Abstract
Edible insects as an alternative source of protein are discussed as an important contribution to future feed and food security. However, it has to be ensured that the consumption is non-hazardous. This systematic review summarizes findings concerning contaminations of insects with mycotoxins and heavy metal ions (SciFinder, Pubmed, until 26 June 2019). Both kinds of contaminants were reported to reduce growth performance and increase mortality in insects. There was no evidence for accumulation of various mycotoxins analyzed in distinct insect species. However, further research is necessary due to limitation of data. Since the gut content contributes relevantly to the total body burden of contaminants in insects, a starving period before harvesting is recommended. Contrary, accumulation of heavy metal ions occurred to a varying extent dependent on metal type, insect species, and developmental stage. Examples are the accumulation of cadmium (black soldier fly) and arsenic (yellow mealworm). The reported species-specific accumulation and metabolism patterns of contaminants emphasize the importance to assess potential safety hazards in a case-by-case approach. Subject to regular monitoring of contaminants, the general ban in the European Union to use waste in animal feed should also be questioned regarding insect farming.
Highlights
In the context of an increasing world population, the search for alternative protein sources to support future food security is a highly important topic
While the insect species itself intended to be used for feed or food in most cases do not pose an imminent risk to animals or humans, the major risk was identified to originate from the rearing substrate used in the insect farming
Substrates contaminated with mycotoxins or heavy metals may cause adverse effects on survivability and growth performance of the insects
Summary
In the context of an increasing world population, the search for alternative protein sources to support future food security is a highly important topic. These specifications apply to both the farming of the insects as well as to using insects as animal feedstock. Our review article supports future feed and food safety assessments related to the use of insects as a novel protein source in animal feed and for human consumption by providing a comprehensive summary of current literature data available on potential hazards. Besides the potential risk for the health of animals and humans, the impact of both mycotoxins and heavy metals on the insects will be considered in terms of an economic and safe farming procedure
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