Insects as Alternative Sources of Protein for Food and Feed

With significant concerns about the environmental impact of conventional crop and livestock production, there is a growing interest in utilising novel alternative sources of protein in both human and animal diets. Insects have long been consumed by an array of species, such as birds, fish and mammals, including humans.

Insects as alternative sources of protein for food and feed provides a comprehensive overview of the recent research undertaken in this rapidly-expanding area. The book reviews the production and application of black soldier flies, yellow mealworms and other insects as alternative protein sources in poultry, pig and fish feed, as well as their nutritional benefits and challenges that can arise as a result of their use.

Through its considered approach, the book explores how the safety of insect-derived protein can be ensured across the supply chain, as well as how we can optimise its use as a sustainable feed and food source which contributes to a more resilient food system.

Adriana Casillas is co-founder and CEO of Tebrio. Tebrio is Spain’s first, award-winning, large-scale manufacturer of insect protein for food, feed, pet food and other applications. Collaborators with Tebrio include the Universities of Almería, Burgos and Granada. Adriana was also Vice-President of the International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed (IPIFF) from 2016-2021 and is currently President of IPIFF.

Dr Jos Houdijk is a Professor at the Monogastric Science Research Centre at Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC), UK. He is a nutritionist and his key research interests focuses on the nutritional sensitivity of animal production, health, disease and the environmental footprint of livestock. Professor Houdijk is involved in numerous projects and has contributed over 100 publications to livestock science.