Edible insects have been touted as the future of sustainable protein sources for decades. In 2013, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization even released a report urging the world to embrace entomophagy or the practice of eating insects. But the truth is, the future of edible insects isn't some far-off dream that will materialize in 2040. It's happening right now, in 2023.
You heard that right, the future of edible insects is happening right now. While some people may still feel squeamish about the idea of eating bugs, the reality is that insects have been consumed by humans for thousands of years and are already a common part of the diet in many parts of the world.
Now, let's get one thing straight: insects are not here to replace meat. We're not suggesting that you give up your juicy steak or your BBQ ribs. That's not going away.
The Umami
First, let's talk about umami. If you're not familiar with umami, it's often described as the fifth taste, after sweet, salty, sour, and bitter. It's a savory flavor that's hard to describe, but once you taste it, you know it. And guess what? Edible insects are packed with umami. In fact, umami is one of the main reasons why many people find insect snacks so delicious.
Umami is a Japanese term that translates to "pleasant savory taste," and it's often described as a flavor sensation that enhances the taste of food. It's found naturally in foods such as mushrooms, soy sauce, and aged cheeses, and it's a flavor that is highly desirable in many cuisines around the world.
This savory flavor is present in many different types of insects, including crickets, grasshoppers, mealworms, and more. Insects are often used in dishes to enhance the umami flavor and add a unique twist to traditional recipes.
The high umami content in insects is one of the main reasons why they are becoming more popular in Western cuisine. People are beginning to appreciate the unique and delicious taste that insects can bring to a dish, and as a result, insect-based products are becoming more widely available. Whether you're snacking on roasted crickets or adding mealworms to a stir-fry, you're sure to enjoy the rich umami flavor that insects have to offer.
They're healthy
Did you know that eating insects is not only delicious but also super healthy? Take crickets, for example. These little critters are packed with protein, iron, and calcium, making them the ultimate fuel for repairing and building tissues in the body. And let's not forget about the healthy fats, like omega-3 and omega-6, which can help keep your heart and brain in tip-top shape.
But wait, there's more! Insects are also chock-full of important micro-nutrients like iron and calcium. So, not only will you be building strong bones and carrying oxygen throughout your body, but you'll also be reducing inflammation and lowering your risk of chronic diseases like arthritis and heart disease.
And let's not forget about the vitamins and minerals! Crickets are a great source of vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production. Plus, insects are loaded with zinc to keep your immune system strong, and magnesium to regulate muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure.
They're Sustainable
Let's talk about the planet, shall we? It's no secret that traditional livestock farming can have a big impact on the environment. Raising cattle, for example, requires large amounts of land, water, and feed. And let's not forget about all the greenhouse gas emissions that cows produce - methane, anyone?
On the other hand, insect farming requires significantly less space and water than traditional livestock farming. And because insects are so efficient at converting feed to protein, they require less feed overall. In fact, some estimates suggest that crickets require up to 12 times less feed than cattle to produce the same amount of protein. So if you're looking to reduce your carbon footprint, swapping out some of your meat for insect protein is a great place to start.
In addition to being more sustainable than traditional livestock farming, insect farming can also help to address global food security challenges. With the world's population expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, we need to find new and innovative ways to produce food. Insects are one such solution. They're easy to farm, require minimal resources, and can be raised in a variety of environments. And because they're so nutrient-dense, they can provide a valuable source of protein and other essential nutrients for people in areas where food is scarce.
But it's not just about reducing our environmental impact - insect farming can also have a positive impact on local economies. In many parts of the world, insects are already a common part of the diet. By promoting insect farming, we can create new opportunities for small-scale farmers and help diversify local food systems. And because insect farming requires less land and water than traditional farming, it can be a more sustainable and resilient way to produce food in areas where resources are scarce.
You got choices! and THC?
Of course, there are also plenty of different types of insects to try. From crunchy crickets to chewy mealworms, there's something for everyone. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even try infused insects. While some people might be a bit hesitant to try something new and different, there's a whole world of insect snacks out there just waiting to be explored.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch in their snack, there are a number of options to choose from. Crickets are a classic crunchy snack, and they come in a variety of flavors, from salt and vinegar to honey mustard. Mealworms are another great option - they're slightly softer than crickets, but still, provide that satisfying crunch. And if you're looking for something a bit more unique, how about trying some roasted grasshoppers or ants?
If chewy snacks are more your thing, fear not - there are plenty of options for you too. Waxworms, for example, are a chewy and sweet treat that many people love. They have a nutty, almost honey-like flavor that's quite unique. Another great option is silkworms - they're a bit larger than other insect snacks, but their chewy texture and slightly nutty flavor make them a great addition to any snack mix.
And of course, there are plenty of infused insect snacks out there too. Dusty Beetles is definitely the go-to when it comes to infused insect snacks. That's us btw.
The Future is Now. Literally.
But back to the main point: the future of edible insects is happening right now. Companies like Dusty Beetles are at the forefront of this movement, creating tasty and sustainable insect snacks that are already on the market. Globally there are even more vendors doing their best to meet the rising demand.
When it comes to sustainable protein sources, there's no doubt that insects are leading the way. With their high nutritional value and low environmental impact, they're the perfect food for a growing population that's increasingly concerned about the planet. Farmers around the world are taking note of the growing demand for insect protein, and are starting to invest in insect farming. And the best part? You don't have to wait for the future to enjoy the benefits of insect protein - it's already here.
The future of edible insects is not some far-off dream. It's happening right now in 2023, and it's delicious, healthy, and sustainable. So give it a try and see for yourself why edible insects are the way of the future.
