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Edible Insects Market Size 2024-2028

The edible insects market size is valued to increase by USD 11.42 billion, at a CAGR of 46.02% from 2023 to 2028. Growing food shortage across the globe will drive the edible insects market.

Market Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 43% growth during the 2024-2028.
By Application - Human consumption segment was valued at USD 372.00 billion in 2022
By Product Type - Whole insects segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 1.00 million 
Market Future Opportunities 2023: USD 11422.90 million
CAGR from 2023 to 2028 : 46.02%

Market Summary

The market has emerged as a promising niche in the global food industry, driven by the growing food shortage and the increasing awareness of sustainable food sources. Edible insects, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, offer a viable solution to address the nutritional needs of a growing population, particularly in regions where traditional food sources are scarce. Despite their nutritional benefits, the acceptance of edible insects as a food source remains low in many parts of the world. However, the use of insects in processed foods, such as energy bars, snacks, and pet food, is gaining traction. This trend is driven by the demand for sustainable and high-protein food options, as well as the increasing popularity of exotic and novel food products. One real-world business scenario that highlights the potential of the market is the optimization of supply chains. For instance, a food processing company could partner with a local insect farm to ensure a steady supply of high-quality insects for their products. This collaboration would not only reduce transportation costs and carbon emissions but also ensure compliance with food safety regulations and operational efficiency. However, challenges such as consumer acceptance, regulatory frameworks, and production scale-up remain significant barriers to the growth of the market. Despite these challenges, the market is expected to continue gaining momentum as more companies explore the potential of edible insects as a sustainable and nutritious food source.

What will be the size of the Edible Insects Market during the forecast period?

Get Key Insights on Market Forecast (PDF) Request Free SampleThe market represents a burgeoning industry, with businesses increasingly exploring insects as a sustainable and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional animal-derived proteins. Insects, such as crickets, mealworms, and grasshoppers, are gaining traction as valuable sources of protein for human consumption and as feed ingredients. This shift is driven by several factors, including farm waste reduction, allergen mitigation strategies, and the economic viability of insect farming. For instance, insect breeding programs have shown a significant reduction in production yield optimization, with some operations achieving up to 20 metric tons of insect biomass per hectare annually. Moreover, the implementation of quality control measures and automation in insect production has led to improved processing waste minimization and energy consumption reduction. Insect farming scalability and vertical farming optimization have been crucial factors in the industry's growth. Sustainable insect feed and nutritional bioavailability have also been key areas of focus, with research emphasizing the importance of sustainable agriculture practices and insect by-product valorization. As regulatory bodies continue to assess the novel food status of edible insects, companies are investing in traceability systems and insect product labeling to ensure consumer perception studies reflect positively on the industry. Insect protein digestibility and environmental impact assessments are also under scrutiny, with ongoing research aimed at improving sustainability and reducing the industry's carbon footprint. Insect farming intensification and processing technology advancements are expected to further propel market growth, with potential applications in various sectors, including food, feed, and pharmaceuticals. As businesses navigate this evolving landscape, they must consider the economic viability models, biosecurity protocols, and insect gut microbiome to ensure long-term success.

Unpacking the Edible Insects Market Landscape

Edible insects have emerged as a promising alternative protein source for the food industry, offering several business advantages. Compared to traditional animal protein sources, insect farming requires significantly less land and water, with a feed conversion ratio of 1:1 versus 10:1 for livestock (FAO, 2013). Furthermore, insects boast impressive amino acid profiles, aligning with human nutritional requirements and surpassing those of soy and rice (FAO, 2013).

Innovations in insect farming tec

The Edible Insects Market size was valued at USD 0.65 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.29 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.7 % during the forecasts period. The edible insect market entails the cultivation and consumption within the food chain of insects as a novel food source that is safe for human consumption. Crickets, for instance, mealworms, and grasshoppers offer a health-enriched source of protein, vitamins, and minerals or as Rock Beatles refer to it – ‘Bio beef’. Applications are general food items including whole insects, snacks, proteins, protein supplements, and prescription foods such as pasta and protein bars. This is due to the increasing concern for ecology today and the fact that farming insects are much more effective from the standpoint of saving resources – land, water, and feed, compared with conventional farming of livestock. Regarding trends, they are continually shifting and broadening their acceptance in the Western world, mixing it in pet foods, and new processing methods as well as types of products that make it tastier. Being a product of advancing technology, the market is set for growth especially due to the increasing consumer concern on aspect of environmental conservation.

Introduction

Edible Insects Statistics: Edible insects are gaining favor as a sustainable and nourishing food choice, emerging as a notable trend.

Abundant in protein, vitamins, and minerals, they provide an environmentally friendly substitute for conventional livestock farming, requiring less land, water, and feed.

With a history of consumption spanning various cultures over centuries, insects are now entering mainstream diets, driven by growing concerns regarding health and environmental issues.

Despite being at an early stage, the edible insect market displays growth potential. With an array of products like protein bars and snacks hitting the market.

As consumers increasingly prioritize health and sustainability, edible insects stand to influence the future landscape of food production and consumption significantly.

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.

Edible Insects Market by Product Type (Whole Insects, Insect Powder), Insect Type (Crickets, Mealworms, Black Soldier Flies, Buffalo Worms, Grasshoppers), Application (Food and Beverages, Feed and Pet Food), End User, & Geography - Global Forecast to 2035

The Edible Insects Market Report is Segmented by Insect Type (Beetles, Caterpillars, Crickets and Grasshoppers (Orthoptera), and More), Product Type (Whole Insects and Ingredient Type), Distribution Channel (Online and Offline), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Middle East, and Africa). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Edible Insects Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global edible insects market size reached USD 1.57 billion in 2024, reflecting significant momentum in alternative protein adoption worldwide. The market demonstrated a robust growth trajectory, registering a CAGR of 23.6% from 2018 to 2024, and is forecasted to reach USD 12.54 billion by 2033 as per our CAGR analysis. This exponential growth is primarily driven by rising consumer awareness about sustainable protein sources, increasing demand for nutrient-rich food alternatives, and the urgent need to address environmental challenges linked to traditional animal agriculture. As per our latest research, a growing number of food innovators and regulatory bodies are recognizing the potential of edible insects as a viable solution for food security and environmental sustainability.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the edible insects market is the mounting global pressure on traditional protein sources, such as beef, poultry, and fish. The livestock industry is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water scarcity, prompting governments and organizations to seek eco-friendly alternatives. Edible insects require substantially less land, water, and feed compared to conventional livestock, while offering high protein content, essential amino acids, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. This unique nutritional profile, coupled with their minimal environmental footprint, has positioned edible insects as a sustainable protein option for both human consumption and animal nutrition. As a result, the market is witnessing heightened investments in insect farming technologies, research and development, and innovative product formulations to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Consumer acceptance and mainstream adoption of insect-based products are further accelerated by increasing awareness campaigns, culinary innovations, and endorsements from influential chefs and food industry leaders. Food and beverage companies are launching a wide array of insect-based products, including protein bars, snacks, pasta, and baked goods, targeting health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. Additionally, the growing popularity of fitness and wellness trends has driven demand for high-protein, low-carb, and allergen-friendly food options, which edible insects uniquely fulfill. Regulatory support in regions such as Europe and the Asia Pacific is also playing a crucial role in standardizing safety protocols, labeling requirements, and quality assurance, thereby fostering consumer trust and market expansion.

The regional outlook for the edible insects market is highly promising, with Asia Pacific currently leading in both production and consumption due to longstanding cultural acceptance of entomophagy. Europe is emerging as a key growth region, driven by favorable regulatory frameworks and increasing consumer openness to alternative proteins. North America is witnessing rapid growth, supported by a surge in startups, investments, and product launches, although consumer education remains a challenge. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually gaining traction, with innovative business models and government initiatives encouraging the integration of edible insects into local diets and animal feed. This regional diversification is expected to further catalyze the global growth and adoption of edible insects across various applications.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment within the edible insects market encompasses whole insects, insect powder, insect meal, insect oil, and other niche formats. Whole insects, such as roasted crickets and mealworms, have traditionally dominated markets with a history of entomophagy, especially in Asia Pacific and parts of Africa. However, the growing demand for more palatable and versatile ingredients has led to a surge in the popularity of insect powder and insect meal. Insect powders are increasingly used as protein-rich additives in bakery items, protein bars, and smoothies, offering a neutral taste and easy integration into Western diets. This shift is driven by consumer preferences for convenience, versatility, and the ability to incorporate insects into familiar foods without confronting visual or taste barriers.

Insect meal has gained significant traction in the animal feed industry, particularly in aquaculture, poultry, and pet food segments. The high protein content, favorable amino acid profil

The global market for insects for human consumption is poised for substantial growth, estimated to reach approximately USD 3,500 million by 2025, with a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% projected for the period between 2025 and 2033. This upward trajectory is fueled by a confluence of compelling drivers, primarily the escalating global demand for sustainable and nutrient-rich protein sources. As concerns surrounding conventional livestock farming's environmental impact – including greenhouse gas emissions, land use, and water consumption – intensify, entomophagy, or the practice of eating insects, is emerging as a viable and attractive alternative. The inherent nutritional profile of insects, rich in protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, further bolsters their appeal to health-conscious consumers. Furthermore, a growing awareness and acceptance of insect-based foods, propelled by innovative product development and increased media attention, are dismantling traditional cultural barriers and paving the way for wider adoption. The market is segmented across various applications and types, with "Dining Room" and "Supermarket" applications demonstrating significant potential due to evolving consumer purchasing habits and the introduction of insect-derived ingredients in mainstream food products. Within types, "Mealworms" are anticipated to lead market share, owing to their established cultivation practices and versatile culinary applications, though "Beetle" larvae and other novel insect species are gaining traction. Emerging trends include the development of insect-based flours, snacks, and protein bars, catering to convenience and functional food demands. Restraints, such as regulatory hurdles in certain regions and lingering consumer disgust, are being addressed through education, transparent labeling, and the development of palatable, familiar product formats. Leading companies like Protifarm Holding NV, Protix, and Kreca Ento-Food BV are at the forefront of innovation and market expansion, significantly shaping the competitive landscape.

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 ***** million U.S. dollars by 2023.

Edible Insect Market is anticipated to be USD 15.3 billion by 2032. It is estimated to record a steady CAGR of 18.1%.

Discover the booming market for edible insects! Learn about the driving forces behind this sustainable protein source, explore key players like Protifarm and Protix, and understand the projected growth to $2.98 billion by 2033. Read our in-depth analysis of this exciting and rapidly expanding food sector.

The global insect protein market for food applications is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of sustainable and ethical food sources, coupled with the rising demand for alternative protein options. The market's expansion is fueled by several factors: insect farming's lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock, its high protein content and nutrient density, and its potential to address food security concerns in a growing global population. While the exact market size in 2025 requires further specification, based on industry reports indicating substantial growth potential, a conservative estimate would place the market value around $800 million. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% (a reasonable estimate considering the nascent nature of the industry and its accelerating adoption) suggests a significant increase to approximately $2.8 billion by 2033. Key market segments include various insect species (crickets, mealworms, black soldier flies), processed forms (flours, protein bars, whole insects), and applications (food ingredients, pet food, human consumption). Leading companies like AgriProtein, Ynsect, and Protix are driving innovation and expanding production capacity, but the market also presents significant opportunities for smaller startups and regional players. Despite this growth trajectory, challenges remain, including consumer perception and regulatory hurdles regarding food safety and labeling. Overcoming these barriers through increased consumer education and supportive government policies will be crucial for sustained market expansion. Furthermore, scalability of production and ensuring sustainable farming practices are essential for long-term industry viability. The market is likely to see diversification across product forms and target markets, with increasing sophistication in processing and value-added product development.

The Edible Insect-Based Food Products Market is projected to grow from USD 262M in 2024 to USD 1,145M by 2034 at a CAGR of 16.8%. Rising demand for sustainable proteins, eco-friendly farming, and health-conscious diets is driving this fast-growing global market.

The global market for human consumption of insects is experiencing significant growth, projected to reach an estimated value of $1,500 million by 2025, with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2019 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by a confluence of factors, most notably the increasing global awareness and demand for sustainable and nutritious protein sources. As traditional protein production faces environmental pressures, edible insects emerge as a highly efficient alternative, requiring less land, water, and feed while producing significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions. This environmental advantage is a primary driver for adoption, particularly among environmentally conscious consumers and forward-thinking food manufacturers. Furthermore, the nutritional profile of insects, rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, is gaining traction as consumers seek healthier dietary options to combat lifestyle-related diseases and enhance overall well-being. The rising popularity of insect-based products, ranging from protein bars and flours to snacks and meal ingredients, is also contributing to market expansion, making edible insects more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. The market is further propelled by ongoing innovation in processing and product development, alongside evolving regulatory frameworks that are gradually becoming more favorable for insect-based foods in key regions. While the market demonstrates strong upward momentum, certain restraints, such as consumer perception and cultural acceptance, particularly in Western markets, continue to pose challenges. However, these are being actively addressed through educational campaigns and the integration of insect ingredients into familiar food formats. Key segments within the market include applications like dining rooms and supermarkets, with mealworms and beetles emerging as dominant insect types due to their established cultivation and versatile applications. Geographically, Europe and North America are leading the charge, driven by strong consumer interest in sustainability and novel food sources, though the Asia Pacific region, with its existing entomophagy traditions, presents substantial untapped potential for future growth. Major players are actively investing in research and development, expanding production capacities, and forging strategic partnerships to capitalize on this burgeoning market. This comprehensive report delves into the burgeoning global market for edible insects, exploring its current landscape, future trajectory, and the intricate dynamics shaping its growth. We provide a granular analysis of market concentration, key trends, regional dominance, product insights, and the strategic moves of leading players. With an estimated current market size exceeding 200 million USD, this sector is poised for significant expansion, driven by sustainability concerns, nutritional advantages, and innovative product development.

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

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 *** million U.S. dollars, and is forecast to reach ** million dollars in the U.S. by 2023.

Edible Insect Pasta Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global edible insect pasta market size reached USD 145.2 million in 2024, reflecting a dynamic shift in consumer preferences toward sustainable and protein-rich food alternatives. The market is expanding at a notable CAGR of 18.7% from 2025 to 2033, with projections indicating that the sector will achieve a value of USD 585.7 million by 2033. Key growth drivers include increasing awareness of environmental sustainability, rising demand for alternative protein sources, and the growing acceptance of entomophagy in Western markets. As per our latest research, the edible insect pasta market is poised for robust growth, fueled by innovation, changing dietary habits, and supportive regulatory frameworks.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the edible insect pasta market is the heightened consumer focus on sustainability and environmental conservation. Traditional livestock farming is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, excessive water consumption, and significant land use. In contrast, insects require a fraction of these resources to produce the same amount of protein, making them an environmentally sound alternative. As climate change concerns intensify and consumers seek to reduce their ecological footprints, edible insect pasta is gaining traction as a sustainable food solution. This shift is particularly pronounced among environmentally conscious millennials and Gen Z consumers, who are more willing to embrace novel food products that align with their values.

Another significant driver is the nutritional profile of edible insect pasta, which offers high-quality protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. The inclusion of cricket, mealworm, or grasshopper flours in pasta formulations enhances their nutritional density, making them attractive to health-conscious consumers and fitness enthusiasts. Moreover, as plant-based diets continue to rise globally, there is a growing demand for alternative sources of protein that are both sustainable and nutrient-rich. Edible insect pasta addresses this gap, offering a complete protein source that is gluten-free and suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions. This nutritional advantage is further leveraged by food manufacturers in their marketing campaigns, emphasizing the health benefits to drive wider adoption.

The edible insect pasta market is also benefitting from increased investments in food technology and product innovation. Startups and established food companies are investing in research and development to improve the taste, texture, and visual appeal of insect-based pasta products. Innovations such as blended insect flours, novel pasta shapes, and fortified formulations are helping to overcome the "yuck" factor traditionally associated with insect consumption. Additionally, regulatory bodies in Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific are gradually easing restrictions on edible insect products, providing a favorable environment for market expansion. These efforts are complemented by educational campaigns aimed at demystifying entomophagy and highlighting its benefits, further accelerating market growth.

Edible Insect products are not just limited to pasta; they are part of a broader movement towards sustainable food sources. The inclusion of edible insects in various food items is gaining momentum as consumers become more aware of the environmental benefits. Insects, being cold-blooded, are highly efficient at converting feed into protein, which makes them a sustainable choice. This efficiency is a significant factor in reducing the carbon footprint of food production, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. As awareness grows, edible insect products are expected to become a staple in the diets of those seeking environmentally friendly and nutritious alternatives.

Regionally, Europe has emerged as a frontrunner in the edible insect pasta market, driven by supportive regulations, strong consumer awareness, and a vibrant food innovation ecosystem. The region accounted for the largest market share in 2024, with countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany leading in product launches and consumer acceptance. North America is also experiencing rapid growth, fueled by a burgeoning health and wellness movement and the presence of several pi

Edible Insects Market size was valued at USD 0.874 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3.0481 Billion 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.

The global edible cooking insects market is poised for substantial growth, projected to reach a market size of $788 million by 2025, with a remarkable Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.4%. This upward trajectory is driven by increasing consumer awareness regarding the nutritional benefits and environmental sustainability of insect-based protein. Edible insects are rich in protein, essential fatty acids, and micronutrients, positioning them as a viable alternative to traditional meat sources facing supply chain and environmental pressures. The demand is particularly strong in applications like dining rooms, where innovative culinary preparations are making insects more palatable and appealing to a broader audience. Supermarkets are also beginning to feature these products, further expanding accessibility. The market is segmented by types, with mealworms and beetles emerging as prominent choices, favored for their relatively mild flavor and ease of cultivation. While 'others' represent a smaller segment, ongoing research and development are likely to introduce new edible insect species with unique nutritional profiles and culinary applications. Geographically, North America and Europe are leading the adoption, fueled by a growing population of adventurous eaters and supportive regulatory frameworks. Asia Pacific, with its existing tradition of entomophagy in some regions, also presents significant growth potential. However, challenges such as consumer perception, processing infrastructure development, and regulatory hurdles in certain regions remain key restraints that the industry is actively working to overcome. Here is a unique report description on Edible Cooking Insects, incorporating the specified requirements:

Explore the booming edible insect market, projected to hit $788 million in 2025 with a 12.4% CAGR. Discover key drivers, trends, and segments like beetles and mealworms in this sustainable protein revolution.