Page 10 - My FlipBook

Edible insects, such as these fried crickets,
are high in protein and have good levels of
micronutrients such as iron and zinc.

‘ick factor’ remains one of the biggest barriers to edible insects
becoming the norm.” 20
Setting squeamishness aside, the benefi ts of insect farming
become obvious. Edible insects are highly nutritious. They are
extremely high in protein, have good levels of micronutrients such
as iron and zinc, and provide healthy polyunsaturated fats. Yet
they are extremely low in calories. They could be raised in large
numbers, both indoors and out, as they require very little space,
placing minimal stress on the world’s land and water resourc-
es. Producing 1 pound (454 g) of protein from insects requires 2
pounds (907 g) of feed, 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water, and 2 cubic feet
(56,634 cu. cm) of land. In contrast, producing 1 pound of beef
uses 10 pounds (4.5 kg) of feed, 1,000 gallons (3,785 L) of water,
and 200 square feet (18.6 sq. m) of grazing land.

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