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Edible Insects Market Size 2024-2028

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 several key factors. One major trend driving market expansion is the increasing food shortage worldwide, leading to the exploration of alternative protein sources. Edible insects, rich in nutrients, offer a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to address this issue. Another growth factor is the incorporation of edible insects in processed foods, providing novel textures and flavors to consumers. 
However, the market faces challenges, including the low acceptance of insects as a food source in some cultures and societies. Despite these hurdles, the potential benefits of edible insects as a nutritious and sustainable food source are compelling, making this an exciting and dynamic market to watch.

What will be the Size of the Edible Insects Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market represents a burgeoning alternative protein source, gaining traction due to increasing concerns over resource scarcity and environmental degradation. As the global population continues to grow, the demand for sustainable, protein-rich food sources becomes more pressing. Insects, with their low ecological footprint and high nutritional value, offer a compelling solution. These small organisms boast impressive amino acid profiles and essential minerals, making them a valuable addition to human diets. The market's growth is fueled by the circular economy ethos, as insects can be reared on byproducts from various industries, reducing waste. Consumers, particularly those adopting a more conscious and sustainable lifestyle, are embracing insect-based products.
Retail outlets have responded by stocking a diverse range of insect-derived items, from cricket pasta to protein bars. Moreover, the environmental benefits of insect farming are significant, with lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock farming. As awareness of these advantages spreads, the market is poised for continued expansion. Insects are not only a promising solution for human food but also for animal feed, making them a versatile and essential component of the food industries' future.

How is this Edible Insects Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The edible insects industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Application

  Human consumption
  Animal nutrition
  Cosmetics and pharmaceuticals


Product Type

  Whole insects
  Insect powder
  Insect meal


Geography

  APAC

    China
    South Korea
    Thailand


  North America

    US


  Europe

    UK


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Application Insights

The human consumption segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Insects, as a food source, have been part of human diets for over 7,000 years, with approximately 2,300 edible species identified. These invertebrates offer significant nutritional benefits, including high protein content, fiber, essential minerals, and vital nutrients. For instance, grasshoppers provide protein equivalent to lean ground beef. Insect farming, also known as entomology, has gained traction due to its resource efficiency, requiring less land than traditional livestock farming. With the global population projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for alternative protein sources is increasing. Insects, as a sustainable and nutrient-dense option, can help mitigate resource scarcity and environmental degradation.

Insect-based products, including cricket protein powder, mealworms, and ant larvae, are gaining popularity In the food industries. Companies like Six Foods, Gathr Foods, and Chirps are leading the new product development in this sector. Insects are also suitable for athletes and individuals following ketogenic or paleo diets due to their high protein and low carbohydrate content. Despite the growing awareness and acceptance, ethical and psychological barriers remain. Insects are a rich source of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. The environmental benefits of insect farming include reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller ecological footprint compared to animal-based protein sources. Insect farming also complies with environmental regulations and offers potential as a solution to the increasing demand for protein-rich food while addressing resource scarcity.

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The Human consumption segment was valued at USD 372.00 million in

This statistic depicts the forecast market value of edible insects worldwide from 2021 to 2032. In 2021, the estimated market value of edible insects amounted to 3.2 million U.S. dollars, and is forecast to increase to about 17.6 billion U.S. dollars by 2032.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Edible Insect market size will be USD 7325.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 38.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2930.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 36.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 2197.56 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1684.80 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 366.26 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 146.50 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 37.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Whole category is the fastest growing segment of the Edible Insect industry

Market Dynamics of Edible Insect Market

Key Drivers for Edible Insect Market

Rising livestock and poultry greenhouse gas emissions need alternative protein sources to Boost Market Growth

At present, livestock flesh is the primary source of protein produced globally. Livestock is raised on approximately 70% of agricultural land and 30% of the planet's total land to satisfy the global protein demand. Consequently, it is neither sustainable nor practicable to allocate additional land for livestock production. Additionally, the environment has already been significantly impacted by the global livestock industry's extensive use of water and land.. More greenhouse gases are released by the livestock industry than by aircraft, railroads, and automobiles combined. The incorporation of high-quality alternative protein sources, such as consumable insects, has become essential in order to mitigate pollution, habitat devastation, and the exploitation of natural resources, given the current dietary patterns of the population. For instance, Population Reference Bureau (PRB): Global population will expand by 75 million each year (1.1%). The global population is projected to reach 9.9 billion by 2050, up 25.3% from ~7.9 billion in 2021. Growth in population will strain food production and supplies. Thus, edible insects, which are high in protein and micronutrients like iron and zinc, might help solve many of the world's population and meat demand issues.

Growing demand for insect protein in animal feed drives market growth

It is anticipated that the demand for livestock products will increase by 70% by 2050 as a result of the exponential growth in human populations and changes in dietary patterns in developing regions, including Asia, Africa, and Latin America and in conjunction with economic development. The prices of livestock products are on the rise as a result of the increasing cost of feed. The primary protein sources for animal feed are soybean meal and fish. Nevertheless, these sources are in competition with the production of sustenance for human consumption. Additionally, the overexploitation of marine resources has resulted in a decline in the availability of fishmeal, which has led to a significant increase in the cost of these feed ingredients. Therefore, the pursuit of sustainable alternatives has resulted in an increasing interest in the use of insects as feed ingredients.

Restraint Factor for the Edible Insect Market

Absence of regulatory clarity, will Limit Market Growth

In numerous nations, the consumption of insects as sustenance is either not explicitly prohibited or is regulated by ambiguous legal provisions. It is challenging for businesses to ensure legal compliance with respect to the sourcing, preparation, and sale of palatable insects due to the absence of established criteria. A product must possess certifications such as organic, halal, and kosher or adhere to specific food safety regulations in order to be trusted by consumers and accepted in the market. Nevertheless, producers face challenges in obtaining and presenting these credentials in the absence of relevant legislation that explicitly outlines the specifications for these in...

Edible Insects Market size was valued at USD 874 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3048.1 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 16.90% from 2024 to 2031.

Key Market Drivers:

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits: One of the primary drivers of the edible insects market is the substantial environmental benefits of insect farming. Insects require fewer resources such as land, water and feed than traditional livestock. Furthermore, they emit fewer greenhouse gases making them a more sustainable option. As concerns about climate change and resource scarcity mount, edible insect’s environmental benefits become more appealing to both consumers and farmers.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits: Edible insects are high in key elements including protein, vitamins and minerals making them an important part of the human diet. They provide a complete protein source including all essential amino acids as well as iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. This nutritional profile appeals to health-conscious customers and those looking for alternative protein sources which will drive market expansion as more people become aware of the benefits.
Economic Viability and Market Opportunities: Insect farming is more cost-effective than traditional cattle production, providing considerable economic advantages. Insects have excellent feed conversion efficiencies may be raised from organic waste and have rapid growth and reproduction rates resulting in cheaper production costs. Furthermore, the diversity of product options such as insect protein powders, bars and snacks as well as novel culinary uses is opening up new market prospects. Increased investment in R&D as well as supportive legislative frameworks are paving the road for market growth and consumer acceptability.

This statistic depicts the projected market value of edible insects worldwide in 2018 and 2023, by region. According to the report, the market value of edible insects in Europe is forecast to reach 261.5 million U.S. dollars by 2023.

The edible insects market size was valued at USD 1.54 billion in 2024 and is likely to cross USD 17.02 billion by 2037, registering more than 20.3% CAGR during the forecast period i.e., between 2025-2037. North America industry is estimated to dominate majority revenue share by 2037, impelled by increased awareness amongst the population and increasing prices of commercial and residential spaces.

The Global Edible Insects Market Report is Segmented by Insect Type (Beetles, Caterpillars, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, Tree Bugs, and Other Insect Types), Product Type (As A Whole, and As Ingredient), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle-East & Africa). The Report Offers the Market Size in Value Terms in USD for all the Abovementioned Segments.

This statistic depicts the estimated market value of edible insects in United States from 2015 to 2023, by food category . According to the report, the market value of the edible insect snack category amounted to one million U.S. dollars, and is forecast to reach 14 million dollars in the U.S. by 2023.

Europe Edible Insects Market by Product (Insect Powder, Insect Meal, Insect Oil), Insect Type (Crickets, Black Soldier Fly, Mealworms, Ants, Grasshoppers), Application (Animal Feed, Pet Food, Protein Bar & Shakes, Bakery, Confectionery) - Forecast to 2032

The Edible Insects Market encompasses various product segments:Whole Insects: Consumed as a whole, either fresh, dried, or frozen.Insect-Based Ingredients: Used as an ingredient in a variety of products, such as protein powder, flour, and oil.Processed Insect Products: Ready-to-eat products, such as insect burgers, chips, and snacks. Recent developments include: January 2023: By completing the building of Ynfarm, the largest insect farm in the world, Yensect increased its footprint and sped up the supply of its products to customers., September 2022: Aspire Food Group, a Canadian company famous for its cutting-edge insect agricultural and food technology, and Lotte Confectionery, a prominent South Korean snack and ice cream manufacturer, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate the fields of protein alternatives and edible insects., February 2022: A Singaporean business called FeedWerkz, specializing in insect farming, is launching a line of fully integrated pet meals under Conscious Creatures. Environmentally conscious pet owners love the CC dog treats because they are wholesome, sustainable, and tasty. Insects that have been responsibly generated serve as the main element in pet food items.. Notable trends are: Growing easy availability and high protein content is driving the market growth.

[221+ Pages Report] The global Edible Insects market size was valued at USD 0.51 billion in 2021 and is estimated to reach USD 1.8 billion by 2028, at a CAGR value of 18.2% from 2022 to 2028.

Theinsect protein marketis anticipated to grow from a 2023 value of US$ 602.3 million to a 2033 value at a CAGR of 17.7%. The global market is expected to be worth US$ 3.1 billion by 2033.

Segmentation Outlook

Regional Outlook

The insect protein market is experiencing rapid growth, projected to reach a value of $0.50 billion in 2025 and exhibiting a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 45.88%. This surge is driven by several key factors. Increasing consumer awareness of the environmental and nutritional benefits of insect protein is a primary driver. Insect farming requires significantly less land and water than traditional livestock farming, making it a more sustainable protein source. Furthermore, insects are a highly efficient source of protein, containing essential amino acids and other valuable nutrients. The growing demand for sustainable and alternative protein sources, fueled by concerns about climate change and food security, is further bolstering market expansion. This is particularly evident in developed regions like North America and Europe, where consumer interest in novel food products is high. However, the market also faces challenges including overcoming consumer perceptions and regulatory hurdles related to the novelty of insect-based foods. Successful market penetration hinges on effective marketing campaigns that highlight the benefits while addressing concerns regarding palatability and cultural acceptance. The diverse applications of insect protein across animal feed, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals are key to the market's expansion trajectory. The segmentation across various insect species (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Hymenoptera, etc.) and geographical regions indicates diverse market opportunities and unique challenges within specific niches. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests continued robust growth, propelled by ongoing research and development in insect farming technologies and product diversification. The expansion into new markets and applications, especially in developing economies with high protein demand, presents significant opportunities. Companies are strategically focusing on product innovation, expanding their distribution channels, and forging strategic partnerships to capitalize on this expanding market. However, maintaining consistent quality control, ensuring scalability of insect farming operations, and navigating evolving regulations are crucial for sustained market success. Future growth will depend on overcoming challenges related to production costs, addressing potential supply chain limitations, and fostering wider consumer acceptance through effective marketing and education. Competitor analysis reveals a dynamic landscape with numerous players vying for market share, demanding continuous innovation and strategic adaptation.

The global insect-based ingredients market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of sustainable and ethical food sources, coupled with the rising demand for alternative protein sources. The market, valued at $39.59 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit significant expansion over the forecast period (2025-2033). While a precise CAGR is unavailable, considering the market drivers and global trends toward sustainable food solutions, a conservative estimate places the CAGR between 15-20% for the period. This growth is fueled by several factors. Firstly, the growing global population and increasing concerns about food security are pushing the exploration of alternative protein sources, and insects offer a highly efficient and sustainable solution. Secondly, the environmental benefits of insect farming compared to traditional livestock are becoming increasingly apparent, attracting consumers and investors alike. Finally, advancements in insect processing technologies are enabling the production of high-quality, palatable insect-based ingredients for diverse applications. The market segmentation reveals significant opportunities across various product types (tablets, powders, liquids) and applications (cosmetics, dietary supplements, food additives). While the exact market share for each segment isn't specified, the data suggests a strong presence across all sectors. The leading players, including Ynsect, Protix, and AgriProtein, are actively investing in research and development, expanding production capabilities, and exploring new market segments. Regional growth is expected to be geographically diverse, with North America and Europe leading the market initially due to higher consumer awareness and regulatory acceptance. However, rapidly developing economies in Asia-Pacific and other regions are poised to experience significant growth in the coming years, driven by increasing demand for affordable and sustainable protein sources. The market's success will hinge on overcoming consumer perception challenges related to entomophagy, alongside the development of robust regulatory frameworks and efficient supply chains. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the burgeoning insect-based ingredients market, projected to reach $8 billion by 2030. We examine the market's concentration, key trends, dominant regions, and leading players, offering invaluable insights for businesses seeking to capitalize on this innovative and sustainable industry. Keywords: Insect protein, edible insects, insect farming, entomophagy, insect-based food, sustainable food, alternative protein, insect flour, insect powder, insect oil.

The Insect-based Protein Market size was valued at USD 153.92 USD Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 285.55 USD Million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.23 % during the forecast period Insect proteins are high-quality feedstock obtained from insects that can be used as an ingredient for feed for animals, pets, and fish. They are a new food and feed source, and an effort to move away from the traditional sources of proteins like meat and soy. Insects are rich in amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, making them a highly nutritious food source. Edible insects are considered one most interesting protein sources of a large proportion of food insecurity. It contains nutrients like zinc, amino acids, and vitamins. Insect protein is used in human food, pet food, fish feed, and animal feed. There is the nutritional content of insects depends on their species' diet, and stage of the life cycle. Insects pro-high-quality protein and nutrients for humans and animals comparable with those provided by meat and fish They are also rich in fibre and micronutrients such as copper, copper, iron and magnesium. Edible insects exhibit many sustainability and nutritional advantages compared to conventional animal protein sources. Key drivers for this market are: Expansion of International Brands in Saudi Arabia to Fuel Market Growth. Potential restraints include: High-Cost Constraint Market Growth .

The Global Insect-based Ingredients Market is segmented by usage into insect-based animal feed, insect-based pharmaceutical products, insect-based human food and beverage, and others; by insect type into Beetles, Caterpillar, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, Tree Bugs, and other Insect Types and geography.

Consuming insects is a possible alternative to meat consumption that has few detrimental impacts on the environment and human health. Whether novel foods made from insects will become established in Western societies in the coming years depends largely on their acceptance by the respective populations. Numerous studies on the acceptance of insects as a novel food have already been conducted. In this systematic review, the main findings of quantitative, experimental, and tasting studies on the acceptance of insects as a novel food are summarized. The present paper is designed to serve as an orientation for practitioners in the food industry and provides information useful for the design of marketing strategies and target group-oriented product development. In addition, we highlight in which fields future studies could be conducted to further improve the understanding of the acceptance of insects as food in Western societies.

The Insect Snacks Market offers a wide range of products, each catering to specific consumer preferences and dietary needs. These products can be classified based on insect type, including Coleoptera (beetles), Lepidoptera (moths), Hymenoptera (ants, bees), and Orthoptera (crickets, grasshoppers). Packaging options include cans for extended shelf life and pouches for convenience and portability. End-user segments encompass food retail, where insect snacks are sold through grocery stores and supermarkets, and food service, targeting restaurants, cafes, and catering businesses. Recent developments include: March 2022: Aspire Food Group, a Canadian company renowned for its cutting-edge insect agriculture and food technology, and Lotte Confectionery, a leading South Korean snack and ice cream manufacturer, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate in the areas of protein alternatives and edible insects., January 2022: By doubling the size of the production facility for black farm soldier flies in Decatur, Illinois, the French company InnovaFeed has increased the market for edible insects with a USD 250 million investment backed by ADM and Cargill., February 2021: The ValuSect group of European insect producers has offered 18 edible insect businesses services worth EUR 460,000 (USD 496,600). The chosen businesses will receive assistance from knowledgeable partners as they develop their creative idea, which will increase insect production and consumer acceptance in North-West Europe.. Notable trends are: The rising importance of farming is driving the market growth.

The Korea insect feed market is estimated to be worth USD 27.1 million in 2025 and is anticipated to reach a value of USD 173.6 million by 2035.Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 20.4% over the forecast period between 2025 and 2035. The demand for insect feed in Korea is likely to increase rapidly.

Segment-Wise Analysis