Insects are not only a source of protein, but also a potential solution to global challenges of malnutrition, food security, and environmental sustainability. This article summarizes a paper by researchers from Colorado State University and the University of Wisconsin, who reviewed the nutritional benefits and policy implications of insect consumption for human health and planetary health.
Introduction: The Global Potential of Entomophagy
Entomophagy, or eating insects, is a common practice in many cultures around the world, where insects are harvested from the wild or farmed with minimal resources. However, in the U.S. and other Western countries, insects are often considered as pests or taboo foods. The authors argue that increasing insect consumption by humans may have positive effects on both gut health and planetary health, as insects provide valuable nutrients, such as protein, healthy fats, and chitin (a type of fiber), and have lower environmental impacts than conventional livestock.
Main Body: The Nutritional Benefits and Policy Challenges of Insect Consumption
The authors summarize the current knowledge on the nutritional benefits and policy challenges of insect consumption, based on their previous and ongoing research. They highlight the following points:
Insects are a reliable source of bioavailable animal protein that contain all essential amino acids needed for human nutrition, especially for those who follow cereal- or legume-based diets.
Insects also contain healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, that may have anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects.
Insects are rich in chitin, a type of fiber that is not found in other animal foods, and that may contribute to healthy gut microbiota and reduce intestinal inflammation.
Insects have lower environmental impacts than conventional livestock, as they require less water, land, feed, and emit fewer greenhouse gases. Some insects can also recycle organic waste into high-quality food or animal feed.
Insect consumption faces several policy challenges, such as lack of clear definitions, regulations, standards, and labeling for edible insects; potential risks of allergens and contaminants; cultural barriers and consumer preferences; and limited research on human intervention studies.
Conclusion: The Need for More Research and Education on Insect Consumption
The authors conclude that insect consumption has the potential to positively influence global challenges of malnutrition, food security, and environmental sustainability. They call for more research on the effects of insect consumption on human health and gut microbiota, as well as more education and awareness campaigns to promote insect consumption as a viable option for healthy and sustainable diets. They also suggest that using excise taxes on junk food to subsidize insect production and consumption may be an effective policy strategy to improve public health outcomes.
Comments