Insect Protein Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Cricket Protein, Mealworm Protein and Black Soldier Fly Protein), By Application (Food & Beverage, Animal Feed, Cosmetics, Agriculture and Pharmaceuticals), and Regional Forecast to 2034

INSECT PROTEIN MARKET OVERVIEW

The global insect protein market size was USD 0.19 billion in 2025 and is projected to touch USD 0.80 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.77% during the forecast period.

The edible insect protein market is experiencing high growth, driven by the surge in demand for environmentally and health-friendly protein alternatives. Insects including crickets, black soldier flies, grasshoppers and mealworms are meanwhile more and more commonly ground into protein powders, flours and oils for human food and drinks, animal feed, aquaculture and pet food. Insects demand less land, water and feed for livestock, and are a high value source of protein, amino acids and micronutrients. This efficiency has made insects protein an attractive option for potential solutions to global food security and lowering the carbon impact of protein production. A growing consumer awareness regarding health benefits offered by insect protein, and its use in fortified snacks, bakery, and sports nutrition are expected to further fuel market growth.

Geographically the market is growing with North America, Europe and Asia-Pacific leading due to robust initiatives from government as well as private sector for promoting protein derived from insects. 'Europeans eating insects' In Europe, regulatory approvals, like the EFSA green light for mealworms and crickets as novel foods are contributing to greater consumer acceptance. In North America, start-ups and established companies are turning to insect-based protein bars and powders for fitness buffs, while in Asia-Pacific the priority is big insect farms for animal food and aquaculture. Although cultural reluctance in some parts of the world will hinder the acceptance of eating insects, investment in R&D and process technology will spur a boom in the insect protein markets in the next decade.

GLOBAL CRISES IMPACTING INSECT PROTEIN MARKETCOVID-19 IMPACT

Insect Protein Industry Had a Negative Effect Due to supply chain disruption during COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The effect of COVID-19 on the insect protein sector was a mix of good and bad. Crippled by the disruption of international supply chains, tightened border trades and even farming practices being less active, the production and trading of insect-based protein products have been disrupted. Challenges such as operational bottlenecks, absence of capital, manpower scarcity and logistics paucity rendered small scale insect farmers uncompetitive. In the meantime, consumers, for a while at least, turned out attention to the basics, and this translated into reduced demand for new and alternative proteins in some areas of the world. On the other hand, the pandemic also underscored the importance of food security and of sustainable protein supply, which were positive for long term market potential. Because of the increasing debate over the environmental footprint of conventional animal agriculture, insect protein as an alternative resource-friendly sustainable solution has gained attention. Heightened health consciousness also stoked demand for high-protein and immunity-enhancing products, underpinning interest in cricket flour, insect protein powders and fortified snacks. That crisis turbocharged the digital sales channels, allowing companies to go direct-to-health-conscious, environmentally aware customers. In the end, demand was sped up by COVID-19, though a few markets paused for COVID-19.

LATEST TRENDS

Expansion of Insect Protein in Human Nutrition and Pet Food to Drive Market Growth

One of the major drivers for the growth of insect protein market is growing usage of insect proteins in human and pet-food. The market, which has traditionally catered to the animal feed and aquaculture industries, is quickly expanding with the popular consumer items like cricket or mealworm flour-based protein bars, cookies, pasta and shakes. Insect-based ingredients are increasingly accepted by consumers, as many are aware of their high protein levels, essential amino acids and micronutrients such as iron and vitamin B12. At the same time, the high-end pet food market is gradually accepting insect protein due to it being sustainable, hypoallergenic and of high value relative to other meat proteins. Several companies are starting to offer dog and cat foods made with the same black soldier fly larvae and crickets, and aimed at environmentally minded pet owners. At the same time, the regulator aided support (EFSA approved, R&D enhanced investment), is helping develop confidence and is fuelling advancement. This concurrent acceptance both in human and pet food and beverage is one of the key trends fuelling the expansion of the market for insect protein globally.

INSECT PROTEIN MARKET SEGMENTATION

BY TYPE

Based on type, the global market can be categorized into cricket protein, mealworm protein and black soldier fly protein

• Cricket Protein: With high digestibility and essential amino acids, cricket powder for use in food and beverage applications, including protein bars, flour and nutritional shakes, is increasing in popularity. As a sustainable alternative to whey or soy protein, it's taking over the fitness world and resonating among the environmentally aware. Increasing acceptance of cricket-based products in Europe and North America is also contributing to the adoption of such products.
• Mealworm Protein: Mealworm protein’s high protein and essential fatty acids are favored for human nutrition, animal feed, and cosmetics. Its use in novel food compositions has been strengthened in Europe with recent regulatory approvals. As a plaid to wear, it tastes on earth relatively mild and can be added into powders and snacks and so on, which makes it more attractive to the mass public.
• Black Soldier Fly Protein: Black solider fly (BSF) protein is best known in the market for aquaculture and animal feed applications because of its high nutrient value plus the cost advantage of manufacturing it. It is additionally under investigation for pet food and fertilizers with its environmentally friendly farming process. It is with high scalability and low resource that BSF protein becomes a potential leading force in insect protein market.

BY APPLICATION

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into food & beverage, animal feed, cosmetics, agriculture and pharmaceuticals

• Food & Beverage: Insect protein is becoming more and more widely added to protein bars, pasta, pastries, and drinks among those with healthy or eco lifestyles. Its nutritional qualities, such as essential amino acids and micronutrients, make it an attractive substitute for conventional protein sources. Its uptake into common diets is being propelled by increasing consumer acceptance and regulatory approvals.

• Animal Feed: The insect protein is increasingly employed in poultry, aquaculture and livestock feeding as a sustainable and high-quality alternative protein. Its potential to improve nutrient utilization and growth performance, and its fishmeal and soybean meal sparing effects, also make it highly promising. Market trends and industry analysis sustainable production practices, amid the quest for sustainable production practices, this segment is poised for robust growth.
• Cosmetics: Proteins extracted from mealworm and BSF are being used in cosmetic and personal care applications for their antioxidant and moisturizing properties. Insect protein extracts are being considered by cosmetic corporations to use as components instead of synthetic ones. Growing consumer preference for natural and eco-friendly products is propelling shoulder bags sales in the segment.
• Agriculture: Insect based protein products as organic fertilizers and soil enhancers provide a sustainable alleviation to the farmer. And as they are highly nutritious, they will also boost soil quality, and decrease the reliance on chemical fertilizers. This trend is most pronounced in areas with significant organic farming developments.
• Pharmaceuticals: Insect proteins and derivatives are under research for use in supplements, nutraceuticals, and therapeutic applications. Their bioactive compounds show promise in boosting immunity and supporting gut health. Continued R&D is expected to unlock new opportunities in the pharmaceutical segment.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.

DRIVING FACTORS

Rising Demand for Sustainable Protein Sources to Boost the Market

Growing global demand for sustainable and eco-friendly protein options is one of the major factors for driving the insect protein market growth. Conventional animal farming consumes massive land, water and feed and is a major greenhouse gas emitter. Meanwhile, insects such as crickets, black soldier flies and mealworms can be farmed using minimal resources and produce much fewer emissions. With the increasing focus on the environment, governments, business and consumers are all moving away from protein sources that are incompatible with both climate and sustainable food systems. Insect protein is especially appealing because it offers a nutritional profile similar to traditional animal protein, but with significantly fewer resources. The aquaculture industry and animal-feed companies like Cargill, which also makes feed for fish farms are quickly embracing insect protein as a new way to reduce dependence on fish meal and soy as well as their major environmental footprints. And since insects’ zero-waste farm practices can use even by-products as fertilizer, there isn’t any waste disposal concern to consider regarding a circular economy solution. The combination of sustainability and efficiency drives a robust market growth around the world!

Growing Adoption in Human Nutrition and Pet Food to Expand the Market

Rising use of insect protein in human nutrition and pet food is also predicted to stimulate the market. Health nuts and eco-friendly millennials are flocking to insect-based protein powders, energy bars, and baked goods if insect eating becomes trendy, those on the go will come with an option to add healthy, sustainable bug protein to your meal on demand. Healthy snacking has also seen rapid expansion in mainstream food and beverage categories with an increasing number of product launches since regulatory approvals, especially in Europe and North America. At the same time, premium pet food is becoming a growth pathway. Insect protein is hypoallergenic, nutritious Insects are a natural source of protein and our gut flora is able to process and absorb the nutrients they offer, the company states on its website. Black soldier fly larvae and cricket protein are gaining traction in dog and cat food, partly as a result of favourable consumer perception and increasing distribution via online outlets. This two-prong expansion into human and pet nutrition not only widens the consumer reach for this tech, but provides insect protein with a more rugged long-term growth path as well.

RESTRAINING FACTOR

Cultural Acceptance and Consumer Perception to Potentially Impede Market Growth

The cultural acceptance of insect-derived foods and the perception of consumers is a key challenge for the growth of the insect protein market. In many parts, notably in North America and in some parts of Europe, people still have a psychological barrier and traditional eating habits that disallow eating insects. As evident, although the nutritional profile of insects is favourable, most Western consumers correlate insects to pests or unhygienic environments, which may diminish the likelihood of acceptance of insect-based foods. This perception is a major problem for businesses striving to popularize insect protein in food and drinks. And in places where insect protein is palatable in animal feed and pet food, moving it to human diets has been a tough sell. Marketing investments, education programs, and attractive product formulations are needed to help to address these barriers, although it is slow progress. Regulatory obstacles in certain nations slow the pace of mass adoption and, subsequently, inhibit innovation and product introductions. As appealing as sustainability and health advantages are to eco-conscious consumers, broad adoption remains limited. Without education and exposure, cultural aversion is likely to be a formidable obstacle for the development of the insect protein market.

OPPORTUNITY

Expansion into Mainstream Food & Beverage To Create Opportunity for the Product in the Market

One of the biggest potential markets for insect protein has long been seen as mainstream food and drink applications. Insect protein has of course already found some success as feed for animals and pets, but the value pet and pest feed market rank only a fraction of what mainstream human food companies pay: The use of insects as an ingredient in human food, e.g., in protein bars, bakery products, pasta and smoothies is huge. Growing inclination of consumers towards high-protein, nutrient-rich and eco-friendly diets is setting a robust base for further adoption. Especially health-conscious millennials and Gen Z aren't opposed to trying novel protein sources, as long as they're offered in a format, they're familiar with and is convenient. Moreover, regulatory approvals are pushing for commercial-scale releases of insect-based foods, notably in the Europe and North America. Product innovation and critical thinking are required when it comes to hiding the taste and texture barriers, as one must modify the original recipes to accommodate for the ingression of the insect protein, whether it’s whole, powdered or blended. Increasing demand for functional and sports nutrition also opens up this opportunity, with insect protein offering a complete amino acid profile and a good source of vitamins and minerals. With some marketing and education to strategically place it into the food and beverage mainstream, I think insect protein in the food and beverage category is poised for some serious long-term growth.

CHALLENGE

Scaling Production and Achieving Cost Competitiveness Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Insect protein market growth is challenged by the ability to scale production and remain cost competitive. While insect farming represents resource-efficient production relative to traditional livestock, systems for large-scale commercial production are dependent on dedicated infrastructure, controlled environments, and specialized processing equipment. These are driving up costs of operations contributing to high costs of insect protein products compared to soy or fishmeal. As such, cost is a limitation in investment of more widespread applications in human nutrition and animal feed. Safety, quality and regulatory compliance is no less of a headache when it comes to scaling operations. Most insect protein businesses are start-ups, lacking investment in the automation and processing equipment required for mass production. Supply chain bottlenecks, such as availability of approved feedstock for insect farming, also constrain scaling up. Until the latter scales up to economically efficient size and technology, then insect protein is not going to be able to compete with established protein systems. Solving these cost and scale challenges is key to unlocking the full growth potential of the market.

INSECT PROTEIN MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

• NORTH AMERICA

The United States insect protein market is growing steadily, supported by rising consumer awareness of sustainable food sources and an increasing demand for alternative proteins. Fitness enthusiasts, millennials, and eco-conscious consumers are driving adoption of cricket flour, protein powders, and snack bars as high-protein, environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional animal proteins. In the U.S., the premium pet food sector is also a major growth driver, with insect-based formulations gaining popularity for their hypoallergenic and nutrient-rich profiles. Additionally, support from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and ongoing investment in insect farming startups are helping the market expand. However, cultural hesitancy around insect consumption continues to pose challenges, requiring strong branding and education campaigns. Overall, technological innovation and growing acceptance in niche food and pet nutrition segments are laying a strong foundation for long-term growth of the insect protein market in the United States.

• EUROPE

Europe holds a significant insect protein market share, driven by favorable regulations, sustainability initiatives, and growing consumer acceptance of novel foods. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved several insect species, including mealworms and crickets, for human consumption, providing a major boost to product launches. Countries such as France, Germany, and the Netherlands are leading in both insect farming and product innovation. Insect protein is increasingly used in snacks, pasta, bakery products, and meat alternatives, appealing to health-conscious and eco-aware consumers. Moreover, Europe’s strong emphasis on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting circular economy practices aligns well with insect protein production, which requires fewer resources and generates less waste. The region also has robust R&D investments and collaborations between startups, food companies, and policymakers. These factors make Europe one of the fastest-growing and most mature markets for insect protein, with strong prospects in both food and feed sectors.

• ASIA

Asia is emerging as a key growth region in the insect protein market, supported by a longstanding tradition of entomophagy in several countries and rising demand for sustainable protein solutions. Nations like China, Thailand, and South Korea are leading in insect farming for both human consumption and large-scale animal feed. Black soldier fly protein, in particular, is gaining traction in aquaculture and livestock feed due to its high nutrient profile and low production costs. Meanwhile, urban middle-class consumers in countries such as India and China are showing growing interest in insect-based snacks and health supplements, influenced by global wellness and sustainability trends. Governments and private companies are also investing in scaling insect farming infrastructure to meet growing demand. While cultural acceptance is relatively higher in Asia compared to Western regions, standardization and regulatory frameworks are still evolving. Overall, Asia’s expanding population and rising incomes make it a vital market for insect protein growth.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market Through Innovation and Market Expansion

Key industry players in the insect protein market are actively focusing on scaling production, expanding applications, and driving consumer acceptance. Many companies are investing in advanced farming technologies such as automated vertical insect farms to increase output and improve cost efficiency. To expand market reach, manufacturers are diversifying their product portfolios into sectors like food & beverage, animal feed, aquaculture, pet nutrition, and even cosmetics. Strategic collaborations with food manufacturers, research institutions, and regulatory bodies are helping accelerate product approvals and build consumer trust. Marketing efforts are increasingly centered on highlighting the nutritional value, sustainability, and environmental benefits of insect protein to overcome cultural resistance. At the same time, players are leveraging e-commerce and health-focused retail channels to connect directly with eco-conscious consumers. Additionally, significant R&D spending is being directed toward developing palatable formulations that mask taste and texture barriers, making insect protein more appealing for mainstream diets. These combined efforts are positioning the industry for long-term growth despite cultural and regulatory challenges.

LIST OF TOP INSECT PROTEIN COMPANIES

• Ynsect N.V. (Netherlands)
• Darling International Inc. (Enviroflight) (U.S.)
• Aspire Food Group (U.S.)
• Protix (Netherlands)
• Protenga (Germany)
• Global Bugs (U.S.)
• Agronutris (U.S.)
• Entomo Farms (Canada)
• Insectifii (U.S.)
• Flylab (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT

March 2024: Ynsect N.V. (Netherlands) announced the expansion of its vertical insect farm facilities in France, aiming to become the world’s largest insect protein production site. The project focuses on scaling mealworm farming to supply sustainable protein for food, aquaculture, and pet nutrition. This development not only strengthens Ynsect’s production capacity but also highlights the industry’s shift toward large-scale, automated farming solutions to meet rising global demand for alternative proteins.

REPORT COVERAGE

The report delivers a comprehensive analysis of the global insect protein market, offering actionable intelligence across key dimensions. It includes detailed segmentation by product type—cricket protein, mealworm protein, black soldier fly protein—and by application—such as food & beverage, animal feed, cosmetics, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The study presents historical data and forecasts for market size, revenue, volume, and CAGR across major regions including North America, Europe, and Asia.

Key drivers, restraining factors, opportunities, and challenges are examined in depth, supported by qualitative and quantitative insights. The report also includes regulatory landscape analysis, sustainability trends, cost structures, supply chain dynamics, and consumer acceptance barriers. Company profiles feature notable industry players, highlighting strategic developments, capacity expansions (e.g., Ynsect’s mealworm facility), partnerships, product innovations, and market positioning. Additionally, the impact of macroeconomic trends such as environmental concerns, pandemics, and food security initiatives is evaluated. This coverage equips stakeholders—including manufacturers, investors, food and feed companies, and policymakers—to understand market dynamics, plan investments, and capitalize on evolving industry opportunities.