Edible insects are not a “new food trend,” as they have been eaten since the beginning of mankind. However, eating insects has become taboo in the Western world where animal proteins have become the protein of choice. Now, people from all over the world are recognizing the advantages edible insects can offer from less methane production to quick reproduction and high protein levels. It turns out that edible insects are better sources of protein than meat.
5 Reasons Edible Insects are Better than Meat
1. Protein Content: The protein content of insects versus other forms of meat is comparable depending on the species. In some species, protein content was as high as 81 percent.
2. Essential Amino Acids: There are nine essential amino acids humans require to sustain life, and all nine are found in edible insects at varying levels. All nine amino acids are not available in plant-based proteins, so acknowledging insects as a life-sustaining alternative to meat and eggs is significant. Insects offer a readily available source of complete protein.
3. Minerals: Edible insects are rich in many minerals such as phosphorous, iron, calcium, zinc, copper, magnesium, and manganese. These mineral aid the body in many functions.
4. Digestible: Chitin is what exoskeletons of some insects are composed of, and it is debatable whether or not humans can easily digest exoskeletons. A lot of research says yes. Either way, insect protein is easier to digest than other forms of protein especially when the exoskeleton is cooked or removed.
5. Eco-friendly: Inarguably, the best reason that edible insects are a better source of protein than meat is that the production of insect protein from start to finish is more Earth-friendly. It requires less space, less chemical, and less time to create and recreate the protein. The space and chemical reduction reduces the carbon footprint of the edible insect industry compared to the raising and butchering of livestock. The time and efficiency with which insects grow and reproduce can answer the foody supply problem of the growing population of Earth.
You can look at edible insects as a better source of protein than meat from a nutritional standpoint or a globally-conscious view, without health risks for us.