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14 Jan 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
Environment & EcologySocial IssuesNEWS

Edible Insects: Overcoming Discomfort and Redefining 'Normal' Food

Urbanization distances people from insect-based foods despite nutritional and environmental benefits.

Edible Insects: Overcoming Discomfort and Redefining 'Normal' Food

Photo by Ramona Edwards

An edible insects stall at a food mela in Bengaluru revealed that despite their nutritional and environmental benefits, people are increasingly moving away from insect-based foods. Entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, is often imagined as something that happens elsewhere, outside India, yet insects have been consumed across several Indian States for generations. Many insect species are rich in protein, vitamins and micronutrients, with a much higher proportion of their body mass being edible, around 80%, compared to about 55% for poultry. Urbanisation has created both physical and cultural distance from such practices, and many younger generations are often unaware that insects are eaten across several parts of India. Making insect-based foods more acceptable involves addressing both form and familiarity, as much as nutrition.

Key Facts

1.

Entomophagy: Eating insects

2.

Edible portion of insects: 80%

3.

Edible portion of poultry: 55%

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Food Security

2.

GS Paper II: Social Justice (Nutrition)

3.

Potential questions on sustainable agriculture and alternative food sources

Visual Insights

More Information

Background

Entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, has deep historical roots across various cultures. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have consumed insects for millennia, with some of the earliest records dating back to prehistoric times. In ancient civilizations, insects were often a readily available and nutritious food source, particularly in regions where other protein sources were scarce.

Traditional practices involving insect consumption are documented in ancient texts and artwork from cultures in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Over time, however, the perception of insects as food has shifted in many Western societies, leading to a decline in entomophagy due to cultural biases and food preferences. The historical context reveals that the rejection of insects as food is a relatively recent phenomenon in human history.

Latest Developments

Recent years have witnessed a renewed interest in entomophagy, driven by concerns about food security, environmental sustainability, and nutritional needs. Several startups and food companies are now focusing on developing insect-based products, such as protein bars, snacks, and flours. Research is also underway to explore the potential of insects as a sustainable feed source for livestock and aquaculture.

Regulatory frameworks are gradually being developed in various countries to ensure the safety and quality of insect-based foods. The European Union, for example, has approved several insect species for human consumption. Future trends suggest that insect farming could become a significant part of the agricultural sector, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system.

Public acceptance remains a key challenge, but innovative marketing and educational campaigns are helping to overcome consumer resistance.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding entomophagy: 1. Entomophagy is a novel practice with no historical precedence. 2. Insects generally have a lower feed conversion ratio compared to traditional livestock. 3. Regulatory frameworks for insect-based foods are well-established globally. Which of the statements given above is/are NOT correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: C

Statement 1 is incorrect because entomophagy has a long history in many cultures. Statement 3 is incorrect because regulatory frameworks are still developing. Statement 2 is correct; insects generally have a better feed conversion ratio.

2. Which of the following statements best describes the current trend regarding the consumption of edible insects in India?

  • A.Urbanization is increasing the consumption of insects due to their availability in urban markets.
  • B.Traditional practices of entomophagy are declining due to urbanization and cultural shifts.
  • C.Government policies are heavily promoting insect consumption nationwide.
  • D.Insect-based foods are now a staple in most Indian diets.
Show Answer

Answer: B

The news article suggests that urbanization is creating distance from traditional practices of eating insects, leading to a decline in entomophagy.

3. Assertion (A): Insects are increasingly being considered as a sustainable food source. Reason (R): Insects have a high feed conversion ratio and require less land and water compared to traditional livestock. In the context of the above statements, which of the following is correct?

  • A.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
  • B.Both A and R are true, but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.
  • C.A is true, but R is false.
  • D.A is false, but R is true.
Show Answer

Answer: A

Both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why insects are considered a sustainable food source.

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