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 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

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.

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

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.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Edible Insect market size was 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

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 insect-related certifications.

Opportunity for the 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 micro...

Global Edible Insects Market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of around 28.87% during the forecast period 2025-30, A surge in the demand for black soldier fly (BSF)-based products is one of the growth opportunities driving the Edible Insects Market.

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.

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.

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.

This statistic depicts the estimated market value of edible insects in United States in 2021 and 2022. According to the report, the market value of edible insects in the U.S. amounted to ****** million U.S. dollars in 2021.

South East Asia Edible Insect Market by Product (Whole Insect, Insect Powder, Insect Meal), Insect Type (Crickets, Black Soldier Fly, Mealworms, Ants), Application (Animal Feed, Protein Bar & Shakes, Bakery, Confectionery), and Country - Forecast to 2032

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

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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 for Animal Feed Market Report is Segmented by Insect Species (Black Soldier Fly, Mealworms, Crickets, and More), by Form (Whole Dried, Powdered Meal, and More), by Application (Aquafeed, Poultry Feed, Swine Feed, and More), and by Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, Africa, and Middle East). The Report Offers the Market Size and Forecasts in Terms of Value (USD).

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.

Edible Insects Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the edible insects market size reached USD 1.68 billion globally in 2024, reflecting robust momentum in consumer acceptance and industrial adoption. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 24.6% from 2025 to 2033, projecting a substantial increase to approximately USD 14.1 billion by the end of the forecast period. This remarkable growth trajectory is primarily driven by the increasing demand for sustainable protein sources and the growing recognition of edible insects as a viable alternative to conventional animal-based proteins, as per our latest research findings.

One of the most significant growth factors propelling the edible insects market is the rising awareness about environmental sustainability. Traditional livestock farming is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions, extensive land use, and considerable water consumption. In contrast, insect farming offers a substantially lower environmental footprint, requiring less feed, land, and water while emitting fewer greenhouse gases. This alignment with global sustainability goals has attracted both eco-conscious consumers and policy advocates, further stimulating market growth. Additionally, the ability of insects to convert organic waste into high-quality protein makes them an attractive solution for circular economy initiatives, driving further interest from governments and environmental organizations worldwide.

Another key driver is the nutritional profile of edible insects, which are rich in essential amino acids, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. With the escalating prevalence of protein deficiency and malnutrition in developing regions, edible insects offer a cost-effective and nutrient-dense alternative to traditional protein sources. The food and beverage industry, in particular, is increasingly incorporating insect-based ingredients into mainstream products such as protein bars, snacks, and powders. This trend is supported by a growing body of scientific research highlighting the health benefits of insect consumption, including improved gut health and immune function, which has helped to overcome some of the cultural and psychological barriers associated with entomophagy.

Technological advancements and product innovations have also played a pivotal role in market expansion. Companies are leveraging advanced processing techniques to enhance the taste, texture, and safety of insect-based products, making them more palatable and appealing to a broader consumer base. The emergence of value-added products such as insect protein bars, powders, and ready-to-eat snacks has diversified the market and facilitated entry into new distribution channels, including supermarkets, specialty stores, and online retail platforms. This increased accessibility, combined with effective marketing strategies and educational campaigns, has contributed to the mainstreaming of edible insects in several regions.

Regionally, Asia Pacific continues to dominate the edible insects market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed closely by Europe and North America. The longstanding tradition of insect consumption in countries such as Thailand, China, and Vietnam underpins the region’s leadership, while regulatory support and innovation drive growth in Western markets. Europe, in particular, is witnessing rapid expansion due to favorable regulatory frameworks and increasing consumer openness to novel foods. North America is emerging as a key growth frontier, with rising investments in insect farming and product development, although cultural acceptance remains a challenge. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showing promising growth, supported by increasing awareness and government initiatives aimed at addressing food security challenges.

Product Type Analysis

The edible insects market is segmented by product type into whole insects, insect powder, insect protein bars, insect snacks, and others. Whole insects remain a staple in traditional markets, particularly in Asia Pacific and Africa, where they are consumed as delicacies o

This statistic depicts the estimated market value of edible insects in United States in 2017, by application. According to the report, market value of edible beetles in the U.S. amounted to 1.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2017.