expand.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
164 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018-2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 46.02% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 11.42 billion |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
32.78 |
Regional analysis |
APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America |
Performing market contribution |
APAC at 43% |
Key countries |
US, China, Thailand, UK, and South Korea |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
All Things Bugs LLC, Armstrong Crickets Georgia, Aspire Food Group, Beta Hatch, Bioflytech, Darling Ingredients Inc., Eat Grub, Edible Bug Shop, Entomo Farms, Global Bugs Asia Co. Ltd., Hargol FoodTech, HEXAFLY, Innovafeed SAS, JR Unique Foods Ltd., MealFood Europe SL, nextProtein SA, Nutrition Technologies, Protenga Pte. Ltd., Protix BV, and Ynsect SAS |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, market forecast, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our market report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
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1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Application
7 Market Segmentation by Product Type
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints
11 Competitive Landscape
12 Competitive Analysis
13 Appendix
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