Edible insects are not new. In many cultures around the world, they are a standard element of the diet. Interest in them is also growing in Poland, mainly due to their impact on sustainable development, their potential to combat global food problems, and their rich content of easily digestible protein. Insects, due to their nutritional value and low environmental impact, are increasingly recognized as an alternative protein source.
What insects can you eat?
There are more than 1,900 species of insects in the world. In Europe, 4 types are allowed, intended for food purposes. Powdery mildew, house crickets and migratory locusts are the most popular species in Poland. They are relatively easy to grow and process, and the taste is mild, making it easy to include them in a variety of dishes.
source: foodbugs
Nutritional value of edible insects
Edible insects are a rich source of high-quality protein that is easily absorbed by the human body. Depending on the species, dried insects can contain up to 60% protein. They are also an excellent source of iron – they contain more of this mineral per 100 grams than chicken or pork. They also contain valuable omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins including B12, and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and calcium. The nutritional value of insects means that they can be an important part of a healthy and fit diet.
Is it safe to eat insects?
Any food production is responsible for food safety. The EFSA allows some species to be traded in the European Union, while government agencies in many European countries have taken care to safely introduce certain insects to store shelves in their countries. As with other products, insect repellent products pass m.in. microbiological studies. Manufacturers of this type of food, as well as insect farms, have also implemented the HACCP system. If the insects come from a proven farm, then consumers should have no reason to worry.
source: foodbugs
What insect-based products are available in Poland?
Various insect-based products are available in Poland, including pasta, snacks, protein bars, and even cricket powder (commonly known as cricket flour), which can be successfully used to make various dishes such as pancakes or protein cakes. More and more manufacturers are offering insect repellent products, making them more accessible to consumers interested in sustainable nutrition.
Where can I find insect protein-based products?
Insect protein-based products can be found in health food stores, Carrefour hypermarkets and supermarkets, as well as online stores that specialize in selling organic products. You can also find them on the website of Polish manufacturers, such as the company FoodBugs. More and more restaurants and cafes are adding insect-infused food and snacks to their menu, which makes it a great opportunity to try them in a professionally prepared way.
source: foodbugs
What is the future of this food?
Edible insects can be an important part of a balanced diet. Their use benefits both health and the environment. Discovering new tastes and breaking down cultural barriers can revolutionize the way we think about food and its production. As societies become increasingly aware of the need for sustainability and seek alternatives to traditional protein sources, edible insects can play a key role in the future of the global food system.
Changing food habits on a global scale takes time and education, but the growing availability and variety of insect-based products are contributing to this transformation. A growing number of studies confirming the health benefits of including insects in the human diet can convince even the most skeptical consumers.
Junior specialist in Marketing Communications and PR.
He is a graduate of the University of Warsaw and the Main School of Agriculture. We have been in the HoReCa industry for more than 10 years. For many years, he has been associated with the Trip group, Sobienie Royal Golf and Country Club, and the Florentin Restaurant in Warsaw.
She graduated from the Faculty of Architecture of the Warsaw Technical University with a degree in Architecture for the Knowledge Society and Visual Communications at the Polytechnic University of Milan. A specialist in creating a mood. She has gained experience at home and abroad at numerous international seminars (Seville, Lisbon, Florence), fellowships at La Sapienza (Rome), etc. m.in. in Carmi e Ubertis and ADM Milano.
A manager with many years of experience in the cosmetics, food, and children's industries. During his career, he was associated with such companies as: L'Oreal, Samsung, Danone-Nutricia, Unilever. During his professional life, he was responsible, among other things, for the development of e-commerce sales and content in Poland and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. 
