High Conversion Ratio Research Articles

Flexible substrate based wideband polarization converter with extremely high polarization conversion ratio

In this article an anticipated reflection-mode cross-polarization converters (CPCs) are designed on a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based flexible substrate operating in the GHz region. The proposed CPC metasurface comprises three layers where a flexible substrate is endwise between the resonating layer and ground layers. The converter can convert linear to circular and circular to cross-polarized waves at the frequency range of 5–8 GHz, as evidenced by the identical amplitude of Rxx and Ryx and a phase difference of 90°. More than 99 % of the polarization conversion ratio (PCR) was performed between the 6.75 and 9.07 GHz frequency range, while more than 80 % of the PCR was performed between the 6.0 and 10.73 GHz frequency range. The highest PCR values show nearly flawless energy conversion from an x-polarized incident wave to a y-polarized reflected wave. The PCR ratio of 80 % is achieved by this ultra-wideband linear-to-cross- and circular-to-cross-polarization converter. The anticipated converter's spectrum for all incidence angles between 0◦ and 60°. The PCR remained higher than 99 % over a wide incidence angle range to 60° without much performance degradation. The bending stability of the PDMS-based flexible substrate is also investigated up to 60°. The structure is fabricated on a flexible substrate, and the measured performance is compared with simulated results. Radar, antenna, and communications systems, as well as other cross-polarization converters, can utilize the transmitted wave's very high polarization purity result.

Improved ultra voltage gain switched inductor based-Y-Source DC/DC converter with low device stress

ABSTRACT This article proposesanImproved ultra-high voltage gain Switched Inductor-Based Y-Source Converter (SI-YSC) forphotovoltaic (PV) and Fuel Cell (FC) applications. A single switch is employed to generate a high voltage boost at the load, and this topology provides a high voltage conversion ratio, minimal voltage stress on the switch, and continuous input current. The paper comprehensively examines passive components’ steady-state operation, design, and analysis. In addition, in order to comprehend the projected lifespan of the topology in different environments and operating conditions, the converter’s reliability is assessed to determine the mean time to failure of each component. To demonstrate the advantages of the proposed topology, an in-depth comparison is conducted between it and other Y source converters. The circuit design is verified using MATLAB/Simulink and a prototype model for an output power of 100 W. The results of this verification process are then analysed and discussed.

An Entrained Flow Biomass Gasification Technology with the Fluidized Bed Concept for Low-carbon Fuel Production

For accomplishing the vision of building of a net-emission zero society, low-carbon fuels such as e-fuel, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and chemical products generation, plays a significant role. Especially, among the low carbon fuels, SAF is the most crucial. Ammonia and electric aircraft are under way as alternatives to fossil-derived jet fuel (kerosene). However, none of these have yet found their way to commercialization. Among the SAF production technology, biomass gasification and Fischer-Tropsch (FT) synthesis technology are one of the lowest CO2 emission processes, according to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis. However, at present there are some issues about biomass grinding, tar, ash treatment, gas purification and wastewater. We, at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) R&D laboratory have developed entrained bed gasification, adopting the fluidized bed concept in which biomass particles are recirculated in the gasifier without fluidizer. Principally desired outcomes of this development was to reduce the grinding power, simplify the structure by using atmospheric pressure process, and lower tar concentration while maintain suitable temperature to prevent ash from melting inside gasifier. Empirical and actual results showed that the developed gasifier can obtain high carbon conversion ratio and low tar as compared to the traditional gasification processes for low-carbon fuel production and produce reliably stable syngas for low-carbon fuel synthesis with single gasifier. Based on the pilot plant operation results, effectiveness of moderate (1223 – 1323 K) temperature gasification with this concept has been demonstrated too. As a conclusion, development needs and expectation of gasification technology for contributing to carbon neutral society are mentioned.

Integrating Multi-Omics Data to Identify Key Functional Variants Affecting Feed Efficiency in Large White Boars.

Optimizing feed efficiency through the feed conversion ratio (FCR) is paramount for economic viability and sustainability. In this study, we integrated RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data to investigate key functional variants associated with feed efficiency in pigs. Identification of differentially expressed genes in the duodenal and muscle tissues of low- and high-FCR pigs revealed that pathways related to digestion of dietary carbohydrate are responsible for differences in feed efficiency between individuals. Differential open chromatin regions identified by ATAC-seq were linked to genes involved in glycolytic and fatty acid processes. GWAS identified 211 significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with feed efficiency traits, with candidate genes PPP1R14C, TH, and CTSD. Integration of duodenal ATAC-seq data and GWAS data identified six key functional variants, particularly in the 1500985-1509676 region on chromosome 2. In those regions, CTSD was found to be highly expressed in the duodenal tissues of pigs with a high feed conversion ratio, suggesting its role as a potential target gene. Overall, the integration of multi-omics data provided insights into the genetic basis of feed efficiency, offering valuable information for breeding more efficient pig breeds.

A new high step-down soft-switched DC–DC converter based on coupled inductor

ABSTRACT This study introduces a new non-isolated DC–DC converter capable of achieving a high step-down conversion ratio. The design reduces switching losses through soft-switching, allowing switches to operate under Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS), which enhances efficiency. The converter employs a single coupled inductor without additional inductors in the power path, achieving low voltage gain and an extended duty cycle, resulting in reduced losses, lower costs, and optimal efficiency compared to similar topologies. Voltage stress on semiconductors is minimised by recycling leakage inductance energy to the output. The proposed converter achieves a greater step-down voltage gain per component compared to similar designs. Different operational modes and design aspects are examined. A prototype was constructed, and experimental results confirmed the theoretical analysis.

Non-Ideal Push–Pull Converter Model: Trade-Off between Complexity and Practical Feasibility in Terms of Topology, Power and Operating Frequency

Power converters are the basic elements of any power electronics system in many areas and applications. Among them, the push–pull converter topology is one of the most widespread due to its high efficiency, versatility, galvanic isolation, reduced number of switching devices and the possibility of implementing high conversion ratios with respect to non-isolated topologies. Optimal design and control requires very accurate models that consider all the non-idealities associated with the actual converter. However, this leads to the use of high-order models, which are impractical for the design of model-based controllers in real-time applications. To obtain a trade-off model that combines the criteria of simplicity and accuracy, it is appropriate to assess whether it is necessary to consider all non-idealities to accurately model the dynamic response of the converter. For this purpose, this paper proposes a methodology based on a sensitivity analysis that allows quantifying the impact of each non-ideality on the converter behaviour response as a function of the converter topology, power and frequency. As a result of the study, practical models that combine the trade-off between precision and simplicity are obtained. The behaviour of the simplified models for each topology was evaluated and validated by simulation against the most complete and accurate non-ideal model found in the literature. The results have been excellent, with an error rate of less than 5% in all cases.

CO2‐Hydrogenation to Methanol over CuO/ZnO Based Infiltration Composite Catalyst Spheres

Multiple active component catalysts for efficient conversion of CO2 to Methanol (MeOH) are synthesized through coating γ‐Al2O3 carrier spheres by incipient wetness impregnation method (IWI). The well‐known bimetallic Copper Oxide/Zinc Oxide (CuO/ZnO) are promoted in three steps, first by Cerium Oxide (CeO2), then additionally with Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) and finally with Calcium Oxide (CaO) resulting in four carrier catalysts with high surface area and catalyst pore. Quaternary and quinary carrier catalysts promoted with moderate CeO2, ZrO2 in the quaternary (20% CZCZ) and additionally with CaO (20% CZCZC) in the quinary catalysts demonstrate high CO2‐conversion ratios (16.2% and 18.7%) and space time yields (0.51 and 0.47 gMeOH h‐1 gCatalyst‐1) at 5 MPa and 250 °C reactor temperature. The high conversion ratios (XCO2) and good methanol space‐time‐yields (STYMeOH) are attributed to enhanced copper dispersion and several multi metal oxide component interactions essential to enhance CO2‐activation and ‐conversion through the catalytic systems as well as very high overall surface area. Compared to related studies, the carrier catalysts show superior conversion rates, proving the effectiveness of the introduced multi‐component carrier catalyst and extending the understanding of infiltrate composites as possible large‐scale application alternatives to precipitated MeOH catalyst systems.

Dual input single Output quadratic Boost converter for DC microgrid

DC-DC converters play a critical role in various applications, including DC microgrids, electrical vehicles, data centres and aerospace power systems. This article provides a description of a non-isolated Dual Input Single Output Quadratic Boost DC-DC Converter (DISOQBC) designed for DC microgrids. PV module and battery are low dc voltage power generators. DC microgrid requires high voltage for its operation effectively. By utilizing the proposed converter, the PV module and battery are integrated with separate sources. Achieving a high efficiency and voltage conversion ratio, the proposed converter is distinguished by low components used. The operation of the converter, component design, steady state analysis, and small-signal model has been reported. The proposed converter's benefits include the converter's ability to handle more than one source, deliver more gain than the conventional converter, simple control and reduced losses. The outcome of simulating the converter validates the proposed converter's theoretical operation. The laboratory prototype is ultimately employed to validate and verify the performance of the proposed DISOQBC.

RimabotulinumtoxinB: An Update.

Botulinum type-A toxin is a well established aesthetic and medical treatment. While the usage of type-B toxin is less common, there is a growing interest in using type-B toxin, especially in those who are treatment resistant. To evaluate the primary FDA-approved clinical applications of rimabotulinumtoxinB, along with established and emerging off-label clinical indications. Articles were reviewed from PubMed database and Food and Drug Adminstration guidelines. Facial rhytids tend to use a higher conversion ratio between type A and type B toxin, due to type B toxin's weaker affinity to muscles and higher affinity for sweat glands. Specially, a 1:100 to 1:50 ratio was utilized for glabellar rhytids, a 1:25 to 1:50 ratio for periocular rhytids, a 1:50 to 1:66.6 ratio for cervical dystonia, a 1:20 to 1:50 ratio for hyperhidrosis, and a 1:25 to 30 ratio for sialorrhea. Type B toxin has demonstrated its safety and efficacy in treating facial rhytids, cervical dystonia, sialorrhea and hyperhidrosis, with potential for novel applications under investigation. Regardless of injection location and clinical applications, dry mouth and dysphagia remained the most common side effects. Across all indications, type B toxin appeared to have a faster onset of action, a dose-dependent clinical duration, and a dose-dependent adverse effect profile.

Enhanced Control of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Fed Basic Series Positive Super Voltage Lift Luo Converter Using Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Logic

An eco-friendly and renewable energy source, Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cells offer various advantages such as stability and efficiency. The present study aims to control output voltage of PEM fed basic series positive super voltage lift luo (PSVLL) converter. The model, which consists of a fuel cell and a basic series PSVLL converter, was designed in Matlab/Simulink simulation environment. The control of the PSVLL converter output voltage was performed using an interval type-2 takagi-sugeno-kang fuzzy logic (IT2TSKFL) and type-1 takagi-sugeno-kang fuzzy logic (T1TSKFL) controllers comparatively. The simulation study results demonstrated that the PEM fuel cell fed basic series PSVLL converter reached optimal current and voltage values with IT2TSKFL under nominal and different operating conditions. Moreover, IT2TSKFL improved average settling time of control system by 22.335% compared to T1TSKFL controller.

Formation and phase equilibria of gas hydrates confined in hydrophobic nanoparticles

The promotion of gas hydrate formation is of fundamental importance to facilitate its great potential applications in, for example, gas separation, transportation and energy storage. The employment of Dry Water (DW), which is a powdery Pickering system composed of macro water droplets surrounded by stabilising hydrophobic nanoparticles, is considered an effective method for enhancing hydrate formation. The promotion mechanism underlying this observation, however, has yet to be well understood. In this work, the effect of DW on both formation kinetics and thermodynamic stability of gas hydrates was investigated using a micro differential scanning calorimetry (µDSC) in CH4 and CO2 hydrate systems, using two different hydrophobic nanoparticles. Distinctly shorter induction times and higher conversion ratios were observed for DW compared to bulk water. The DW system stabilised by more hydrophobic nanoparticles showed benefits in accelerating nucleation, while the other system, which consisted of smaller DW droplets, led to a superior enhancement of hydrate growth. Besides the effect on formation kinetics, it was also noted that DW influenced the µDSC hydrate dissociation peak characteristics, including melting points and melting peak shapes. This phenomenon suggested that the centre- and surface-droplet hydrates in DW may have different structures, due to the “hydrophobic effect” of the nanoparticles structuring the near-surface water, so exhibiting melting points corresponding to bulk hydrate or to a more structured surface hydrate (with raised melting point), respectively. To support this “hydrophobic effect” hypothesis, a series of hydrate and ice formation experiments were conducted in porous media having different hydrophobicity, the results of which demonstrated that hydrates adjoining confined hydrophobized surfaces, in other systems similar to DW, also displayed higher melting temperatures.

Extended high gain DC‐DC converter with switched‐inductors, switched‐capacitors and soft‐switching: Analysis and implementation

AbstractThis paper proposes an extended DC‐DC converter with high voltage conversion ratio and soft‐switching ability. The proposed converter has active switched‐inductors, switched‐capacitors included in the conventional high gain converter and operates in continuous conduction mode (CCM). Simple auxiliary resonant elements are added on the primary leg of the converter to provide design freedom for soft‐switching operation. The significant merits of the proposed converter are lesser voltage and current stresses, high voltage gain with reduced component count and better efficiency. Additional feature of this converter is soft‐switching operation under different load conditions and duty ratios without considerably increasing stresses. The zero voltage switching (ZVS) turn‐on operation is obtained for all switching devices. Therefore, switching power losses are minimized greatly. This paper presents the description, principles of operation and steady state analysis in comparison with the existing high gain converters. The theoretical analysis is verified with a 350 W prototype operated at input is 20 V and output is 220 V. The overall efficiency achieved is 96.7%. The obtained results confirm ZVZCS operation at full load.

Effect of genotype on performance, vitamin and carotenoid deposition, oxidative stability, fatty acid profile and sensory characteristics in cockerels housed on litter and in mobile boxes on pasture

The study evaluated the effect of housing system and genotype on performance and breast meat quality in 540 cockerels. Three genotypes of cockerels differing in growth intensity (slow-growing ISA Dual, medium-growing Hubbard JA757 and fast-growing Ross 308) and two housing systems (litter and mobile box on pasture) were compared. The significantly lowest feed conversion (p < .001) was recorded for Ross 308 cockerels housed on litter, while ISA Dual cockerels from mobile boxes had a 74% higher conversion ratio. The highest concentrations of lutein (p = .043) and α-tocopherol (p = .024) in breast meat were found in the cockerels from mobile boxes of genotypes ISA Dual and Ross 308, respectively. Meat stored for five days showed the highest oxidative stability of fat (p = .001) in slow- and medium-growing cockerels housed on pasture. The ISA Dual genotype housed both on litter and on pasture and the Hubbard JA757 genotype from mobile boxes had the highest proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the meat (p < .001). The lowest n6/n3 fatty acid ratio (p = .045) and thrombogenic index (p < .001) and the highest hypocholesterolaemic/hypercholesterolaemic index (p < .001) were recorded in slow-growing chickens with access to pasture. The meat of cockerels fattened on litter was considered more fragrant (p = .013), more tender (p < .001), juicier (p < .001) and overall more acceptable (p = .001). It can be concluded that the ISA Dual genotype showed the highest willingness to graze compared to Hubbard JA757 and Ross 308 cockerels and made the best use of the benefits of pasture fattening, which was reflected in the high quality of the meat. The meat of conventionally housed cockerels was sensorially evaluated as better. Highlights The ISA Dual genotype showed the highest willingness to graze, which was reflected in the higher content of health-promoting substances in meat. The more frequent use of slow-growing cockerels for the purpose of fattening will be hindered by lower performance of the cockerels and low level of meat tenderness.

A high step‐up high step‐down coupled inductor based bidirectional DC–DC converter with low voltage stress on switches

AbstractThis paper proposes, a novel soft‐switching bidirectional direct current to direct current (DC–DC) converter based on switched‐capacitor and coupled‐inductor. The proposed converter has a simple structure and utilizes four switches and a three‐winding coupled inductor and can achieve a high voltage conversion ratio in both step‐up/step‐down operations. By employing the switched‐capacitor technique, voltage stress across the power switches is low and therefore low voltage rating switches can be adopted to reduce the losses of their conduction. Soft‐switching characteristic of the proposed converter reduces the switching loss of active power switches and raises the conversion efficiency. This paper presents theoretical analysis for all operating modes of the converter, voltage conversion ratio, voltage and current stresses of all power switches. Finally, to test the validity of theoretical results and demonstrate the performance of the converter, experimental results are provided.

Promoting denitrification via high electron conversion ratio in the iron valence Cycle: Prospects for Pseudomonas sp. JM-7 application in environmental engineering

The interdependence between iron and nitrogen in the environment is of utmost importance, and this study has explored the intricate relationship between denitrification and iron valence cycling using Pseudomonas sp. strain JM-7 (P. JM-7) as a model bacteria. Our research demonstrated that P. JM-7 had the ability to effectuate electron transfer from the periplasmic space to electron acceptors, such as nitrate, via Cytochrome c-proteins (c-Cyts). We found that iron valence state transformations with Fe(II)/Fe(III) promoted P. JM-7′s denitrification of nitrate coupled to yeast extract powder (YEP) oxidation. Denitrification rates depended on temperature (>21 °C) and pH (6–9). During logarithmic growth, 5 g/L YEP enabled 350 mg/L nitrate removal, increasing to 1650 mg/L in stable growth. Addition of 4 mM Fe(II)/Fe(III) increased denitrification to 500 mg/L during logarithmic growth. The dynamic test results displayed that compared to the SiO2 filler control group, iron-containing fillers could facilitate P. JM-7 to reduce 100 mg/L nitrate with 50 mg/L YEP electrons, corresponding to 6 times the maximum electron transfer efficiency in the static test. Overall, iron redox cycling significantly enhanced P. JM-7 denitrification, imparting insights into iron–nitrogen interactions. In summary, our research imparts valuable insights into the nexus between iron and nitrogen in the environment, highlighting the potential application of P. JM-7 in environmental engineering. Our findings indicate that P. JM-7 exhibits a significant denitrification capability, and further research is recommended to investigate its ability to remove phosphorus and promote sustainable environmental remediation practices.

Turning fishery waste into aquafeed additives: Enhancing shrimp enzymes immobilization in alginate-based particles using electrohydrodynamic atomization

Alternative protein ingredients are gradually replacing fish meal in aquafeeds. However, farmed animals often struggle to digest the provided feed, which leads to inefficient nutrient assimilation. This results in a high feed conversion ratio and in water quality deterioration. Fish waste-derived proteases show great potential as bioactive ingredients to enhance protein digestibility. To achieve this, a suitable carrier is essential to include exogenous proteases in the fish feed formulation. Therefore, this research aimed to immobilize a shrimp enzyme extract into different alginate-based microcapsules through electrodynamic atomization and compare their structural and functional properties. Morphology, physicochemical and thermal properties, and in vitro protein release were evaluated for the following microcapsules made from various materials: alginate (A), alginate-chitosan (AC), alginate-bentonite (AB), alginate-bentonite previously subjected to a sonication treatment (ABs), and a combination of all materials (ABsC or ABC). The average sizes ranged from 360 to 790 μm (wet) and 260–516 μm (freeze-dried), confirming the expected differences, with larger sizes for those including chitosan and bentonite. ABsC proved to be the most suitable system for immobilizing exogenous proteases, as these particles exhibited high encapsulation efficiency in both wet and freeze-dried versions and displayed controlled protein release under typical conditions of the proximal intestine. This was further confirmed through an in vivo trial. Two bioassays were conducted with tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) (n = 42, 2.6 ± 0.58 g) to evaluate the distribution of ABsC-rodamine labeled particles in digestive organs and digestive enzyme activity. ABsC remained in the intestine for over 7 h, and a significant increase in total proteolytic activity was observed 60 min after feeding. These findings suggest that ABsC microcapsules could serve as effective carriers for exogenous proteases in feeds for aquaculture.

A Novel Hybrid MPPT Controller for PEMFC Fed High Step-Up Single Switch DC-DC Converter

At present, there are different types of Renewable Energy Resources (RESs) available in nature which are wind, tidal, fuel cell, and solar. The wind, tidal, and solar power systems give discontinuous power supply which is not suitable for the present automotive systems. Here, the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Stack (PEMFS) is used for supplying the power to the electrical vehicle systems. The features of fuel stack networks are very quick static response, plus low atmospheric pollution. Also, this type of power supply system consists of high flexibility and more reliability. However, the fuel stack drawback is a nonlinear power supply nature. As a result, the functioning point of the fuel stack varies from one position to another position on the V-I curve of the fuel stack. Here, the first objective of the work is the development of the Grey Wolf Optimization Technique (GWOT) involving a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) for finding the Maximum Power Point (MPP) of the fuel stack. This hybrid GWOT-FLC controller stabilizes the source power under various operating temperature conditions of the fuel stack. However, the fuel stack supplies very little output voltage which is improved by introducing the Single Switch Universal Supply Voltage Boost Converter (SSUSVBC) in the second objective. The features of this proposed DC-DC converter are fewer voltage distortions of the fuel stack output voltage, high voltage conversion ratio, and low-level voltage stress on switches. The fuel stack integrated SSUSVBC is analyzed by selecting the MATLAB/Simulink window. Also, the proposed DC-DC converter is tested by utilizing the programmable DC source.

Physicochemical properties and ellagic acid accumulation in Tenebriomolitor larvae fed with pomegranate peel-enriched media

Edible insects are a promising and sustainable food source for humans due to their low environmental footprint, high feed conversion ratio, and high protein content. Furthermore, the nutritional profile of the edible insects can be modified depending on the provided diet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth performance, proximate composition, and ellagic acid accumulation in Tenebriomolitor larvae fed on corn flour media enriched with pomegranate peel. Corn flour and pomegranate peel were mixed in a 1:1 ratio (w/w) (PCM) and 50 T.molitor larvae were added to each jar. After 12 days of rearing, the weight of T.molitor larvae fed on PCM and the control increased by 88.35% and 58.6%, respectively, compared to their initial values. An increase in carbohydrate, protein and ash contents, along with a decrease in lipid content, was observed in the control diet after 12 days of feeding compared to the initial larvae. Conversely, the PCM diet exhibited an increase in ash and carbohydrate contents and a decrease in lipid and protein contents after 12 days of feeding compared to the initial larvae. Total phenolic content (TPC) of T.molitor larvae did not significantly vary when fed with the control group, while it increased on the fourth and twelfth days for larvae fed with the PCM diet. The CUPRAC antioxidant activity of larvae also increased on the fourth day of feeding on the PCM diet. Ellagic acid was not detected in larvae fed with control and initially, it accumulated in T.molitor larvae fed with PCM after 8 and 12 days of rearing, with concentrations of 92.54 and 115.6 µg/g larvae, respectively. This study highlights the importance of diet in changing the phenolic profile of T.molitor larvae, which can be used as a functional food ingredient to obtain value-added products from agricultural wastes.

Non-Isolated High Gain Interleaved DC–DC Converter with Voltage Multiplier and Switched Capacitor for Renewable Energy Systems

A novel non-isolated high-gain DC–DC converter for green energy employment is presented and analyzed. The proposed converter comprises a switched capacitor cell, passive clamp circuit, coupled inductors, and voltage multiplier unit. An interleaved boost converter (IBC) is placed on the input side of the proposed design. The voltage multiplier unit (VMU) with the secondary windings of the coupled inductors is located on the load side. It is used to accomplish interleaved power storage. The leakage energy of coupled inductor is recirculated to the load side, and the reverse recovery problem of diodes is effectively suppressed. As a result, a low-on-state resistance power switch with a low voltage rating is employed and minimizing conduction losses. The presented topology is suitable for sustainable energy applications due to its low operating duty cycle, high voltage conversion ratio, and higher efficiency. The output voltage causes substantially low voltage stress on semiconductor switches and passive elements. This proposed paper deals with simulation, parameter selection, experimental design, results and discussion. The simulation is verified using MATLAB/Simulink with a DC voltage of 30–517[Formula: see text]V. To validate the design analysis, a 1.5-kW experimental prototype is designed with a switching frequency of 10[Formula: see text]kHz and attained an efficiency of 96.07%.

The global atlas of edible insects: analysis of diversity and commonality contributing to food systems and sustainability

The future of the food system on the planet is increasingly facing uncertainties that are attributable to population growth and a surge in demand for nutritious food. Traditional agricultural practices are poised to place strain on production, as well as natural resources and ecosystem services provided, particularly under a changing climate. Given their remarkable attributes, including a low environmental footprint, high food conversion ratio, rapid growth and nutritional values, edible insects can play a vital role in the global food system. Nonetheless, substantial knowledge gaps persist regarding their diversity, global distribution, and shared characteristics across regions, potentially impeding effective scaling and access to edible insects. Therefore, we compiled and analysed the fragmented database on edible insects and identified potential drivers that elucidate insect consumption, globally, focusing on promoting a sustainable food system. We collated data from various sources, including the literature for a list of edible insect species, the Global Biodiversity Information Facility and iNaturalist for the geographical presence of edible insects, the Copernicus Land Service library for Global Land Cover, and FAOSTAT for population, income, and nutritional security parameters. Subsequently, we performed a series of analytics at the country, regional and continental levels. Our study identifies 2205 insect species, consumed across 128 countries globally. Among continents, Asia has the highest number of edible insects (932 species), followed by North America (mainly Mexico) and Africa. The countries with the highest consumption of insects are Mexico (450 species), Thailand (272 species), India (262 species), DRC (255 species), China (235 species), Brazil (140 species), Japan (123 species), and Cameroon (100 species). Our study also revealed some common and specific practices related to edible insect access and utilisation among countries and regions. Although insect consumption is often rooted in cultural practices, it exhibits correlations with land cover, the geographical presence of potentially edible insects, the size of a country’s population, and income levels. The practice of eating insects is linked to the culture of people in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, while increased consciousness and the need for food sustainability are driving most of the European countries to evaluate eating insects. Therefore, edible insects are becoming an increasingly significant part of the future of planetary food systems. Therefore, more proactive efforts are required to promote them for their effective contribution to achieving sustainable food production.