Global Insect Protein Market Overview
Insect Protein Market Size was estimated at 1.31 (USD Billion) in 2023. The Insect Protein Industry is expected to grow from 1.53(USD Billion) in 2024 to 8.5 (USD Billion) by 2035. The Insect Protein Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 16.89% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Key Insect Protein Market Trends Highlighted
A few major market factors are propelling the notable expansion of the global insect protein market. As worries about food security and sustainability grow, several nations are searching for other sources of protein. Policymakers and consumers alike are taking notice of insect protein because of its minimal environmental effect when compared to traditional cattle. The acceptability of insects as a feasible food source is also being aided by changing consumer tastes toward plant-based and alternative protein sources. This area has a number of prospects that need to be investigated. It is anticipated that the need for protein will increase as the world's population grows. Integrated with current agricultural methods, insect farming offers a supplementary protein supply that may be grown in a variety of environments, including cities. It may also be possible to work with food producers and eateries to develop novel items that use insect protein, thus broadening its commercial appeal. Trends in recent years demonstrate that people are becoming more aware of the nutritional advantages of insect protein, which highlights its high protein content and important amino acids. A number of North American and European nations are examining their legal frameworks to allow insects to be consumed by humans, demonstrating a forward-thinking stance on alternative proteins.
Furthermore, educational campaigns are being undertaken to educate consumers about the safety and benefits of insect protein, helping to overcome any existing cultural barriers. As these trends continue to unfold, the Global Insect Protein Market is poised for sustained growth, with advancements in technology and production methods enhancing the scalability and accessibility of insect-based products.
Insect Protein Market Drivers
Rising Demand for Sustainable Protein Sources
The Global Insect Protein Market Industry is witnessing substantial growth due to an escalating demand for sustainable protein sources. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global population is projected to reach approximately 9.7 billion by 2050, leading to a predicted 70 percent increase in food requirements. Insects are touted as a highly sustainable protein source, requiring significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock.For instance, crickets require only 1.7 kilograms of feed to produce 1 kilogram of meat, while cattle require approximately 8 to 10 kilograms. Furthermore, organizations like the United Nations have recognized insects as a viable solution for enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. As awareness around sustainability grows among consumers globally, the demand for insect protein is anticipated to rise, driving the Global Insect Protein Market Industry significantly.
Increased Investment in Research and Development
Investment in Research and Development (R) within the Global Insect Protein Market Industry is on the rise. Governments around the world are funding various programs aimed at developing insect farming technologies and research into the nutritional benefits of insect protein. For example, the European Union has allocated substantial funds to projects exploring the use of insect protein in animal feed and human food products. Additionally, major corporations involved in food production are collaborating with research institutions to innovate and enhance the efficiency of insect production.Such efforts are expected to bolster the availability and acceptance of insect protein as a mainstream food source, fueling market growth further.
Regulatory Support and Policy Changes
Supportive regulations and policy changes across various regions are providing a favorable environment for the Global Insect Protein Market Industry. Governments are recognizing the potential of insects as a protein source and are creating regulations that facilitate insect farming and sales. In places like the European Union and North America, there is a growing body of regulations that encourage the use of insects in food and feed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published guidelines that expedite the approval process for insect-based food products, promoting market growth.This regulatory support assures consumers about the safety and quality of insect protein, further encouraging its integration into diets.
Insect Protein Market Segment Insights
Insect Protein Market Application Insight
The Global Insect Protein Market, focused on the Application segment, presents a significant opportunity for growth and diversification across various industries. By 2024, the market is expected to generate a revenue of 1.53 USD Billion, with substantial contributions from different applications. Notably, the Animal Feed application dominates this segment, valued at 0.76 USD Billion in 2024. This portion of the market is crucial due to the growing demand for sustainable and protein-rich alternatives in livestock feed, as farmers seek cost-effective solutions to enhance animal nutrition while being environmentally responsible.
The Food Products segment also holds a vital position, expected to be valued at 0.45 USD Billion in 2024, reflecting a growing trend among consumers towards incorporating protein from insects into their diets as a sustainable food source. This increasing acceptance of insect-based food products allows for diversification in meal options while addressing nutritional gaps, thereby supporting food security initiatives globally. Nutraceuticals, valued at 0.20 USD Billion in 2024, is another important area, as the market sees a rising trend in consumers seeking functional foods that promote health and wellness.
Insect proteins are recognized for their high nutritional content, making them a desirable ingredient in dietary supplements and health-oriented products. Bioplastics, while relatively smaller at 0.12 USD Billion in 2024, represents an emerging opportunity within the Global Insect Protein Market. This application reflects the ongoing effort towards sustainable materials that reduce plastic waste, tapping into a conscious consumer base looking for eco-friendly alternatives. The segmentation of the Global Insect Protein Market illustrates not only the dominant role of Animal Feed but also emphasizes the potential growth in Food Products, Nutraceuticals, and Bioplastics.With an overall projected revenue increase to 8.5 USD Billion by 2035 across these applications, the market is poised for significant expansion fueled by consumer demand for sustainability, health benefits, and innovation in food and product offerings. The anticipated market growth is supported by increasing awareness of the environmental advantages of utilizing insect protein over traditional protein sources, highlighting a shift towards more sustainable agricultural practices globally.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Insect Protein Market Insect Type Insights
The Global Insect Protein Market segmentation by Insect Type showcases a diverse range of protein sources, comprising species such as Crickets, Mealworms, Black Soldier Fly, Grasshoppers, and Ants, each of which holds unique nutritional benefits and sustainability advantages. As the Global Insect Protein Market revenue is poised to reach a significant value of 1.53 billion USD in 2024 and grow robustly thereafter, these insect types are increasingly recognized for their role in food security and environmental sustainability. Crickets, for example, are known for their high protein content and are frequently utilized in various food products, making them a preferred choice among consumers.
Mealworms are gaining traction due to their efficient feed conversion and ability to thrive in a wide range of environments. Meanwhile, Black Soldier Fly larvae are particularly significant in waste management and animal feed applications, reflecting a growing trend towards upcycling organic waste. Grasshoppers are often celebrated for their culinary versatility, while Ants provide unique flavor profiles and nutritional properties. Collectively, these insect types illustrate the potential of the Global Insect Protein Market industry to address global challenges, including the need for sustainable protein sources, while catering to evolving consumer preferences.The market growth in this segment is backed by increasing governmental support for alternative proteins and raising awareness of the environmental benefits associated with insect farming.
Insect Protein Market End Use Insights
The Global Insect Protein Market is experiencing substantial growth driven by diverse end-use applications. By 2024, the market valued at 1.53 billion USD, with significant contributions from livestock, aquaculture, pet food, and human consumption sectors. Livestock feed utilizes insect protein due to its high nutritional value and sustainability, promoting efficient food production. In aquaculture, the integration of insect protein enhances fish health and boosts growth rates, addressing rising seafood demands globally. The pet food market is increasingly incorporating insect protein, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers seeking sustainable options for their animals.
Human consumption is a growing category, driven by the trend of protein alternatives as consumers seek nutritious and eco-friendly food sources. The overall Global Insect Protein Market segmentation points towards a continuous expansion from 2025 to 2035, bolstered by increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and food security challenges, which create vast opportunities for innovations in protein sourcing. The remarkable advantages of insect proteins as an alternative source underscore their importance across these key applications, solidifying their role in meeting global food demands while minimizing environmental impact.
Insect Protein Market Form Insights
The Global Insect Protein Market, particularly in the Form segment, is experiencing substantial growth, with avalued 1.53 USD billion by 2024. The demand for sustainable protein sources drives this surge as global consumers increasingly recognize the environmental benefits of insect protein. Within the Form segment, various options such as Whole Insects, Insect Powder, Insect Oil, and Insect Protein Bars play a pivotal role in market diversification. Whole Insects have gained popularity in culinary circles, offering unique textures and flavors, while Insect Powder serves as a versatile ingredient that can be incorporated into numerous food products, enhancing their protein content.
Insect Oil is emerging as an ingredient with potential health benefits and applications in food production, while Insect Protein Bars cater to the growing health-conscious market, providing convenient and nutritious snack options. The overall Global Insect Protein Market segmentation reflects a shift towards innovative protein sources that align with sustainability goals, indicating a promising future driven by the health and environmental consciousness of consumers worldwide.
Insect Protein Market Regional Insights
The Global Insect Protein Market is poised for considerable growth across various regional segments, as evidenced by the valued 1.53 USD Billion in 2024, escalating to 8.5 USD Billion by 2035. Notably, North America emerges as a significant player, with a market value of 0.4 USD Billion in 2024 and anticipated growth to 2.2 USD Billion by 2035, largely driven by rising consumer interest in sustainable protein sources. Europe follows closely, valued at 0.45 USD Billion in 2024 and expected to reach 2.5 USD Billion by 2035, where regulatory support for insect farming is promoting innovation and adoption.
The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region holds potential, with a starting point of 0.3 USD Billion in 2024, reaching 2.0 USD Billion by 2035, highlighting the swift rise in food security initiatives and growing population demands. South America and the Middle East Africa (MEA) show more moderate growth trajectories, valued at 0.2 USD Billion and 0.18 USD Billion in 2024, respectively, with a focus on utilizing insect protein as a sustainable feed alternative. The significance of these regional markets is underscored by their respective growth projections, showcasing a shift towards insect protein as an innovative solution for nutrition and food production globally.
Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Insect Protein Market Key Players and Competitive Insights
The Global Insect Protein Market has been gaining traction in recent years as a response to the growing demand for sustainable protein sources. With the rising global population and the increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability, various players within this market are innovating to provide insect-based protein solutions that align with consumer preferences. The competitive landscape is characterized by a diverse range of companies that focus on different applications of insect protein, including food and feed, and they often leverage unique production technologies and supply chain strategies to differentiate themselves. As traditional protein sources face increasing scrutiny over their environmental footprint, the insect protein sector is positioned to benefit significantly through the adoption of novel approaches and partnerships that enhance their market presence.
Beta Hatch stands out uniquely within the Global Insect Protein Market due to its innovative approaches to raising insects for protein production. The company emphasizes utilizing its proprietary technologies to rear insects efficiently, which helps reduce waste and limit the environmental impact compared to conventional protein sources. With an emphasis on sustainability, Beta Hatch operates with a clear mission to promote alternative proteins that meet the demands of both human nutrition and animal feed. The company has successfully created a competitive edge through its focus on high-quality insect protein products and partnerships that enable it to expand its market reach. Their strengths lie in their ability to scale operations while maintaining a commitment to innovative production techniques, enhancing their positioning in a rapidly evolving market.
AgriProtein has also carved a niche for itself within the Global Insect Protein Market, with a focus on providing high-quality insect meal products derived from the black soldier fly. The company specializes in converting organic waste into sustainable protein, addressing both environmental concerns and food security challenges. Its strength lies in its established relationships across multiple sectors, including animal feed manufacturing, aquaculture, and pet food industries. Notably, AgriProtein is known for its innovative approach to biological waste management, which underpins its production processes. The company has made significant strides through various mergers and acquisitions that have bolstered its technology and market capabilities on a global scale, reflecting its ambition to become a leader in the insect protein space. Key products include insect meal and oils, which cater to the growing demand for sustainable feed ingredients, affirming AgriProtein's robust presence in the competitive landscape of the insect protein market.
Key Companies in the Insect Protein Market Include
- Beta Hatch
- AgriProtein
- Tiny Farms
- Maggot Farm
- Enterra Feed
- Tarantula Foods
- Insect Protein Technologies
- Exo Protein
- Hälsosamma
- EnviroFlight
- Cricket One
- Protix
- Aspire Food Group
Insect Protein Market Industry Developments
The Global Insect Protein Market has witnessed significant developments recently, with companies such as Beta Hatch, AgriProtein, and Aspire Food Group expanding their operations and partnerships to leverage the growing demand for sustainable protein sources. Notably, in September 2023, Enterra Feed announced a strategic partnership to enhance its production capabilities, while Maggot Farm is focusing on scaling its insect-based feed solutions to meet rising industry needs. In terms of mergers and acquisitions, Protix acquired a minority stake in a startup aimed at advancing insect farming technologies, a move that reflects growing investment interest in the sector as of August 2023. The market valuation of companies in this space has increased markedly, driven by heightened awareness of environmental sustainability and food security, further promoting the insect protein industry. Major happenings over the last two to three years include the rise of Cricket One's product line, which has garnered attention globally, and EnviroFlight's expansion into new international markets, signaling a robust trend towards diversification in insect-based protein offerings. Overall, these developments are indicative of a dynamic shift as global attention pivots towards sustainable food sources.
Insect Protein Market Segmentation Insights
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Insect Protein Market Application Outlook
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Animal Feed
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Food Products
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Nutraceuticals
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Bioplastics
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Insect Protein Market Insect Type Outlook
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Crickets
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Mealworms
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Black Soldier Fly
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Grasshoppers
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Ants
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Insect Protein Market End Use Outlook
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Livestock
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Aquaculture
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Pet Food
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Human Consumption
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Insect Protein Market Form Outlook
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Whole Insects
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Insect Powder
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Insect Oil
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Insect Protein Bars
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Insect Protein Market Regional Outlook
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North America
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Europe
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South America
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Asia Pacific
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Middle East and Africa
Report Scope:
| Report Attribute/Metric Source: |
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) |
16.89% (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 |
Beta Hatch, AgriProtein, Tiny Farms, Maggot Farm, Enterra Feed, Tarantula Foods, Insect Protein Technologies, Exo Protein, Hälsosamma, EnviroFlight, Cricket One, Protix, Aspire Food Group |
| SEGMENTS COVERED |
Application, Insect Type, End Use, Form, Regional |
| KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES |
Sustainable protein alternatives, Animal feed expansion, Nutritional supplements growth, Food security solutions, Eco-friendly farming practices |
| KEY MARKET DYNAMICS |
sustainability and environmental benefits, rising protein demand, regulatory challenges and standards, consumer acceptance and awareness, technological advancements in production |
| COUNTRIES COVERED |
North America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA |
Insect Protein Market Highlights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
The Global Insect Protein Market is projected to be valued at 1.53 billion USD in 2024.
The market is expected to reach a value of 8.5 billion USD by 2035.
The CAGR for the Global Insect Protein Market is expected to be 16.89% from 2025 to 2035.
The Animal Feed segment is expected to dominate with a value of 4.2 billion USD in 2035.
The Food Products application segment is valued at 0.45 billion USD in 2024.
North America is projected to have the largest market share with a value of 2.2 billion USD in 2035.
The market value for the Europe region is projected to be 0.45 billion USD in 2024.
The APAC region is expected to reach a market value of 2.0 billion USD by 2035.
Key players include Beta Hatch, AgriProtein, Tiny Farms, and Enterra Feed, among others.
The Bioplastics application is projected to reach a market size of 0.6 billion USD by 2035.
