Industry: Food and Beverages
Published Date: January-2025
Format: PPT*, PDF, EXCEL
Delivery Timelines: Contact Sales
Number of Pages: 186
Report ID: PMRREP11491
The global edible insects market is estimated to reach a size of US$ 2.31 Bn in 2025. It is predicted to rise at a CAGR of 10.5% through the assessment period to attain a value of US$ 4.66 Bn by 2032.
Edible insects like crickets and beetles are being cultivated as healthier alternatives to traditional protein sources due to their nutrient-dense nature and reduced resource requirements. Governments in developing countries like India and China are educating consumers about the health benefits of insect-based protein, promoting a sustainable food ecosystem.
Cultural perceptions and unclear legal guidelines hinder market growth, while beetles and crickets are the most consumed invertebrates due to their nutritional value and disease resistance. For instance, in September 2023, a key initiative was launched by India’s government to promote insect farming, aimed at boosting nutritional standards in rural communities.
The quest for sustainable and alternative protein sources is driving global market participants to explore new products that include edible insects. The industry is anticipated to grow because of continuing research and growing popularity among younger and older populations looking for better food alternatives.
Key Highlights of the Market
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Market Attributes |
Key Insights |
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Edible Insects Market Size (2025E) |
US$ 2.31 Bn |
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Projected Market Value (2032F) |
US$ 4.66 Bn |
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Global Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2025 to 2032) |
10.5% |
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Historical Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2019 to 2025) |
9.9% |
In 2025, North America is estimated to account for 15.3% of the global market for edible insects. The market is anticipated to rise at a CAGR of 10.6% from 2025 to 2032 due to rising demand for sustainable protein sources.
Growing awareness of agricultural losses and dietary inadequacies has led to the U.S. advocating diet optimization, with mealworms and crickets being popular low-fat, high-protein substitutes. For example,
Start-ups in the U.S. are enhancing cricket protein snacks and supplements, bolstering North America's position due to the shift towards environmentally friendly and nutrient-dense diets.
In 2025, Europe is envisioned to dominate the global edible insects industry, holding a value share of 31.4%. It is projected to report a CAGR of 10.4% from 2025 to 2032. For example,
Edible insects, a low-resource, environmentally friendly protein source, are gaining popularity in Europe due to advancements in agricultural technology, government financing, and institutional support. Leading countries like Belgium and the Netherlands are spearheading innovation in the production and consumption of edible insects.
In 2025, beetles are set to emerge as a popular edible insect in the Western world, capturing an estimated 34.4% of the global market share. Beetles, once a staple in Asian households, are gaining popularity in Europe and North America due to their high nutritional value, including protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. The market is fueled by consumer awareness of sustainable food sources and their environmental benefits. For example,
Start-ups like Ÿnsect have increased production capacity to meet the demand, while North American companies are experimenting with roasted and flavored beetle snacks. The beetle's appeal aligns with a broader shift toward eco-friendly diets, making them a cornerstone of the edible insect industry's expansion.
In the edible insects industry, the whole form segment is poised to maintain its dominance. It is set to hold a market share of 46.6% in 2025. This dominance is anticipated to continue, with a projected CAGR of 10.5% over the next ten years.
Consumers prefer convenient and versatile forms of insect-based products, which can be easily incorporated into a variety of food applications. The rise in health-conscious consumers, coupled with the growing awareness of the environmental benefits of edible insects, supports this segment's growth. Innovations in processing and packaging have made insect-based products more appealing, leading to higher adoption across different regions and demographics
Growing concerns about food security, an understanding of the nutritional value of insect-based proteins, and an emphasis on sustainability and environmental conscience are contributing to the demand for edible insects. Rising demand for insect proteins in popular food products like protein bars, snacks, and drinks has led to a recent boom in investments in insect farming.
The need for alternative protein sources is expanding in developed regions like North America and Europe due to regulatory approvals and robust food safety frameworks. Insect-based products are being developed for pet food and animal feed industries, indicating market diversification beyond human consumption. Demand for culinary insects is surging due to increasing global population and businesses using the circular economy to provide healthier and more environmentally friendly food alternatives.
The global edible insects market recorded a considerable CAGR of 9.9% in the historical period from 2019 to 2023. Because of their smaller ecological imprint, insects are being used as a food source in response to the increased demand for animal-based feed and food.
Insect consumption is also influenced by human culture and health. Businesses are concentrating on keeping insects for long-term freshness, and new methods are being developed to gather insects more effectively.
Legal regulations as well as safety and health concerns, however, continue to impede market growth. Businesses are creating components for edible insects and providing information on the nutrients they contain. Demand for insect snacks is estimated to record a steady CAGR of 10.5% during the forecast period between 2025 and 2032.
Rising Investments in Commercial Insect Farming to Scale Up Production
The edible insect business is rising due to increased investments in commercial insect farming operations. Insects like crickets and mealworms are recognized as sustainable protein sources, leading to increased financial support for farming operations. For instance,
Investments in infrastructure, breeding techniques, and feeding systems are being made to improve efficiency and scalability in commercial insect farming. Automation and precision farming technologies are enhancing cost-effectiveness and sustainability.
Demand for edible insects is driven by research, growing acceptance in economies, and efforts to reduce environmental impact. Sustainable agriculture and global food security concerns are expected to drive growth of commercial insect farming.
Step toward Healthy Lifestyle Rises with Innovative Dietary Preferences
Consumption of edible insects is being driven by consumers' desire for a healthy lifestyle and their search for nutrient-dense, sustainable substitutes for conventional protein sources. For example,
Food-grade certified insects are important for consumer trust and market expansion, as they meet safety standards, boosting confidence and encouraging wider adoption. The advantages of insect farming for the environment and human health are making it more and more popular. Businesses like Beyond Meat are collaborating with farmers to develop cutting-edge insect-based goods, advancing sustainability in both general and specialized markets.
Consumer Preferences in Traditional and Plant-based Diet to Hamper Adoption
The industry of edible insects faces considerable obstacles from the traditional meat and plant-based protein sectors as customers in developed nations are less receptive to novel possibilities and prefer well-known substitutes. For instance,
Plant-based companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods, which capitalize on advanced marketing techniques highlighting convenience, flavor, and nutrition, have strengthened customer devotion to traditional and plant-based proteins. The idea that eating insects is only done in underdeveloped nations and the misconception that they are pests turn off prospective customers in wealthy markets.
Adaptation of Novel Technology to Open New Avenues for Insect Farming
Insect producers worldwide are adopting advanced breeding methods, including IoT and other emerging technologies, to enhance efficiency and profitability. For instance,
In insect farming, IoT integration improves growing conditions, temperature, and humidity, increasing output and product quality. Such a strategy ensures a steady supply, increases profitability, and broadens the market for edible insects.
Partnerships with Athletes and Nutritionists to Promote Insect-based Products
The potential for edible insects to transform sustainable protein sources is altering nutrition, and adoption may be fueled by athlete and dietician endorsements. Athletes, as symbols of peak health and performance, can promote innovative dietary choices, bridging the gap between traditional diets and edible insects with exceptional nutritional profiles.
Crickets, rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids, are ideal for athletes due to their high protein content. By sharing personal experiences and showcasing how insect-based products enhance performance, athletes can effectively promote these foods on social media. Nutritionists can influence public opinion by promoting edible insects' health and environmental benefits and collaborating with experts like IPIFF to make them a key part of sustainable diets.
The edible insects market is competitive and dynamic, with well-established enterprises and forward-thinking start-ups. Competition increases as customers learn about sustainable protein sources and nutrient-dense substitutes.
Improvements in supply chain efficiency, innovative product creation, and successful branding tactics are important elements that contribute to the dynamic economy. Leading market players create unique recipes and taste profiles to differentiate themselves from competitors. They offer diverse product variations to meet dietary needs and preferences. Through creative promotional tactics and understanding consumer demand, they aim to attract health-conscious individuals seeking protein-rich options that align with their lifestyles, capturing their attention.
Recent Industry Developments
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Attributes |
Details |
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Forecast Period |
2025 to 2032 |
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Historical Data Available for |
2019 to 2023 |
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Market Analysis |
US$ Billion for Value |
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Key Regions Covered |
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Key Market Segments Covered |
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Key Companies Profiled in the Report |
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Report Coverage |
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Customization and Pricing |
Available upon request |
By Insect Type
By Form
By Distribution
By Region
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The market size is set to reach US$ 4.66 Bn by 2032.
Common types of insects for gaining profit are crickets, grasshopper, and beetles, among other diverse species.
In 2025, Europe is set to hold a market share of 31.4%.
In 2025, the market is estimated to be valued at US$ 2.31 Bn.
Darling Ingredients (EnviroFlight®), Protix, Innovafeed, Nutrition Technologies, JR Unique Foods Ltd., Part, Ÿnsect, and Chapul, LLC. are a few key players.
