Introduction
The Europe Edible Insects Market represents a fast-emerging segment of the alternative protein industry. Edible insects, including crickets, grasshoppers, mealworms, and black soldier flies, are being incorporated into food, feed, and nutritional products due to their high protein content, low environmental footprint, and versatility in applications.
Insects are rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them suitable as a sustainable protein alternative. The European Union has recognized the potential of insect-based products, approving several species for human consumption under the Novel Food Regulation.
As of 2024, the Europe edible insects market is valued at USD 250 million, with rapid adoption in food ingredients, animal feed, and functional nutrition. Increasing consumer interest in sustainable diets, coupled with EU regulatory support, highlights the importance of this market for the region’s future food security and sustainability goals.
Learn how the Europe Edible Insects Market is evolving—insights, trends, and opportunities await. Download report: https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/europe-edible-insects-market
The Evolution
The concept of insect consumption, while traditional in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, only recently gained traction in Europe. For decades, edible insects were overlooked due to cultural perceptions.
Key milestones in Europe’s edible insects industry include:
2013: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report on edible insects highlighted their potential as a global protein source.
2018: Implementation of the EU Novel Food Regulation created a legal pathway for insect-based products.
2021: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved dried yellow mealworms as the first insect species for human consumption in the EU.
2022–2024: Expansion of approvals for house crickets, migratory locusts, and lesser mealworms opened new opportunities for market players.
Shifts in consumer demand, combined with technological innovations in insect farming, have transformed the market from niche experimentation to a scalable industry.
Market Trends
Rising demand for sustainable protein sources as consumers shift toward environmentally friendly diets.
Growing incorporation of insect protein in sports nutrition, protein bars, powders, and snacks.
Increasing use of insect meal in aquaculture and poultry feed, reducing reliance on soy and fishmeal.
Adoption of automation and vertical farming technologies in insect rearing facilities to improve efficiency.
Expanding collaborations between insect protein startups and multinational food and feed companies.
Greater consumer awareness due to EU-backed education campaigns promoting sustainable diets.
Focus on waste-to-protein models, where insects are reared on agricultural by-products, enhancing circular economy initiatives.
Challenges
Despite strong potential, the Europe edible insects market faces challenges:
Consumer acceptance remains limited due to cultural hesitation and negative perceptions of insect consumption.
Regulatory complexity, as approvals vary by country within the EU, slows commercialization.
Scaling production requires significant investment in technology and infrastructure.
Cost competitiveness remains a barrier as insect protein is still more expensive than conventional protein sources.
Risks of allergen cross-reactivity, particularly with crustaceans, present labeling and safety concerns.
Supply chain limitations restrict the availability of high-quality insect-based products across the region.
Market Scope
Segmentation by Type
Crickets: Widely used in snacks, powders, and protein bars.
Mealworms: Approved for human consumption, popular in both food and feed applications.
Grasshoppers and Locusts: Consumed in dried and roasted forms, primarily for niche markets.
Black Soldier Fly (BSF): Primarily used in animal feed and aquaculture.
Segmentation by Application
Food Products: Snacks, baked goods, protein powders, bars, and supplements.
Animal Feed: Aquaculture, poultry, and pet food.
Nutraceuticals: Functional foods and dietary supplements.
Industrial Uses: Cosmetics, fertilizers, and bio-based materials.
Regional Analysis
Western Europe: France, Germany, and the Netherlands lead due to advanced insect farming startups and supportive regulations.
Southern Europe: Spain and Italy are showing strong growth in insect-based food adoption.
Northern Europe: Scandinavian countries demonstrate higher consumer acceptance of alternative proteins.
Eastern Europe: Emerging markets with potential for insect feed adoption in livestock sectors.
End-User Industries
Food and beverages.
Animal feed and aquaculture.
Nutraceuticals and functional food.
Cosmetics and personal care.
Agricultural fertilizers and bio-products.
Market Size and Factors Driving Growth
Data Bridge Market Research analyses that the Europe edible insects market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 23.7% during the forecast period of 2023 to 2030.
Growth Drivers
Sustainability goals: Insects require less water, land, and feed compared to livestock.
Regulatory support: EU approvals under Novel Food Regulation have accelerated product launches.
Health and nutrition trends: Consumers are seeking protein-rich, low-fat, and nutrient-dense foods.
Animal feed demand: Rising aquaculture production increases demand for alternative protein feed.
Startup ecosystem: European insect farming companies like Ÿnsect, Protix, and Innovafeed are scaling production and securing global partnerships.
Consumer awareness campaigns promoting edible insects as a solution to climate change.
Opportunities in Emerging Segments
Expansion into mainstream retail, with insect-based snacks and powders in supermarkets.
Development of hybrid products, where insect protein is blended with plant proteins.
Growth of pet food applications, driven by consumer interest in sustainable nutrition for animals.
Potential in cosmetics and skincare, where insect-derived ingredients are being tested.
Conclusion
The Europe edible insects market is on a strong growth trajectory, fueled by sustainability imperatives, technological advancements, and regulatory approvals. By 2035, the market is expected to grow sixfold, establishing itself as a vital component of Europe’s alternative protein industry.
The long-term success of the market will depend on increasing consumer acceptance, scaling production, and developing cost-competitive products. Stakeholders focusing on innovation, transparency, and education will be well-positioned to capture growth opportunities in this evolving industry.
FAQ
Q1: What is the current size of the Europe edible insects market?
The market is valued at USD 250 million in 2024.
Q2: What is the forecasted market size by 2035?
It is expected to reach USD 1.5 billion, growing at a CAGR of 17.8%.
Q3: Which insect types are most popular in Europe?
Crickets and mealworms dominate food applications, while black soldier flies are widely used in animal feed.
Q4: What are the main challenges in the market?
Consumer acceptance, regulatory complexity, and cost competitiveness remain key challenges.
Q5: Which regions in Europe are leading the edible insects market?
Western Europe, particularly France, Germany, and the Netherlands, is leading adoption and innovation.
Q6: What drives the growth of the edible insects market in Europe?
Sustainability goals, EU approvals, and increasing demand for protein-rich diets are the primary drivers.
Q7: Which industries use edible insects in Europe?
Food and beverages, animal feed, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and bio-based materials.
Browse More Reports:
Global Artificial Food Flavours Market
Global Asparagus Extract Market
Global Aspheric Lenses Market
Global Astrocytoma Market
Global Ataxia Market
Global Audio Communication Monitoring Market
Global Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality Market
Global Autoimmune Lymphoproliferative Syndrome (ALPS) Market
Global Automatic Coffee Machines Market
Global Automatic Content Recognition Market
Global Automotive Air Purifier/Ionizer Market
Global Automotive Aluminum Market
Global Automotive Display Market
Global Automotive Display Unit Market
Global Automotive Fuel Cell Market
About Data Bridge Market Research:
An absolute way to forecast what the future holds is to comprehend the trend today!
Data Bridge Market Research set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric market research and consulting firm with an unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to the complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process. Data Bridge is an aftermath of sheer wisdom and experience which was formulated and framed in the year 2015 in Pune.
Contact Us:
Data Bridge Market Research
US: +1 614 591 3140
UK: +44 845 154 9652
APAC : +653 1251 975
Email:- corporatesales@databridgemarketresearch.com
