Insect Snacks Market

The rising importance of farming is driving the market growth

Market CAGR for the insect snacks market is driven because consumers eat more edible insects. Additionally, the food and feed industries are becoming more interested in edible insects because they contain essential minerals and amino acids. In the upcoming years, an increase in demand for edible insects from various food industries is anticipated to fuel market expansion. Although most countries regularly consume edible insects, there are a few where this practice is less common. Due to their high essential minerals and amino acid content, edible insects are used as human and animal food.

Wasps, scale insects, ants, crickets, flies, bees, termites, cockroaches, beetles, and grasshoppers are just a few of the many edible insects that can be used as food for poultry. Market demand for edible insects is anticipated to increase in the coming years due to consumers' rising propensity to consume protein-rich foods and the widespread alteration of eating habits. In agricultural farming, edible insects provide vital nutrients to the crops. Another factor that propels the market's expansion during the forecast period is the rising importance of farming and government initiatives for edible insects.

Compared to snacks made from animal products, insect snacks frequently have higher protein contents and a smaller environmental impact, which appeals to consumers concerned about their health.

Many cultures worldwide have long consumed insects, and interest in their culinary practices is growing. As tastes and food preferences expand, people are opening up to trying new and exotic foods, including snacks made of insects. The novelty element and the exploration of various culinary experiences support market expansion. To spread awareness and promote their products, several businesses in the insect snack sector have concentrated on efficient marketing and branding strategies.

They have tried to get people to eat insects despite their initial reluctance or "yuck factor" by emphasizing their nutritional benefits, sustainability benefits, and use of creative flavors and packaging. Thus, driving the insect snacks market revenue.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry is on a trajectory of robust growth, with projections indicating a market size of 641.0 USD Billion by 2035. This anticipated growth is underpinned by a compound annual growth rate of 13.12% from 2025 to 2035. The increasing acceptance of insect-based foods, driven by sustainability and health trends, suggests a favorable environment for market expansion. As more consumers integrate insect snacks into their diets, the industry is likely to experience significant transformation, reflecting broader shifts in food consumption patterns.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry is characterized by continuous innovation in product development. Companies are increasingly experimenting with flavors, textures, and formats to appeal to a broader audience. For example, the introduction of insect protein bars and flavored cricket chips has attracted both health enthusiasts and adventurous eaters. This innovation is crucial as it helps to overcome the initial consumer hesitance towards insect consumption. As the market evolves, the introduction of new products is expected to drive growth, potentially contributing to a compound annual growth rate of 13.12% from 2025 to 2035, reflecting the dynamic nature of consumer preferences.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry benefits from the growing recognition of the health advantages associated with insect consumption. Insects are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious alternative to conventional snacks. For instance, crickets contain up to 70 percent protein by weight and are high in omega-3 fatty acids. As health-conscious consumers seek nutritious snack options, the demand for insect-based products is likely to increase. This trend is further supported by dietary guidelines promoting protein diversity, suggesting a promising trajectory for the market as it aligns with evolving consumer preferences.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry is likely to benefit from increasing regulatory support and standardization in food safety. Governments worldwide are beginning to recognize the potential of insects as a food source, leading to the establishment of guidelines and regulations for their production and consumption. For instance, the European Food Safety Authority has approved several insect species for human consumption, paving the way for market expansion. This regulatory framework not only enhances consumer confidence but also encourages investment in the sector, suggesting a more structured growth path for the industry in the coming years.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry is witnessing a surge in demand for alternative protein sources, driven by increasing awareness of environmental sustainability. Insects are recognized for their high feed conversion efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional livestock. This shift towards sustainable food sources aligns with global initiatives to reduce carbon footprints. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, the market for insect-based snacks is projected to expand significantly, with estimates suggesting a market size of 165.2 USD Billion in 2024. This trend indicates a potential for substantial growth as more consumers opt for eco-friendly dietary choices.

The Global Insect Snacks Market Industry is influenced by the rising global population and the corresponding food security challenges. With the world population projected to reach approximately 9.7 billion by 2050, the demand for sustainable food sources is becoming increasingly urgent. Insects offer a viable solution to meet this demand due to their high efficiency in converting feed into protein. As food security becomes a pressing global issue, the market for insect snacks is expected to grow, potentially reaching 641.0 USD Billion by 2035. This growth reflects the industry's role in addressing future food supply challenges.

By region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Rest of the World. The North American insect snacks market will dominate this market due to the rising demand among many people for eco-friendly, high-protein diets. Edible insect sales have performed well domestically in nations like the US, the U.S. and the U.K.

Further, the major countries studied in the market report are The US, Canada, German, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Figure 2: INSECT SNACKS MARKET SHARE BY REGION 2022 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

Europe’s insect snacks market accounts for the second-largest market share due to the rise in the consumption of protein-rich foods and the diversification of protein sources in European nations. Due to campaigns to raise awareness and the development of European regulations, the edible insect and insect-based food sector has recently seen increased production and trade. More than two billion people consume insects in their diets worldwide, according to the FAO. Presently, western societies are a niche market for edible insects.

However, due to our rapidly changing dietary habits and consumers' growing willingness to try insect-based food, insect farming is a growing industry in Europe. Further, the German insect snacks market held the largest market share, and the UK insect snacks market was the fastest-growing market in the European region.

The Asia-Pacific Insect Snacks Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR from 2023 to 2032 due to the expansion of insect farming, low transportation and raw material costs, and growing insect farming. The market for edible insects is expected to grow over the forecast period due to several factors, including the rising demand for natural ingredients in various convenience food products. Moreover, China’s insect snacks market held the largest market share, and the Indian insect snacks market was the fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

Leading market players are investing heavily in research and development in order to expand their product lines, which will help the insect snacks market grow even more. Market participants are also undertaking a variety of strategic activities to expand their footprint, with important market developments including new product launches, contractual agreements, mergers and acquisitions, higher investments, and collaboration with other organizations. To expand and survive in a more competitive and rising market climate, the insect snacks industry must offer cost-effective items.

Manufacturing locally to minimize operational costs is one of the key business tactics manufacturers use in the insect snacks industry to benefit clients and increase the market sector. The insect snacks industry has offered some of the most significant advantages in recent years. Major players in the insect snacks market, including Eat Grub (UK), Jimini’s (France), Thailand Unique (Thailand), Entomo Farms (Canada), Chapul Cricket Protein (US), Edible Inc. (Korea), Cricket Flours (US), EXO (US), Six Foods (US), and others, are attempting to increase market demand by investing in research and development operations.

Eat Grub (UK), Aspire Food Group, a Canadian business renowned for its cutting-edge insect agriculture and food technology, and Lotte Confectionery, a major South Korean snack and ice cream producer, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate in the fields of protein alternatives and edible insects.

With a USD 250 million investment backed by ADM and Cargill, the French company InnovaFeed has expanded the market for edible insects by doubling the size of the production facility for black farm soldier flies in Decatur, Illinois. 18 edible insect businesses have accepted services worth EUR 460,000 (USD 496,600) from the ValuSect group of European insect producers. As the selected businesses develop innovative ideas, knowledgeable partners will offer guidance. This will boost insect production and consumer acceptance in North-West Europe.

Six Foods (US), The tortilla chips (Chirps) that are well-known to Americans are made from crickets that have been ground into flour. Insect foods, from snacks to meat, should become more commonplace. The intention is to replace animal protein with insect protein and switch from raising livestock to raising insects. The use of land, water, and greenhouse gases will all be decreased as a result. Join forces with scholar and youth conferences both domestically and abroad. In our multi-stage Social Venture Challenge, enlist undergraduate students to submit proposals for social ventures.

Award Resolution Fellowships to inspiring young leaders with the most promising social venture ideas. Support our Fellows by providing seed money, practical guidance, free resources, and a network of peers who share their interests. Give them access to opportunities through your partner organizations to expand their businesses, careers, and impact.