Traditional animal protein sources still dominate the pet food market. Whether it be beef, fish, or chicken, the pet food shelves are full of foods made with these protein sources. However, there is a growing demand for alternative, sustainable pet food proteins. From companies that are pioneering insect-based pet food products to pet owners slowly accepting this unique source of protein, the industry is buzzing with innovation in this new market. Today, we delve into the current status of insects in pet food, examine their health impacts on our furry friends, and evaluate their environmental footprint compared to traditional proteins. We can help you decide if it would be a worthwhile investment for your brand!
In the ever-evolving pet food industry, insects are making their mark as an unconventional yet sustainable source of protein. Companies like Enterra and EnviroFlight were early to the game and have invested heavily in technology and production facilities to raise black soldier fly larvae for the animal food market.[1] They not only cater to more commonplace pets such as dogs but also offer feed alternatives for exotic animals, young livestock, and poultry, showcasing the versatility of insects as feed. As well as BSFL, other insects like crickets and mealworms are also finding their way into pet food outside the reptile market. Despite the growing public acceptance of insect-based pet food and its increasing prevalence in niche markets, regulations and standards have been somewhat slow to change. At this time, only dried black soldier fly larvae and black soldier fly oil are allowed to be included in foods or treats for adult dogs. Crickets are found in some products in the market for dogs at this time, but there is a regulatory hurdle as they are not approved as an ingredient. More long term research is needed for additional insect protein sources and the regulatory process to gain approval for new ingredients for animal food is extremely long and expensive.
Despite the unusual nature of insect-based pet food, its nutritional profile has been found to fulfill the nutritional needs of our furry friends[2,3]. Insects are not only high in protein, but they also come packed with essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that are vital for pet health. Compared to traditional protein sources like chicken or beef, insect protein has been noted as an unlikely trigger for food allergies (primarily due to lack of exposure to this protein source in most pets) and easy digestibility, making it a promising alternative for pets with certain dietary restrictions or sensitivities. However, it's not all smooth sailing. There are concerns about insects consuming waste products leading to additional allergenic properties and the unknown long-term effects of an insect-based diet on pets.[4] Despite these trepidations, the research is currently promising, and we are likely to see growing popularity of insect based pet foods.
Turning to the environmental perspective, insect-based proteins have a substantially smaller ecological footprint than traditional proteins. This is one of the most substantive selling points for insect protein, regardless of whether it is for humans or pets. They require less land, water, and general resources to cultivate, making them a far more sustainable option. Notably, insects have the unique ability to consume waste products, further contributing to their environmental efficiency. However, this aspect can also introduce unknown variables affecting the palatability, allergenic status, and overall safety of the resulting pet food.[4] As the world grapples with the escalating need for sustainability across all industries, insect-based pet food might just be one of the innovative solutions we need. However, as with any new frontier, it is essential to tread with caution and rigorously examine any potential impacts.
In the grand scheme of sustainable and nutritious pet food options, insects are proving to be an exciting and promising alternative. From their nutritional richness to their potential in reducing our environmental footprint, insect-based pet foods have carved a niche that is likely to expand in the future. As more companies enter this space and as public acceptance grows, we can expect further innovation and refinement in the products available. However, it's crucial to continue research into potential health impacts and to establish clear regulations to ensure safety. Embracing change in our pets' diets is not only a step towards a sustainable future, but also a testament to our endless pursuit of better health for our furry friends. If your brand is interested in expanding into this new market, contact us and we can be your guide!
Works Cited
EnviroFlight. (n.d.). Retrieved June 15, 2023, from https://www.enviroflight.net/
https://ivcjournal.com/black-soldier-fly-dog-food/
Rumpold, B. A., & Schlüter, O. K. (2013). Nutritional composition and safety aspects of edible insects. Molecular nutrition & food research, 57(5), 802-823. Retrieved from https://europepmc.org/backend/ptpmcrender.fcgi?accid=PMC4473169&blobtype=pdf
Verbeke, W., Spranghers, T., De Clercq, P., De Smet, S., Sas, B., & Eeckhout, M. (2015). Insects in animal feed: Acceptance and its determinants among farmers, agriculture sector stakeholders and citizens. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 204, 72-87. Retrieved from https://europepmc.org/backend/ptpmcrender.fcgi?accid=PMC5664030&blobtype=pdf