EU Expands Approval of Insects in Food, But Market Growth Remains Limited

Despite nutritional and environmental benefits, insect-based foods struggle to gain widespread acceptance in Europe.

The European Union has approved the use of UV-treated mealworm larvae powder and other insect-derived ingredients in food products.
Insects offer high protein content and are more environmentally sustainable to produce than traditional livestock.
A 2023 production estimate of 2,755 tons of insects for human consumption in the EU remains negligible compared to millions of tons of traditional meat.
Consumer reluctance in Germany is high, with 83% of respondents in a recent survey reporting they have never eaten insects and 62% citing disgust as a primary barrier.
Insect-based products must be clearly labeled, and their higher production costs contribute to limited adoption in mainstream food markets.