General
What are the most common insect species used in the U.S. today?
For human food, the House Cricket and Yellow Mealworm are most common. For animal feed, the Black Soldier Fly is the industry leader due to its ability to consume organic waste.
Western consumers are generally more open to eating insects in what specific form, rather than eating them whole?
Processed forms, such as powders, flours, or protein bars.
How does the iron content of insects compare to traditional red meat?
Many insects, like crickets, actually have higher iron levels than beef. Some studies show crickets provide about 6-10 mg of iron per 100g, while beef provides roughly 2-3 mg.
Name one of the two Oregon-based insect startups mentioned in your research.
Cricket Flours (Portland) or Chapul Farms (McMinnville).
Are there more than just a few types of edible insects?
Yes, there are over 1,900 to 2,000 recorded edible insect species worldwide, though only a small handful are currently farmed at an industrial scale in the West.
How does the iron content of insects compare to traditional red meat?
Many insects, like crickets, actually have higher iron levels than beef. Some studies show crickets provide about 6-10 mg of iron per 100g, while beef provides roughly 2-3 mg.
According to research (by Verbeke in 2015), what percentage of Western consumers are currently willing to try insect-based foods?
Fewer than 25%
According to the FAO, what is the projected global population by 2050 that is driving the need for more protein sources?
9.7 billion people.
How can Black Soldier Fly larvae specifically benefit Oregon’s environmental goals beyond just providing protein?
They can convert food waste into usable protein (Waste Valorization), reducing landfill inputs.
People with an allergy to what common seafood should be cautious when consuming insects?
Is "insect flour" just ground-up bugs, or is it chemically altered?
It is generally a whole food product. The insects are typically dry-roasted and then milled into a fine powder, preserving almost all the original nutrients, including healthy fats and minerals like Vitamin B12.
Does age play a role in who is most likely to eat insects?
Yes. Younger generations (Gen Z and Millennials) show much higher "openness to experience" and are more motivated by climate change, making them the primary target market for edible insects in the U.S.
If it takes approximately 1,800 to 2,000 gallons of water to produce one single pound of beef, how much water does it take to produce an equivalent pound of cricket protein?
It takes about 1 gallon of water for one pound of equivalent cricket protein.
Globally, what is the insect protein market is valued at?
Approximately $2.5 to $3.75 billion in 2026 and is growing at an explosive rate (CAGR) of about 25-30%.
What is "frass," and why is it mentioned in insect farming?
How long does it take to "grow" a crop of crickets compared to a beef cow?
A cricket reaches harvest size in about 6 to 8 weeks, whereas a beef cow typically takes 18 to 24 months to reach market weight.
Why is "social proof" important for this issue?
People are significantly more likely to try an insect-based food if they see a peer or a "trusted source" (like a teacher, parent, friend or a local farmer) eat it first.
Does giving consumers more "sustainability data" help them overcome disgust?
Surprisingly, research shows that logic rarely beats emotion. Telling someone a bug is "eco-friendly" usually isn't enough to make them eat it if they find it disgusting. Success usually comes from sensory exposure (tasting) and familiarity (hiding the insect in a cookie or protein bar).
In a drought-prone state like Oregon, how does insect feed help traditional ranchers save water?
If we substitute a portion of livestock feed with insect meal, we reduce the demand for water-intensive crops like alfalfa or corn. This keeps more water in our reservoirs and aquifers for other agricultural needs.
What is the name of the "fiber" found in insect exoskeletons that may promote gut health but also act as a potential allergen?
Chitin.
What percentage of protein is typically found in cricket flour?
Pure cricket powder is usually about 60% to 65% protein by dry weight. For comparison, raw beef is roughly 20-25% protein.
What is "Food Neophobia," and how does it affect your issue?
Food neophobia is the fear or reluctance to try new or unfamiliar foods. In the U.S., insects are viewed as "pests" rather than "protein," making this the #1 psychological barrier to market entry.
In regions like Asia and Africa, where 2.5 billion people already eat insects, the industrialization of the insect market is lifting millions out of poverty- how?
Low Entry Cost (among other factors). Unlike a cattle ranch, a small-scale insect farm requires very little capital to start, allowing rural families to enter the global supply chain.
If they are so efficient, why aren't they cheaper than chicken yet?
It's an economy of scale issue. The poultry industry has had 100 years to perfect its infrastructure, automation, and supply chains. The insect industry is still in its infancy, meaning processing and labor costs remain high for now.
If I wanted to start an insect farm today, does the FDA have a specific 'Insect Rulebook' I have to follow?
No, they are currently treated under general food safety/cGMP standards and labeled as 'food' if intended for consumption