Insect Protein Market Research Report By Application (Animal Feed, Food Products, Nutraceuticals, Bioplastics), By Insect Type (Crickets, Mealworms, Black Soldier Fly, Grasshoppers, Ants), By End Use (Livestock, Aquaculture, Pet Food, Human Consumption), By Form (Whole Insects, Insect Powder, Insect Oil, Insect Protein Bars) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2035

Insect Protein Market Summary

As per MRFR Analysis, the Global Insect Protein Market is projected to grow significantly, driven by rising demand for sustainable protein sources. The market size was estimated at 1.31 USD Billion in 2023 and is expected to reach 1.53 USD Billion in 2024, with a remarkable growth trajectory anticipated through 2035.

Key Market Trends & Highlights

Key trends driving the growth of the Global Insect Protein Market include sustainability, regulatory support, and increased consumer awareness.

• The market is expected to grow to 8.5 USD Billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 16.89% from 2025 to 2035.
• Animal Feed application is projected to dominate the market, valued at 0.76 USD Billion in 2024.
• North America is expected to reach 2.2 USD Billion by 2035, driven by consumer interest in sustainable protein sources.
• Investment in R&D is increasing, with the European Union allocating substantial funds for insect protein projects.

Market Size & Forecast

2023 Market Size: USD 1.31 Billion

2024 Market Size: USD 1.53 Billion

2035 Market Size: USD 8.5 Billion

CAGR (2025-2035): 16.89%

Largest Regional Market Share in 2024: North America.

Major Players

Key companies include Beta Hatch, AgriProtein, Tiny Farms, Maggot Farm, Enterra Feed, Tarantula Foods, Insect Protein Technologies, Exo Protein, Hälsosamma, EnviroFlight, Cricket One, Protix, and Aspire Food Group.

Key Insect Protein Market Trends Highlighted

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key market drivers. A growing emphasis on sustainable food sources, coupled with the rising global population, has fostered interest in alternative protein sources. Insect protein is recognized for its high nutritional value, including essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers.

Additionally, the environmental benefits of insect farming, such as lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduced land and water use compared to traditional livestock, have gained attention from both consumers and policymakers alike.

There are chances to be found in this market to make new insect-based food products that can meet different dietary needs, like vegan or gluten-free options. Partnerships with food companies to add insect protein to popular products are also a great way to grow.

Recently, there has been a trend toward more government support for insect protein as a way to solve problems with food security and sustainability. The industry is becoming more legitimate as more countries create rules for farming and processing insects.

More and more people see insects as an important part of changing the world's food system, and research into their benefits keeps leading to new uses. As more people learn about and accept it, the market is ready to take advantage of this momentum and establish itself as a reliable source of protein around the world.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Insect Protein Market Drivers

Growing Demand for Sustainable Protein Sources

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing substantial growth driven by an increasing demand for sustainable protein sources. The global population is projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050, leading to a significant rise in protein consumption.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), traditional livestock farming faces limitations in resources such as land and water, making insect farming a viable alternative. Insects require substantially less land, water, and feed compared to conventional livestock, posing an important solution to food security challenges.

For instance, crickets require only 12 times less feed than cattle to produce the same amount of protein, while generating considerably lower greenhouse gas emissions.

This shift towards sustainability is supported by various initiatives from organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the FAO, promoting insect protein as a central component in future food systems.

These insights reflect a growing recognition of insect protein's environmental benefits, solidifying its role within the Insect Protein Market.

Rising Awareness of Health Benefits

The Insect Protein Market is also propelled by the increasing awareness among consumers regarding the health benefits associated with insect protein. Insects are rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, vitamins, and minerals, which cater to health-conscious consumers.

For instance, a study published by the Journal of Insects as Food and Feed suggests that, on average, insects contain about 60-80% protein by dry weight, significantly higher than conventional meat sources.

This growing awareness is evidenced by increased product launches and marketing efforts focusing on the nutritional advantages of insect-based foods, particularly in regions like Europe and North America, where consumers are opting for healthier dietary options.

Public health organizations, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are acknowledging the significance of diversifying protein sources, further supporting this trend in the Insect Protein Market.

Government Support and Regulation

Government support and favorable regulations are emerging as key drivers for the Insect Protein Market. Countries like Belgium and the Netherlands have implemented positive regulatory frameworks aimed at promoting insect farming and consumption.

The European Union has also set policies encouraging sustainable food production practices, aligning with environmental goals. With funding from government bodies to support Research and Development (R&D) in the agribusiness sector, insect farming has gained traction.

For example, the European Commission launched the Horizon 2020 program, which allocates significant funds to innovations in sustainable food production, including insect protein.

Such initiatives offer a conducive environment for businesses in the Insect Protein Market, encouraging investment and growth in insect-based products.

Insect Protein Market Segment Insights

Insect Protein Market Application Insights

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing robust growth within its Application segment, highlighted by a projected valuation of USD 1.53 billion in 2024, escalating to USD 8.5 billion by 2035.

This segment encompasses various applications where insect protein is proving to be an innovative and sustainable resource, primarily including Animal Feed, Food Products, Nutraceuticals, and Bioplastics.

Among these, Animal Feed is emerging as a dominant player, valued at USD 0.65 Billion in 2024 and expected to grow significantly to USD 3.5 billion by 2035, reflecting the industry's shift towards sustainable farming practices and the increasing demand for protein sources that are less resource-intensive than traditional feed options.

The incorporation of insect protein into feed is a critical development for livestock and aquaculture sectors, where it contributes to healthier animal growth and lower ecological footprints.

Food Products, with a valuation of USD 0.45 billion in 2024, benefit from rising consumer trends towards alternative protein sources, fostering the acceptance of insect-based foods as nutritious and sustainable choices.

The Nutraceuticals segment, which starts at USD 0.25 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1.7 billion by 2035, plays a vital role in health supplements and functional foods, capitalizing on the nutritional benefits that insect protein offers, including high protein content, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Lastly, the Bioplastics segment, valued at USD 0.18 billion in 2024, is an emerging field within the insect protein market, aligning well with the growing demand for environmentally friendly materials as the global community pushes for reduced plastic waste.

The combined efforts across these applications reflect a market well-positioned for expansion, driven by increasing awareness of sustainability, nutritional needs, and innovation in food technology.

The Insect Protein Market revenue across these segments illustrates a significant paradigm shift toward sustainable practices and alternative protein sources, instigating an evolving landscape in the food and agriculture industries.

The transition is supported by government initiatives and policies promoting sustainable agriculture, further encouraging investment and development within the Insect Protein Market.

Overall, the potential for extensive growth across these application categories signifies a unique opportunity for stakeholders to capitalize on this evolving sector within the agricultural and food production spaces.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Insect Protein Market Insect Type Insights

The Insect Protein Market has seen notable segmentation by Insect Type, which plays a critical role in shaping market dynamics. In 2024, the market is set to be valued at 1.53 billion USD, with projections indicating significant growth by 2035.

Notably, crickets and mealworms have gained traction due to their high protein content and effectiveness in sustainable animal feed, acting as a major contributor to market growth.

Other insect types, like Black Soldier Fly, are becoming increasingly important due to their rapid reproduction rates and ability to convert organic waste into protein, offering a solution for environmental challenges.

Grasshoppers and ants also find their niches, often celebrated for their unique flavors and nutritional benefits. Together, these insect types represent a diverse and strategic opportunity within the Insect Protein Market, reflecting a growing trend towards alternative protein sources driven by environmental sustainability and food security.

The potential of these insects to provide essential nutrients while minimizing the ecological footprint underscores their significance in the Insect Protein Market landscape.

Insect Protein Market End Use Insights

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing substantial growth, particularly across various end-use applications including Livestock, Aquaculture, Pet Food, and Human Consumption. In 2024, the overall market is expected to be valued at 1.53 billion USD, reflecting the rising demand for sustainable protein sources globally.

Livestock and Aquaculture are key drivers in the adoption of insect protein, as they present efficient alternatives to traditional feed sources, contributing to lower carbon footprints and enhanced food security.

Pet Food is also a significant area of growth, with increasing consumer preferences for natural and protein-rich ingredients.

Meanwhile, Human Consumption is gaining traction, as more individuals explore insects as a high-nutritional value food option, aligning with trends towards healthier and sustainable diets.

The shift towards insect protein in these end-use sectors is complemented by regulatory support encouraging its use, along with a growing awareness of the environmental impact of conventional farming practices.

Overall, the Insect Protein Market segmentation illustrates a robust landscape where diverse applications underscore the importance of this innovative protein source in addressing global food challenges.

Insect Protein Market Form Insights

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing notable growth with a projected value of 1.53 billion USD by 2024, expanding significantly as consumer demand for sustainable protein solutions increases.

In this market, the Form segment encompasses various offerings such as Whole Insects, Insect Powder, Insect Oil, and Insect Protein Bars, catering to diverse consumer preferences and applications.

Whole insects are utilized for direct consumption and pet food, while insect powder is increasingly popular as a protein supplement in food products and snacks.

Insect oil presents opportunities for culinary applications and health products, enhancing product formulations. Insect Protein Bars are gaining traction among health-conscious consumers, providing a convenient protein source that aligns with the growing trend of high-protein diets.

The Insect Protein Market data indicates that these forms are critical in responding to the need for alternative protein sources that are environmentally friendly, as insects require significantly less land and water than traditional livestock.

Additionally, the rising awareness of sustainability and nutrition drives market growth in this segment, creating vast opportunities for innovation and product development across the industry.

With a robust industry structure, the market is expected to offer increased variety and expanded access to insect-based products globally.

Insect Protein Market Regional Insights

The Insect Protein Market revenue is poised for considerable growth across various regions from 2024 to 2035. In 2024, North America is valued at 0.31 USD billion, with an increase to 1.5 USD billion in 2035, reflecting its growing acceptance and application of insect protein in food and animal feed.

Europe follows closely, starting at 0.5 USD Billion in 2024 and projected to grow to 2.6 USD Billion, showcasing strong momentum driven by ecological sustainability trends and regulatory support.

Asia Pacific is a significant contender with a valuation of 0.45 USD billion in 2024 and is expected to reach 2.7 USD billion, driven by increasing population growth and rising protein demand.

South America, while smaller at 0.15 USD billion in 2024, is anticipated to grow to 0.8 USD Billion, indicating potential due to agricultural advancements. The Middle East and Africa begin at 0.12 USD billion in 2024, expanding to 0.5 USD billion by 2035, signaling emerging interest in alternative protein sources to address food security issues.

These regional dynamics show distinct growth drivers, with North America and Europe leading, while Asia Pacific is highlighted as a market with rapid growth potential due to its vast consumer base and interest in sustainable food sources, further emphasizing the importance of regional strategies in harnessing the advantages of the Insect Protein Market.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

Insect Protein Market Key Players and Competitive Insights

The Insect Protein Market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing demand for sustainable protein sources to address food security and environmental concerns.

This market has seen a surge in competition as various players enter the space, each bringing innovative solutions and products to cater to the shifting consumer preferences toward alternative protein sources.

The competitive landscape is characterized by advancements in insect farming technologies, production efficiency, and the development of various insect-based protein products aimed at the food and animal feed industries.

Collaborations, partnerships, and strategic alliances are common as companies seek to enhance their market presence and product offerings while complying with regulatory standards and addressing consumer perceptions about insect-derived foods.

Aspire Food Group has carved a notable niche within the Insect Protein Market, positioning itself as a leader by focusing on sustainable practices and innovation.

The company is recognized for its strategic approach to the commercialization of edible insect protein, employing advanced technologies to optimize production processes and enhance the nutritional value of its products.

Aspire Food Group’s strengths lie in its ability to develop a range of insect-based food items and protein ingredients, catering to both human consumption and animal feed markets.

The company has established partnerships with various stakeholders, which support its market expansion efforts and elevate its brand visibility within the global landscape of insect protein.

Hargol FoodTech also plays a significant role in the Insect Protein Market, emphasizing the mass production of crickets, which are known for their high protein content and nutritional benefits.

The company has developed a range of products, including whole roasted crickets and cricket powder, aimed at food manufacturers and consumers seeking innovative protein alternatives. Hargol FoodTech's strengths include its proprietary farming technologies that enable efficient insect cultivation while minimizing environmental impacts.

Moreover, the company has focused on expanding its global reach through strategic partnerships and collaborations, allowing it to tap into various markets.

Hargol FoodTech has also pursued mergers and acquisitions to broaden its product portfolio and strengthen its competitive edge in the burgeoning insect protein sector, positioning itself effectively in the eyes of global consumers and businesses alike.

Key Companies in the Insect Protein Market Include

• Aspire Food Group


• Hargol FoodTech


• EntoGreen


• Beta Hatch


• Bugsolutely


• EnviroFlight


• Ynsect


• Micronutris


• Protix


• AgriProtein


• Next Protein


• Green Protein

 

Insect Protein Market Developments

Companies like Aspire Food Group and Hargol FoodTech are working harder to scale up insect farming practices as the Insect Protein Market has recently shifted its focus to sustainable food sources. In September 2023, Beta Hatch said it would expand its facility to make more mealworms for food and feed uses.

This showed that more people are interested in buying them. EntoGreen is still expanding its line of black soldier fly products to meet the market's need for other protein sources.

To meet the growing global need for sustainable animal feed and nutrient solutions, companies like Ynsect and Protix, which are leaders in mealworm and black soldier fly protein, are expanding their operations.

The market is growing quickly, and projections show that the value will rise even more as more people and businesses look for protein sources that are good for the environment.

This goes along with the fact that important companies like AgriProtein and EnviroFlight are putting more money into research and development.

Both of these companies use insect technology to help with food security and waste management. In early 2022, Bugsolutely got funding to grow its business, which shows that the sector is doing well and investors are confident in it.

Insect Protein Market Segmentation Insights

• 
  Insect Protein Market Application Outlook
  
  
  
  • Animal Feed
  
  
  • Food Products
  
  
  • Nutraceuticals
  
  
  • Bioplastics
  
  
  
  

• 
  Insect Protein Market Insect Type Outlook
  
  
  
  • Crickets
  
  
  • Mealworms
  
  
  • Black Soldier Fly
  
  
  • Grasshoppers
  
  
  • Ants
  
  
  
  

• 
  Insect Protein Market End Use Outlook
  
  
  
  • Livestock
  
  
  • Aquaculture
  
  
  • Pet Food
  
  
  • Human Consumption
  
  
  
  

• 
  Insect Protein Market Form Outlook
  
  
  
  • Whole Insects
  
  
  • Insect Powder
  
  
  • Insect Oil
  
  
  • Insect Protein Bars
  
  
  
  

• 
  Insect Protein Market Regional Outlook
  
  
  
  • North America
  
  
  • Europe
  
  
  • South America
  
  
  • Asia Pacific
  
  
  • Middle East and Africa
  
  
  
  

Report Attribute/Metric	Details
Market Size 2023	1.31 (USD Billion)
Market Size 2024	1.53 (USD Billion)
Market Size 2035	8.5 (USD Billion)
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)	16.87% (2025 - 2035)
Report Coverage	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Base Year	2024
Market Forecast Period	2025 - 2035
Historical Data	2019 - 2024
Market Forecast Units	USD Billion
Key Companies Profiled	Aspire Food Group, Hargol FoodTech, EntoGreen, Beta Hatch, Bugsolutely, EnviroFlight, Ynsect, Micronutris, Protix, AgriProtein, Next Protein, Green Protein
Segments Covered	Application, Insect Type, End Use, Form, Regional
Key Market Opportunities	Sustainable protein alternatives, Growing demand for animal feed, Increasing interest in plant-based diets, Innovations in insect farming technology, Government support for alternative proteins
Key Market Dynamics	Sustainability concerns, rising protein demand, regulatory challenges, technological advancements, and consumer acceptance
Countries Covered	North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA