1 Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Insight Analysis
The global Edible Insects for Feed market is valued at USD 824.84 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 29.45% from 2024 to 2033.
Edible insects for feed refer to insect species that are cultivated and processed for use as animal feed. These insects, which include mealworms, black soldier flies, and crickets, among others, are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, and vitamins. They offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional feed sources such as soybeans and corn. The use of edible insects in feed not only reduces the environmental footprint but also provides a high-quality protein source for livestock, poultry, aquaculture, and pet food industries.
Figure Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Edible Insects for Feed Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
High nutritional value and sustainable advantages: Insects are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc and other nutrients, and are low in fat, low in feeding costs and low in pollution. With the global population growth and the increase in demand for meat consumption, traditional feed sources (such as soybeans, corn, etc.) consume huge amounts of land and water resources, and edible insect feed, as a new alternative energy source for feed, has become increasingly sustainable. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations believes that insects are high-quality future food to solve human food problems, environmental pollution and global warming, which provides strong support for the development of the edible insect feed market.
Government supervision and policy promotion: Governments in many countries and regions have a positive attitude towards the edible insect feed market and regulate the market through legislation and product standards. The European Union allows the use of insects in aquaculture feeds, and Canada has also approved the market sales of insect-based pet food. These measures provide a legal way for the commercialization of edible insect feed and promote the development of the market. Active government supervision means that the market is more standardized and active, attracting more companies to participate in the production and sales of edible insect feed.
Corporate investment and market expansion: As the demand for edible insects continues to grow, related companies are actively carrying out investment activities to raise funds for expansion plans. For example, Nutrition Technologies received $8.5 million in Series A financing to build a commercial-scale insect protein facility; Ynsect also received a large amount of funds to build the world’s largest insect farm. Companies also expand their consumer base and increase the market coverage of their products through strategic partnerships, unique marketing strategies and the expansion of modern trade channels. These corporate activities have driven the scale expansion and development of the edible insect feed market.
High cost: At present, the price of edible insect feed is relatively high, which is one of the main barriers to its entry into the mainstream market. Since production has not yet achieved economies of scale, large-scale production requires a large amount of capital to build facilities, resulting in high costs. To use it as a sustainable source of nutrition worldwide, a large-scale increase in production is required, but the high cost of this process limits the further expansion of the market.
Insect safety issues: Edible insects have certain safety risks, such as pesticide and heavy metal contamination, natural toxins, and possible transmission of infectious diseases. Some people may also be allergic to insects. In large-scale production, these risks need to be further studied and determined to ensure feed safety. At present, the safety of using feces as a breeding substrate also needs further research. Only by ensuring high quality and safety can edible insect feed be more widely used.
Unclear regulations: The lack of specific regulations for edible insect production, including the use of insects, labeling standards and other administrative means, is a major obstacle to the development of the industry, especially in developed countries. The approval of insect feed ingredients in animal feed varies from country to country. For example, insect meal has not been approved as a pet food ingredient in the United States and has not been approved as an ingredient in aquatic feed and poultry feed in Canada. These regulatory restrictions may hinder the growth of demand for edible insects as an alternative protein source and increase uncertainty in corporate investment.
3 Technological Innovations in the Edible Insects for Feed Market
Optimization of production technology: Enterprises continue to explore and adopt new technologies and materials to optimize insect breeding and processing. Nutrition Technologies has developed a unique modular black soldier fly larvae production system at its production base in Malaysia, using a variety of cost-saving green technologies to improve production efficiency. This technological innovation helps to reduce production costs, improve product quality, and enhance the competitiveness of enterprises in the market.
Product innovation: To meet the nutritional needs of different animals, enterprises continue to innovate in product research and development. InnovaFeed extracts insect protein and oil from black soldier fly larvae and develops Protinno (insect protein) and Saninno (insect oil) for pet food. These products have the characteristics of high digestibility and low allergy, which can provide pets with better nutrition, enrich the product variety of edible insect feed, and meet the diversified needs of the market.
Expand market share: Enterprises integrate resources and expand market share through mergers and acquisitions. Ynsect acquired Protifarm in the Netherlands, a move that enabled Ynsect to quickly gain greater influence in the alternative protein market after the European Food Standards Agency approved mealworms for human consumption. Through the acquisition, Ynsect can use Protifarm’s production facilities and market channels to further expand its business scope and market share.
Expanding business areas: Some companies expand their business areas and achieve synergistic development by establishing strategic partnerships with other companies. Cargill and InnovaFeed have reached a strategic partnership to jointly bring fish feed containing insect protein to the market to support the development of sustainable aquaculture. This cooperation not only enables the two parties to share resources and complement each other’s advantages in the field of aquatic feed, but also provides a broader platform for the promotion of edible insect feed in the aquaculture industry.
4 Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size by Type
Meal (Powder) is projected to generate a revenue of 367.37 million USD in 2024, accounting for 44.54% of the total market income. This type of insect-based feed is highly versatile and is widely used across multiple applications due to its ease of incorporation into various feed formulations. The high protein content and long shelf life of meal make it an attractive option for livestock, poultry, aquaculture, and pet food industries.
Its ability to be mixed with other ingredients without altering the overall feed composition further enhances its marketability. The growth in this segment is driven by the increasing demand for high-protein, sustainable feed solutions that can support the nutritional needs of animals while reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional feed sources.
Oils are expected to contribute a revenue of 266.89 million USD, representing 32.36% of the market share in 2024. These oils, derived from insects, are rich in essential fatty acids and other nutrients that are beneficial for animal health. They are particularly popular in the aquaculture and pet food sectors, where the need for high-quality fats to support growth and development is significant. The use of insect oils in feed not only provides a sustainable alternative to fish oils but also enhances the overall nutritional profile of the feed. The growing awareness of the environmental benefits of using insect-derived products, coupled with the increasing demand for healthier and more sustainable feed options, is driving the market growth for this segment.
Whole (Dried Insects) are anticipated to achieve a market revenue of 152.64 million USD, holding an 18.51% share of the total market income in 2024. Whole dried insects retain the complete nutritional profile of the insects, making them a valuable feed option for applications where the full spectrum of nutrients is required. They are commonly used in pet food and specialty feeds for exotic animals, where the natural and unprocessed form of the insects can provide additional benefits. The market for whole dried insects is also driven by the increasing demand for natural and minimally processed feed ingredients, particularly in the pet food industry, where consumers are seeking healthier and more sustainable options for their pets.
Table Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Meal (Powder) | 367.37 |
Oils | 266.89 |
Whole (Dried Insects) | 152.64 |
Others | 37.94 |
5 Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size by Application
The livestock sector is anticipated to generate a revenue of 124.17 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. This segment is driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and high-protein feed sources, as the global population grows and meat consumption rises. Edible insects offer a sustainable solution with a lower environmental footprint compared to traditional feed sources like soybeans and corn. Livestock farmers are particularly attracted to edible insects due to their ability to reduce feed costs while maintaining high nutritional value, making them an increasingly popular choice in the industry.
The poultry sector is expected to see significant growth, with a projected revenue of 153.10 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. Poultry farming is one of the fastest-growing segments in the animal husbandry industry, and the use of edible insects in poultry feed is gaining traction. These insects are rich in protein and can improve the overall health and productivity of poultry birds. Regulatory approvals and increasing consumer awareness about sustainable farming practices are further boosting the market, as poultry farmers seek to enhance the nutritional profile of their feed with natural and sustainable alternatives.
The swine feed market is also exploring the potential of edible insects, with an anticipated revenue of 43.78 million USD in 2024. Edible insects provide essential amino acids and other nutrients that can improve the growth and health of pigs. However, the adoption rate in this sector is relatively lower compared to livestock and poultry due to specific regulatory and feed formulation challenges. Despite these hurdles, the potential benefits of using edible insects in swine feed are driving research and development efforts aimed at overcoming existing barriers and expanding their use in this market.
The pet food industry is poised for significant growth, with a projected revenue of 185.66 million USD from edible insects in 2024. This market is highly dynamic and consumer-driven, with pet owners increasingly seeking healthier and more environmentally friendly options for their pets. Edible insects provide a high-protein, low-fat alternative that aligns with these consumer preferences. The pet food industry is leveraging the nutritional benefits of edible insects to develop innovative products that cater to the growing demand for premium pet food, driven by the increasing awareness of the health benefits of natural and sustainable ingredients.
The aquaculture sector is expected to generate a revenue of 276.10 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. Aquaculture is a rapidly growing industry with a significant demand for high-quality, sustainable feed. Edible insects, particularly black soldier fly larvae, are gaining popularity as a feed ingredient due to their high protein content and ability to support the growth and health of fish and other aquatic animals. The environmental benefits of using edible insects, such as reduced reliance on fishmeal and soybean meal, are driving the adoption of insect-based feeds in aquaculture. This segment is poised for significant growth as the industry seeks to meet the increasing global demand for seafood.
Table Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 |
|---|---|
Livestock | 124.17 |
Poultry | 153.10 |
Swine | 43.78 |
Pet Food | 185.66 |
Aquaculture | 276.10 |
Others | 42.02 |
6 Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size by Region
North America is expected to achieve a market revenue of 189.36 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. The region has been at the forefront of innovation in the edible insects for feed market, benefiting from advanced technological capabilities and a strong focus on sustainability. The United States and Canada are key markets, with significant investments in research and development. The region is also characterized by a high level of consumer awareness about sustainable practices, driving the adoption of edible insects in various feed applications.
Europe is projected to generate a revenue of 383.42 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. Europe is the largest market for edible insects for feed, driven by stringent regulations and a strong emphasis on sustainability. Countries like France, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom are leading the way in the adoption of insect-based feeds. The European market is characterized by a high level of regulatory support, with several countries approving the use of edible insects in animal feed. This region is also a hub for innovation, with many startups and established companies investing in the development of new products and technologies.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to achieve a market revenue of 187.76 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. The region is a rapidly growing market, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and high-protein feed sources. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are leading the way in the adoption of edible insects. The region benefits from a growing population and increasing demand for meat and seafood, driving the need for alternative feed sources. The Asia-Pacific market is also characterized by significant investments in research and development, with many companies exploring the potential of edible insects for feed.
South America is projected to generate a revenue of 30.67 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. South America is an emerging market for edible insects for feed, driven by increasing awareness about sustainable practices and the need for alternative feed sources. Brazil and Argentina are key markets in the region, with significant potential for growth. The region benefits from a strong agricultural sector and a growing demand for sustainable solutions. While the market is still in its early stages, the potential for growth is significant as more companies invest in the development of edible insect-based feeds.
The Middle East and Africa are expected to achieve a market revenue of 33.63 million USD from edible insects for feed in 2024. The region is an emerging market, driven by increasing demand for sustainable and high-protein feed sources. The region benefits from a growing population and increasing demand for meat and seafood, driving the need for alternative feed sources. Countries like the UAE and South Africa are leading the way in the adoption of edible insects. The market is still in its early stages, but the potential for growth is significant as more companies invest in the development of edible insect-based feeds.
Figure Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Edible Insects for Feed Market Analysis by Major Players
Ynsect
Company Profile: Ynsect is a leading company in the edible insects for feed industry, founded in 2011 in Paris, France. The company has quickly established itself as a pioneer in transforming insects into high-value ingredients for various applications, including pet food, fish, plants, and human consumption. Ynsect operates state-of-the-art farms in France and the Netherlands, focusing on sustainable and organic production methods.
Business Overview: Ynsect’s business model is centered around the production and distribution of insect-based products. The company aims to provide a sustainable alternative to traditional feed sources by leveraging the nutritional benefits of insects. Ynsect’s facilities are designed to optimize production efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The company has also expanded its operations to North America, further solidifying its global presence.
Product Offered: Ynsect offers a range of products, including Ÿnmeal, a high-protein powder made from mealworm larvae. This product is suitable for use in fish and poultry feed, providing essential nutrients for healthy growth. Ynsect’s commitment to innovation and sustainability has positioned it as a key player in the edible insects for feed market.
InnovaFeed
Company Profile: InnovaFeed is a biotechnology company that specializes in producing natural and sustainable ingredients for animal feed and plant nutrition. Founded in 2016 in Paris, France, InnovaFeed has quickly become a major player in the edible insects for feed market. The company’s focus on innovation and sustainability has led to significant growth and expansion.
Business Overview: InnovaFeed’s business is built on the premise of using insect rearing to produce high-quality, sustainable feed ingredients. The company’s production process involves rearing black soldier fly larvae, which are then processed into various products. InnovaFeed’s facilities are designed to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability.
Product Offered: InnovaFeed offers a range of products, including Protinno, a concentrated protein meal derived from black soldier fly larvae. This product is ideal for use in pet food and aquaculture, providing essential nutrients for healthy growth. InnovaFeed’s focus on innovation and sustainability has positioned it as a key player in the edible insects for feed market.