The food sector is looking for possible solutions for the protein deficit. Various organizations especially Promoting Insects for Human Consumption & Animal Feed (IPIFF) are conducting activities paving the way for the use of insects in the animal and human diet.

Global population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050 according to UN. The food sector is looking for solutions for the protein deficit due to the increase in per capita protein demand and population growth. Various organizations especially Promoting Insects for Human Consumption & Animal Feed (IPIFF) are conducting activities paving the way for the use of insects as feed.

Insects contain quality protein, vitamins, and amino acids and a high food conversion rate. According to FAO; crickets need six times less feed than cattle, four times less than sheep, and twice less than pigs and broiler chickens to produce the same amount of protein. Besides, they emit less greenhouse gases and ammonia than conventional livestock. Insects can be grown on organic waste so they are a potential source of protein for feedstock mixtures.European Commission allowed the use of insects in aquaculture products in 2017 July. Current authorization is limited to 7 insect species, including 3 types of cricket, 2 types of mealworm, and 2 fly species. The Commission is working on a similar permission for poultry and pigs for 2019. The sector favors the authorization while the political authorities seem to be more cautious due to the concerns regarding health issues and food safety.