Edible Insects Market Size was estimated at 0.99 (USD Billion) in 2023. The Edible Insects Industry is expected to grow from 1.13 (USD Billion) in 2024 to 4.5 (USD Billion) by 2035. The Edible Insects Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 13.42% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Source Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The Edible Insects Market is witnessing significant trends as consumer awareness of sustainable food sources continues to rise. As the population grows, the demand for protein is increasing, prompting a shift towards alternative protein sources. Edible insects are gaining attention for their high nutritional value and lower environmental impact compared to traditional livestock. This trend is further supported by government initiatives and outreach programs promoting entomophagy as a viable solution for food security. Countries in Asia, such as Thailand and Vietnam, have long histories of incorporating insects into their diets, while Western nations are gradually embracing these food products as they explore sustainable food options.
There are many opportunities available in this market, especially in food product development that utilizes edible insects. Modern food technology allows businesses to manufacture snacks, protein bars, and even insect flour for health-conscious consumers. In addition, farming edible insects could strengthen the supply chain, lower production costs, and provide ample insect farming opportunities. Recent social media and culinary show exposure also seem to be increasing developed market consumer acceptance of edible insects.
Food startups and established companies are experimenting with insect-based ingredients, pushing boundaries on how these products are marketed. As regulatory frameworks evolve globally to accommodate this market, there is a clear trajectory toward building a mainstream presence for edible insects, addressing both ecological and health-driven consumer demands. This convergence of environmental needs and consumer preferences is redefining the landscape of protein sources available worldwide.
The Edible Insects Market Industry is witnessing an increasing demand for sustainable protein sources as the population continues to grow. According to a report from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the world population is expected to reach approximately 9.7 billion by 2050, and with it, the protein demand is projected to increase by 70%. This shift is significant, as conventional livestock farming is associated with high greenhouse gas emissions and utilizes vast land and water resources.
In contrast, edible insects have a lower environmental impact; they require less feed, land, and water as compared to traditional livestock. For instance, insects produce 80 times less greenhouse gas and can convert feed into protein much more efficiently. Organizations like the FAO and World Health Organization (WHO) advocate for the adoption of edible insects in diets to address food security and sustainability challenges globally, further propelling the growth of the Edible Insects Market.
The Edible Insects Market Industry is driven by the recognition of the health benefits and superior nutritional value of edible insects. Studies have shown that insects are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a potent alternative to conventional meat sources. For example, crickets can contain up to 70% of protein by dry weight and are also high in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins. The potential health benefits are supported by the WHO, emphasizing the nutritional advantages of insects as a source of food.
This shift towards healthier dietary options is evident as consumers increasingly seek out nutritious and less processed food sources, thus invigorating the Edible Insects Market.
Innovations in food technology and product development are significantly fueling the growth of the Edible Insects Market Industry. Advances in processing techniques and food safety measures have made it possible to incorporate edible insects into various food products without compromising safety or taste. Companies are developing innovative products, such as protein bars, snacks, and flours sourced from insects, which are more appealing to consumers.
In Europe, legislation from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) paves the way for the approval of insects as novel food ingredients, thus expanding the market. As consumers become more adventurous in their food choices, the application of edible insects in mainstream foods will further enhance their acceptance and consumption globally.
The Edible Insects Market represents a burgeoning sector with significant potential in various applications, poised for substantial growth. In 2024, the market was valued at 1.13 USD Billion and is expected to increase to 4.5 USD Billion by 2035. The Application segment is critical, encompassing essential areas such as Animal Feed, Food Products, Nutraceuticals, and Cosmetics. The Animal Feed market held a major share which was valued at 0.45 USD Billion in 2024 and projected to grow to 1.79 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting the rising demand for sustainable protein sources in livestock nutrition.
This segment is vital as it addresses the need for alternative feed ingredients driven by sustainability concerns and the need to reduce traditional feed costs. The Food Products segment also demonstrated robust growth, with a valuation of 0.55 USD Billion in 2024, and is expected to expand to 2.25 USD Billion by 2035. The incorporation of edible insects in human food products is gaining traction due to their high nutritional value, including protein, vitamins, and minerals, thus catering to health-conscious consumers. Nutraceuticals, although smaller, had a value of 0.08 USD Billion in 2024 and anticipated growth to 0.32 USD Billion by 2035, underscoring the increasing use of edible insects for their health benefits and functional properties in dietary supplements.
Lastly, the Cosmetics segment, while the smallest, was valued at 0.05 USD Billion in 2024 and is expected to rise to 0.14 USD Billion by 2035, highlighting the trend of integrating natural ingredients into personal care products, reflecting a broader shift towards sustainability and clean beauty. The overall growth drivers for the Edible Insects Market include changing consumer preferences, environmental sustainability, and the need for innovative solutions to food security challenges. Moreover, the diversification into various applications underscores the limitless opportunities that the edible insects sector presents in addressing modern dietary needs and sustainability goals in the market.
Source Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
The Edible Insects Market has shown significant growth, with the market reaching a valuation of 1.13 billion USD in 2024 and expected to grow further. The segmentation based on Insect Type showcases various categories, such as Crickets, Mealworms, Grasshoppers, and Ants. Crickets are recognized for their high protein content and sustainability, making them a popular choice in the market. Mealworms are also gaining traction due to their nutritional benefits and ease of farming, appealing to both consumers and producers alike. Grasshoppers, rich in vital nutrients, are consumed in various cultures worldwide, facilitating their acceptance in diverse culinary practices.
Ants are emerging as a niche market due to their unique flavor profiles and health benefits, yet they hold a significant position in traditional diets across several regions. As the demand for alternative protein sources rises, these insect types are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing food security and sustainability in the Edible Insects Market. The overarching trends pivot around health consciousness, environmental sustainability, and innovation in food products, all contributing to robust market growth and the increasing consumer acceptance of edible insects as a viable food source.
The Edible Insects Market, particularly focused on the Form segment, has gained significant traction in recent years, with a market value of 1.13 billion USD in 2024. This segment encompasses various forms of edible insects, including Whole Insects, Powdered Insects, Insect-Based Snacks, and Protein Bars. Whole Insects are often perceived as a nutritious whole-food alternative, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Powdered Insects, on the other hand, serve as an excellent protein supplement and can be seamlessly integrated into various food products, enhancing nutritional value without compromising flavor.
Insect-Based Snacks have emerged as a convenient and trendy option, catering to a growing demand for healthy snacking. Protein Bars featuring edible insects offer a high-protein alternative that is increasingly popular among athletes and active individuals. The Edible Insects Market data reflects a transformative growth trajectory driven by rising awareness of sustainable protein sources and innovative food technology. As more communities and governments emphasize food security and environmental sustainability, the Edible Insects Market statistics indicate strong potential for continued expansion, with these forms of edible insects playing a critical role in meeting future dietary needs.
The Edible Insects Market revenue indicates a significant and growing arena of consumption driven by various distribution channels. In 2024, the market was valued at 1.13 billion USD, highlighting the potential for expansion through different sales channels. With the rise of e-commerce, the online segment is becoming increasingly popular as consumers seek convenient access to edible insect products, supported by growing awareness of their nutritional benefits. Retail stores and specialty shops also play a crucial role in making these products accessible to health-conscious consumers.
Additionally, the food service sector, encompassing restaurants and catering, presents a vital avenue for promoting edible insects as a sustainable protein source. This segment's growth is driven by innovative culinary applications and the increasing trend of incorporating alternative proteins into menus. The Edible Insects Market segmentation underscores the importance of these channels, showing that collaboration across distribution methods can significantly cater to diverse consumer bases and enhance market penetration. As the industry evolves, opportunities will continue to arise, forging a path for greater acceptance and consumption of edible insects globally.
The Regional segmentation of the Edible Insects Market reveals significant growth potential across various geographic areas. In 2024, North America held a market value of 0.25 USD Billion, increasing to 0.833 USD Billion by 2035, showcasing a strong demand for alternative protein sources. Europe had a value from 0.2 USD Billion in 2024 to 0.75 USD Billion in 2035, reflecting a growing interest in sustainable food production. The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region demonstrated the most substantial growth, starting at 0.3 USD Billion in 2024 and expected to reach 1.25 USD Billion in 2035, driven by changing dietary habits and an expanding population.
South America, with a market value of 0.15 USD Billion in 2024 and an anticipated rise to 0.417 USD Billion by 2035, also reveals a gradual acceptance of edible insects as a food source. Meanwhile, the Middle East and Africa (MEA) showed an interesting trajectory, moving from 0.23 USD Billion in 2024 to 1.25 USD Billion by 2035, indicating the region's growing awareness of the nutritional benefits of insects. This diverse regional growth highlights various market dynamics influenced by cultural acceptance, dietary needs, and economic factors across different areas, establishing the Edible Insects Market as a significant player in the future food landscape.
Source Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Edible Insects Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The Edible Insects Market is rapidly evolving, driven by increasing awareness of alternative protein sources, sustainability concerns, and a growing population. The industry is characterized by a variety of players ranging from small startups to established companies, each seeking to carve out a competitive edge through innovation, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships. Market dynamics are influenced by consumer demand for healthy, sustainable, and environmentally friendly food options, prompting companies to continuously develop new products that cater to diverse palates and dietary needs. Additionally, regulatory frameworks play a critical role in shaping the market landscape, impacting how companies navigate production standards, labeling, and distribution.
Cricket Flours has established itself as a leading player in the Edible Insects Market, primarily focusing on cricket-based products designed for a variety of applications, including protein powders and snacks. The company's strengths lie in its commitment to high-quality sourcing and production processes, allowing it to provide consumers with nutritious and sustainable options. With a solid market presence, Cricket Flours leverages its expertise in food science to create innovative products that appeal to health-conscious consumers and those looking for eco-friendly alternatives. Their ongoing efforts in consumer education and marketing have strengthened their brand recognition, further enhancing their competitive position in the market.
Ynsect stands out as a prominent entity within the Edible Insects Market, specializing in the farming and processing of mealworms for human consumption and animal feed. Key products focus on high-protein ingredients and sustainable feed solutions that tap into the growing demand for alternative protein sources. Ynsect has built a robust market presence through strategic collaborations and partnerships, allowing for expanded distribution channels and enhanced product offerings. The company's strengths are further augmented by its commitment to research and development, leading to continuous innovation in its product lineup. Moreover, Ynsect has been active in mergers and acquisitions, which have enabled expansion into new markets and an escalation in production capabilities, solidifying its position as a key player in the edible insects space.
Key Companies in the Edible Insects Market Include
Cricket Flours
Ynsect
Tiny Farms
The Bug Farm
iEAT
Eat Grub
Mopane Worm
Six Foods
Little Herds
Green Protein
Protix
Aspire Food Group
Exo
Bugsolutely
Edible Insects Market Industry Developments
In recent months, the Edible Insects Market has seen notable developments, particularly with companies such as Cricket Flours and Ynsect making strides in sustainability and innovation. Tiny Farms has been highlighted for advancing urban farming techniques to produce insects in city environments, addressing concerns about food security. Additionally, The Bug Farm is actively promoting the nutritional benefits of insects, leading to increased consumer awareness. In July 2023, Aspire Food Group announced an acquisition of a smaller insect farming startup, increasing their production capacity, while Exo has expanded its product line to include more protein bars featuring cricket flour. The market valuation for companies like Nutracelle and Eat Grub has been positively impacted, reflecting a growing consumer interest in alternative protein sources, particularly among younger demographics. Over the past two to three years, significant growth has been registered in the sector, with the market expected to expand as regulations loosen across various regions. Major industry players like Protix are also exploring international expansion, indicating a movement toward acceptance of edible insects as part of sustainable food systems. As a result, the Edible Insects Market is poised for continued growth and innovation.
Edible Insects Market Segmentation Insights
Edible Insects Market Application Outlook
Animal Feed
Food Products
Nutraceuticals
Cosmetics
Edible Insects Market Insect Type Outlook
Crickets
Mealworms
Grasshoppers
Ants
Edible Insects Market Form Outlook
Whole Insects
Powdered Insects
Insect-Based Snacks
Protein Bars
Edible Insects Market Distribution Channel Outlook
Online
Retail
Food Services
Edible Insects Market Regional Outlook
North America
Europe
South America
Asia Pacific
Middle East and Africa
| Report Attribute/Metric | Details |
| Market Size 2023 | 0.99 (USD Billion) |
| Market Size 2024 | 1.13 (USD Billion) |
| Market Size 2035 | 4.5 (USD Billion) |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) | 13.42% (2025 - 2035) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Market Forecast Period | 2025 - 2035 |
| Historical Data | 2019 - 2024 |
| Market Forecast Units | USD Billion |
| Key Companies Profiled | Cricket Flours, Ynsect, Tiny Farms, The Bug Farm, iEAT, Nutracelle, Eat Grub, Mopane Worm, Six Foods, Little Herds, Green Protein, Protix, Aspire Food Group, Exo, Bugsolutely |
| Segments Covered | Application, Insect Type, Form, Distribution Channel, Regional |
| Key Market Opportunities | Sustainable protein source expansion, Rising demand for alternative proteins, Innovative insect-based snack products, Regulatory support for edible insects, Growing awareness of health benefits |
| Key Market Dynamics | Sustainability concerns, rising protein demand, innovative food products, regulatory challenges, consumer acceptance |
| Countries Covered | North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA |
Edible Insects Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Global Edible Insects Market is expected to be valued at 1.13 USD Billion in 2024.
By 2035, the Global Edible Insects Market is projected to reach a value of 4.5 USD Billion.
The expected CAGR for the Global Edible Insects Market from 2025 to 2035 is 13.42%.
The Food Products segment is projected to have the largest market value at 2.25 USD Billion in 2035.
The Animal Feed application is estimated to be valued at 0.45 USD Billion in 2024.
The APAC region is expected to show significant growth, reaching 1.25 USD Billion by 2035.
The Nutraceuticals application is projected to reach a market size of 0.32 USD Billion by 2035.
Major players include Cricket Flours, Ynsect, Tiny Farms, and Aspire Food Group among others.
The Cosmetics application is expected to be valued at 0.14 USD Billion in 2035.
The North America region is projected to have a market value of 0.25 USD Billion in 2024.
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Research Analyst Level II I have a degree in engineering (civil), with masters in business administration (marketing). with more than 4 years of experience in market research and consulting, i am involved in end-to-end process of market research, proposals, project kickoffs and delivery. i have research knowledge and expertise in consumer goods/packaging domain. also i have worked for various other domains like construction & equipment. effectively managed and delivered more than 60 report studies for regional as well as global clientele.
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