In the face of growing pressures on our food systems, such as overpopulation, climate change, and geopolitical conflicts, the future of food is facing an overhaul. One potential solution that has gained increasing attention is the consumption of edible insects.
Edible insects have been a staple in many cultures around the world for centuries, but their popularity in the UK has been hindered by their classification as “novel foods” by the European Commission in 2018. This classification imposed strict regulations on the production and sale of insect-based products, making it challenging for businesses to enter the market.
However, recent regulatory changes have opened up the market for edible insects in the UK. In 2023, Parliament agreed to allow seven different insect species, including crickets, mealworms, locusts, and the black soldier fly, to be legally traded. This has given a boost to the edible insect industry, and demand for insect-based products is on the rise.
One of the pioneers in the UK edible insect market is Yum Bug, a food brand that has developed a range of cricket meat products, from mince to burger patties. Their products have gained recognition from top chefs and have even been featured on Dragons’ Den. In February 2023, Yum Bug opened its flagship restaurant in North London, offering customers the opportunity to experience the culinary delights of edible insects firsthand.
The restaurant serves a variety of dishes featuring cricket meat, including tacos, onion bhajis, pasta, and meatballs. The dishes are not only delicious but also surprisingly affordable, with most items on the menu ranging from £12 to £15. The restaurant has been well-received by customers, with many praising the taste and texture of the cricket meat.
In addition to Yum Bug, there are several other brands in the UK offering edible insect products. Crunchy Critters sells a variety of dried whole insects as well as snack mixes made with mealworms. Bugvita specializes in cricket powder products, including baking mixes and protein supplements. Gymsect is a leading provider of cricket protein powders, which are a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional whey protein.
Edible insects offer numerous environmental and health benefits. They are a highly efficient source of protein, requiring less land, feed, water, and energy to produce than traditional livestock. They also produce significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, insects are a rich source of essential nutrients, including protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12.
While some consumers may still be hesitant to try edible insects, the growing number of brands and products available is making them more accessible and appealing. With their nutritional value and sustainability credentials, edible insects are a promising solution for the future of food, offering a way to meet the growing demand for protein while reducing our environmental impact.
