Alphitobius diaperinus larvae (lesser mealworm) as human food – An approval of the European Commission – A critical review

Abstract

Due to the increasing threat of climate change and the need for sustainable food sources, human consumption of edible insects or entomophagy has gained considerable attention globally. The larvae of Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), also known as the lesser mealworm, have been identified as a promising candidate for mass-rearing as a food source based the on evaluation on several aspects such as the production process, the microbiological and chemical composition, and the potential allergenicity to humans. As a consequence, the European Commission has recently approved the utilization of lesser mealworms as human foods. Lesser mealworms are considered a good source of protein, with a protein content ranging from 50-65% of their dry weight and containing various essential amino acids. Lesser mealworms are also rich in other essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins B12 and B6. Furthermore, the hydrolysates of lesser mealworms are known to contain antioxidants, suggesting the therapeutic properties of the insects. To enable and ensure a continuous supply of lesser mealworms, various rearing procedures of the insects and information on optimal environmental rearing conditions have been reported. However, like other edible insects, lesser mealworms are still not commonly consumed in Western countries because of various consumer- and product-related factors. Ultimately, the European Commission’s approval of lesser mealworms as a novel food is a key milestone in the development of the insect food industry. Embracing the consumption of edible insects can help address the challenges of feeding a growing population, mitigate the environmental impact of food production, and promote a more sustainable and resilient food system for the future.

Insect Protein as a Component of Meat Analogue Burger

“…These minerals are crucial for various physiological functions, making this insect a nutritionally dense food source. The high iron content, in particular, is beneficial for addressing iron deficiency, while the presence of other minerals supports overall metabolic health [ 36 , 42 , 43 , 44 ]. Moreover, A. diaperinus exhibits an accelerated developmental cycle and enhanced reproductive capacity, leading to decreased production costs per unit mass.…”

“…This suggests that people sensitive to house dust mites and crustaceans may experience cross-reactivity with these insect allergens. Additionally, it has been found that individuals allergic to prawns are at a higher risk of developing food allergies to mealworms and other insects [ 37 , 43 ]. Studies have shown that the microbiome associated with A. diaperinus can vary significantly depending on environmental conditions and storage methods [ 46 ].…”