Acceptance of insects as protein feed – evidence from pig and poultry farmers in France and in the Netherlands

Abstract

The European protein production deficit in livestock feed is currently being covered by soy imports, especially from America. However, these imports are being criticised for social, ecological and economic reasons. In order to close the European protein gap, alternative protein sources are increasingly being searched for. The use of insects represents an innovative approach, highlighting their advantages of high protein content and good nutrient composition, as well as their sustainable production methods. To establish insects as innovation in the livestock industry, their acceptance along the value chain is essential. The present study analyses the acceptance of insects as an alternative protein source in feed by poultry and pig farmers in France (n=84) and the Netherlands (n=182). The study results indicate that French and Dutch livestock farmers would use insects as an alternative protein feed, because their usefulness and benefits are paramount. The importance of support by family and farm members as well as colleagues is confirmed in this study, whereas perceptions of effort and risk are not significant influencing factors. Furthermore, age, gender, freedom to choose feed components, and nationality do not significantly determine the main effects of the model. Overall, the results of the study indicate a positive perception in both countries of insects as feed, which is a good prerequisite for the introduction of insects as feed as an innovation.