Edible Insects Market

Edible Insects Market Size:

The global edible insects market size reached USD 1.9 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 7.2 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 15.51% during 2025-2033. The emergence of insect-based protein powders and supplements, the increasing investments in insect farming startups and ventures, the rising acceptance of insects as ingredients in processed foods, and the growing product adoption as pet food ingredients are some of the factors propelling the market.

Edible Insects Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The global edible insects market is primarily driven by the growing awareness of sustainability, as insect farming has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock farming. The rising demand for protein-rich alternatives in food and feed, coupled with increasing concerns over food security and population growth, further boosts edible insects market value.
• Key Market Trends: Key market trends include the expansion of insect-based food products, particularly in snacks, protein bars, and supplements. As consumer acceptance grows, innovations in insect farming technology and the use of insects in processed food products are becoming more prevalent.
• Geographical Trends: The market is seeing high demand in Asia-Pacific, where insect eating has long been part of the traditional cuisine. However, places such as North America and Europe are emerging as new growth markets, owing to rising health-consciousness among consumers and governmental backing for innovative food items.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the major market players in the edible insects industry include All Things Bugs LLC, Bugsolutely Ltd., Chapul LLC, DeliBugs, Eat Grub Ltd., Entomo Farms, EnviroFlight LLC, EXO Protein (Aspire Food Group), Fluker's Cricket Farm Inc., Jr Unique Foods Ltd., Nutribug Ltd., Thailand Unique., among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Overcoming cultural barriers, particularly in Western nations, and providing uniform regulatory frameworks are key hurdles for the industry. On the other hand, solving global food security challenges, decreasing environmental consequences, and establishing long-term supply chains for human consumption and animal feed are presenting lucrative opportunities for market expansion.

Edible Insects Market Trends:

Increasing integration of insects in animal feed for livestock and poultry

The growing use of insects in animal feed for cattle and poultry is encouraging the market. As traditional protein sources confront ecological issues and increased demand for meat products depletes resources, insects provide a feasible alternative. Insects provide a nutrient-dense alternative protein source that is easily transformed into animal feed. Their great feed conversion efficiency and reduced environmental effect make them appealing. Incorporating insects into cattle and poultry feed not only increases nutritional content but also promotes animal development and health. Furthermore, less reliance on conventional protein sources like soy and fish meal reduces pressure on ecosystems and alleviates worries about overfishing. This shift towards insect-based animal feed aligns with the growing global focus on sustainable agriculture and responsible resource management, further fueling the market.

Rising awareness campaigns promoting the nutritional benefits of insects

The increase in awareness campaigns emphasizing the nutritional advantages of insects has boosted the industry's growth. The campaigns are critical in changing consumer preconceptions and sharing attention on the outstanding nutritional value of edible insects, such as their high protein, vitamin, and mineral content. These efforts reduce obstacles to insect-eating by debunking myths and increasing knowledge. As more people learn about the health benefits of including insects in their meals, their eating habits are changing. This increasing awareness raises demand for insect-based goods in the food and beverage industry and fosters the development of novel insect-derived ingredients and snacks. As a result, as knowledgeable customers look for these nutrient-rich, sustainable protein sources, the market for edible insects is growing.

Development of insect-based food safety regulations

The development of insect-based food safety laws has several potentials for the market. As public interest in edible insects grows, the safety and quality of insect-based goods becomes critical. Establishing clear and thorough food safety laws empowers customers to adopt insect-derived meals. These laws address issues about insect production, processing, and ingestion, ensuring that they fulfill strict safety requirements. The creation of such laws ensures customers of the sanitary and nutritious elements of insect-based goods while also facilitating their inclusion into conventional food supply chains. This, in turn, motivates food makers to invest in insect-based technologies while maintaining safety. Robust rules boost business legitimacy, attracting more customers and spurring the creation of new insect-based food items. The establishment of insect-based food safety regulations bolsters consumer trust and fuels the market by providing a solid foundation for sustainable and safe insect consumption.

Edible Insects Market Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, product, and application.

Breakup by Type:

• Beetles
• Cricket
• Caterpillars
• Grasshoppers
• Bees
• Ants
• Others
   

Beetles account for the majority of the market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes beetles, cricket, caterpillars, grasshoppers, bees, ants, and others. According to the report, beetles represented the largest segment.

The market is experiencing significant growth propelled by the increasing interest in sustainable food sources and innovative dietary choices. Beetles and crickets, in particular, have emerged as key drivers of this trend. Beetles, with their high protein content and rich nutrient profile, are gaining traction as a viable protein source. They are being used in various forms, such as ground into powders for protein bars and baked goods, contributing to the diversification of the protein market. The low environmental impact of beetle farming compared to traditional livestock further bolsters their popularity, aligning with the global push toward more eco-friendly food solutions.

Breakup by Product:

• Whole Insects
• Insect Powder
• Insect Meal
• Insect Oil
   

Insect powder holds the largest share of the industry

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product have also been provided in the report. This includes whole insects, insect powder, insect meal, and insect oil. According to the report, insect powder accounted for the largest market share.

The market is undergoing a transformative growth phase, largely propelled by the increasing consumption of whole insects and insect powder. Insect powder, obtained by processing insects into a finely ground form, is another pivotal factor driving edible insects market growth. This versatile powder is being incorporated into diverse food products, including energy bars, protein shakes, and baked goods. It addresses consumer preferences for sustainable and protein-rich foods and is easily incorporated into existing food processes. Additionally, its long shelf life and neutral flavor make it an ideal ingredient for fortifying everyday meals without altering taste, further increasing its appeal among health-conscious and environmentally-aware consumers.

Breakup by Application:

• Food and Beverage
• Bakery
• Pet Food
• Others
   

Food and beverage represents the leading market segment 

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the application. This includes food and beverage, bakery, pet food, and others. According to the report, food and beverage represented the largest segment.

The edible insects market is experiencing substantial growth, with the food and beverage and bakery sectors playing pivotal roles in this expansion. The food and beverage industry is integrating edible insects into various products, ranging from protein bars and snacks to savory dishes and beverages like protein shakes and smoothies. This integration is not only diversifying protein sources but also catering to health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable alternatives. The high nutritional value of insects, including their rich protein, vitamin, and mineral content, combined with their environmental efficiency, aligns perfectly with the industry's emphasis on health and sustainability, driving further innovation and acceptance.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America leads the market, accounting for the largest edible insects market share

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America represents the largest regional market for edible insects.

In North America, changing consumer preferences and increasing awareness of sustainable food sources have fostered a growing acceptance of edible insects. As health-conscious individuals seek alternative protein options, incorporating insects into various food products, such as snacks, energy bars, and even beverages, has gained traction. This trend is further supported by rising interest in sustainability and innovative dietary choices. The market expansion is also fueled by collaborations between food manufacturers and insect farming companies, aiming to develop new products and improve the supply chain, making insect-based foods more accessible and appealing to a broader audience. Additionally, the supportive regulatory environment and rising media coverage of the benefits of insect-based foods are also bolstering edible insects market demand.

Competitive Landscape:

• The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the major market players in the edible insects industry include All Things Bugs LLC, Bugsolutely Ltd., Chapul LLC, DeliBugs, Eat Grub Ltd., Entomo Farms, EnviroFlight LLC, EXO Protein (Aspire Food Group), Fluker's Cricket Farm Inc., Jr Unique Foods Ltd., Nutribug Ltd., Thailand Unique., etc.
  
  (Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)
   
• Top companies are pivotal in driving market growth through their innovative approaches and strategic initiatives. These companies are investing in research and development to create novel insect-based products that cater to evolving consumer preferences for sustainable protein sources. They are actively collaborating with food manufacturers to integrate insects into diverse food products, expanding their market reach. Additionally, these companies are focusing on transparent and ethical sourcing, ensuring the quality and safety of their insect-derived ingredients. They set industry standards and inspire consumer confidence by prioritizing sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. Their efforts to educate the public about edible insects' nutritional benefits and ecological advantages are also key drivers, gradually shifting perceptions and encouraging wider adoption. Moreover, their participation in industry events, partnerships, and awareness campaigns is helping to normalize insect consumption and establish it as a viable and exciting food choice.

Edible Insects Market News:

• In July 2024, Singapore's state food agency approved 16 edible insects for sale and consumption in the country. The insects include locusts, grasshoppers, mealworms, and several species of beetle. These insects and insect products can be used for human consumption or as animal feed for food-producing animals.
• In January 2024, Entocycle and EnviroFlight partnered to develop and trial Entosight Neo, Entocycle's black soldier fly breeding technology solution for neonate counting and dosing. The collaboration aims to optimize production efficiencies in the insect-based ingredients industry.
• In August 2023, Bühler and Entocycle partnered to provide end-to-end technology solutions for large-scale black soldier fly (BSF) farms. Entocycle will deliver proprietary breeding technology, while Bühler will offer proven industrial-scale technologies in feedstock processing, larvae rearing, and product processing.

Edible Insects Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the edible insects market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global edible insects market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the edible insects industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.