The insect farming market is gaining traction as a sustainable and innovative solution for the world’s growing protein needs. With traditional sources of protein becoming unsustainable, insect farming offers a promising and accessible alternative to address global food security and sustainability challenges for both humans and livestock.
According to a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report, livestock farming is responsible for approximately 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. It is also a leading cause of deforestation, soil degradation, and water pollution. Insects, however, are easy to rear, require minimal space and resources, and have a low environmental impact, making them a viable solution for sustainable food production.
According to Grand View Research, the global insect protein market size was valued at USD 249.9 million in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.4% from 2021 to 2028. Key players in the insect farming market include Protifarm, Ynsect, Aspire Food Group, Beta Hatch, and Entomo Farms.
While the insect farming market is growing, it also faces some limitations, including regulatory and cultural barriers, consumer perception, and the need for further research and development. For example, insects are not yet classified as food sources in some regions. Some consumers may hesitate to try insect-based products due to cultural taboos or a lack of familiarity.
The insect farming industry must find ways to educate consumers on the benefits of insect-based protein and address their concerns about safety, taste, and quality. Additionally, more research is needed to optimize the efficiency and productivity of insect farming and explore new markets and applications for insect-based products.
One promising area of growth for the insect farming market is in the livestock and pet food segments. Insects offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional protein sources for animal feed. The global Insect Feed Market Size was valued at $261.5 million in 2021 and is projected to reach $2.2 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 24.5% from 2022 to 2031, according to Allied Market Research.
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Photo by Robert Gunnarsson on Unsplash
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