What's eating North America's edible insect industry? An examination of psychological, cultural and regulatory barriers

Authors: LI, CHRISTL - Tufts University; CASH, SEAN - Tufts University; LESNIK, JULIE - Wayne State University; GRIFFIN, TIMOTHY - Tufts University; MASON, JOEL - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University; BLACKSTONE, NICOLE - Tufts University

Submitted to: Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/1/2021
Publication Date: 8/6/2021
Citation: Li, C., Cash, S.B., Lesnik, J., Griffin, T., Mason, J.B., Blackstone, N. 2021. What's eating North America's edible insect industry? An examination of psychological, cultural and regulatory barriers. Renewable Agriculture and Food Systems. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1742170521000314.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/S1742170521000314

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Although research has demonstrated the positive nutritional value and environmental benefits associated with edible insect consumption, several factors challenge the growth and development of the edible insect industry for human consumption in the US and Canada. Cultural and psychological factors account for much of the aversion US and Canadian consumers display. The absence of specific regulation also constitutes a structural barrier to more widespread production and sale of edible insects. Compared to the US, the European Union has a more developed edible insect industry and has enacted legislation that removes some of the barriers. As consumer awareness of the putative health benefits of edible insects increases, more comprehensive regulations may emerge to keep pace with the growth of this industry. Overall, a multi-disciplinary approach that addresses both benefits and barriers to consumption is needed to facilitate a robust market for edible insects in the US and Canada.