According to an in-depth study by Straits Research, the global Edible Insects Market is poised for exponential growth, projected to reach a value of USD 5.91 billion by 2033. This remarkable surge represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.9% from 2025 to 2033, indicating strong momentum in the sector. Valued at USD 1.71 billion in 2024, the market is anticipated to surpass USD 1.95 billion by 2025, underlining the increasing adoption of insect-based foods and feed products globally.

What is the Edible Insects Market?

The edible insects market involves the production, processing, and distribution of insect-based products intended for human consumption and animal feed. Common insects used in the market include crickets, mealworms, grasshoppers, and the Black Soldier Fly (BSF). These species are not only nutrient-rich—particularly in high-quality protein, essential amino acids, fiber, and micronutrients—but also boast a significantly lower environmental impact compared to conventional livestock. As a result, edible insects are gaining traction as a sustainable and innovative protein source in a rapidly changing global food landscape.

With the global population expected to surpass 9.7 billion by 2050, the strain on traditional protein sources continues to intensify. Livestock farming demands large-scale land use, water consumption, and contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, insect farming is a resource-efficient and eco-friendly alternative, requiring less feed, space, and water while offering higher feed conversion rates. This aligns closely with global sustainability targets and climate change mitigation strategies, making edible insects a key player in the future of food systems.

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Segmentation Analysis

By Product Type:

• Insect Powder: Insect powder dominates the market owing to its versatility and easy incorporation into a wide range of products including protein bars, baked goods, smoothies, and pasta. The neutral flavor profile and fine texture of insect powder make it ideal for product development in both mainstream and niche food categories.

• Whole Insects and Processed Foods: Whole roasted insects and processed edible insect snacks such as chips, pasta, and protein crackers also show promising demand, especially in Asia-Pacific and European gourmet markets where such products are increasingly positioned as superfoods.

By Insect Type:

• Black Soldier Fly (BSF): BSF leads the segment, primarily due to its superior scalability, high feed conversion efficiency, and ability to convert organic waste into high-quality protein. Its primary applications lie in animal feed and aquaculture, where its protein profile supports optimal animal health.

• Crickets and Mealworms: These remain popular in human food segments, appreciated for their nutty flavor, digestibility, and high nutritional value, particularly in health-focused and athletic nutrition markets.

By Application:

• Animal Feed: Representing the largest share of the market, animal feed applications are expanding rapidly. Edible insects are being adopted in aquafeed, poultry, and pet food due to their nutritional superiority and eco-efficiency. Industry players are entering into collaborations with agritech startups and feed manufacturers to scale up insect protein production.

• Human Food: While still a smaller segment, the human food category is witnessing a gradual rise in adoption. Increasing awareness, culinary experimentation, and new product launches are helping normalize insect consumption in mainstream markets. Insect-based protein bars, flour, and ready-to-eat snacks are gaining shelf space in specialty stores and e-commerce platforms.

Regional Insights

Europe:

Europe holds the largest market share, accounting for more than 38% of the global edible insects market in 2025. This dominance stems from a combination of factors including:

• Regulatory clarity under the EU’s Novel Food regulations,

• High consumer openness to alternative proteins, and

• A thriving ecosystem of food-tech startups and R&D hubs.

Countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands are leading innovators in insect farming and processing technologies. European companies such as Ÿnsect, Protix, and Entomo Farms have significantly scaled operations, benefiting from government incentives and public-private partnerships.

North America:

North America is identified as the fastest-growing regional market, with an expected CAGR of 17.8% from 2025 to 2033. The region’s growth is fueled by:

• Increasing adoption of insect protein in pet food, aquafeed, and livestock feed,

• Supportive regulatory actions from the FDA and USDA, and

• Rising investments in insect farming infrastructure.

The U.S. and Canada are witnessing a surge in startup activity, with companies innovating around automated farming systems and sustainable feedstock utilization. Consumer acceptance is also on the rise, with edible insect products entering health food stores, online platforms, and gourmet restaurant menus.

Key Market Players

• Ÿnsect

• Entomo Farms

• Aspire Food Group

• Protix

• InnovaFeed

• EnviroFlight

• Jiminy’s

• Crickstart

• Beta Hatch

• Bugsolutely

Market Outlook

The global edible insects market is set to experience transformational growth, driven by urgent calls for sustainable protein sources, expanding research into insect-based nutrition, and evolving consumer preferences. While challenges such as regulatory barriers, cultural resistance, and scaling limitations persist, continued innovation and education will likely bridge the gap toward mainstream adoption.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the projected market size for edible insects by 2033?
The global edible insects market is projected to reach USD 5.91 billion by 2033.

2. Which region is leading the edible insects market?
Europe leads the market due to favorable regulations, high consumer acceptance, and strong food innovation infrastructure.

3. What are the key drivers of market growth?
Key drivers include environmental sustainability, rising global protein demand, and growing interest in food-tech innovations.

4. What is the fastest-growing application segment?
Animal feed, particularly aquafeed and pet food, is the fastest-growing application due to commercial viability and proven nutritional benefits.

5. Which insect type is most widely used?
The Black Soldier Fly (BSF) is the most widely used insect, especially in animal feed and waste recycling systems.