Edible insect proteins: how can they be a driver for food innovation?

Abstract

In recent years, much has been discussed about the use of edible insects as an alternative source of protein. Rearing insects require less use of land and water, as well as generate fewer greenhouse gases compared with conventional livestock. In this scenario, research has been carried out to explore the use of insect proteins as food ingredients since the decharacterization of insects increases their acceptance by consumers. Insect proteins display interesting technofunctional properties, such as the ability to form and stabilize emulsions, foams, and gels. Moreover, some studies already used insect proteins or insect flours to partially replace conventional ingredients in food formulations, mainly in bakery and meat analog products, obtaining promising results. However, to validate edible insects as a food ingredient, some challenges need to be overcome, such as the implementation of new regulations, increasing consumer acceptance, a better understanding of allergenic risks and toxicity, and using viable unit operations to scale up the production of protein-rich insect ingredients at an industrial level.