Entomophagy: A sustainable alternative towards food security

Abstract

Alternative proteins are mostly sought after because they are more sustainable than conventional protein sources. Prioritizing efforts to create more sustainable alternatives to animal proteins help to address the world's food scarcity and climate change issues. Edible insects in human foods and animal feeds is deemed to play a key role in future sustainable initiatives. In comparison to plant proteins, insect proteins have a higher total protein concentration and good amino acid composition. Due to their substantial levels of high-quality protein and other nutrients, they are considered superior to animal proteins. The market for insect protein is expected to grow significantly between 2022 and 2030, according to various forecasts. In particular, this review explains in detail the most recent developments in the insect protein space. This review assesses the current state of insects as an alternative protein source from production to application and also discusses on associated consumer acceptance. Overall, insect protein products appear to be a good substitute for traditional protein-rich products while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and it can also be a good way to deal with a protein supply deficit. Although, more research studies are needed to further explore its effect on digestibility, product performance, product quality, and health.