Black soldier fly larvae and cricket fortified crackers are a safe, nutritious, and acceptable snack for school children in Madagascar

Edible insects are a nutrient-dense and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional animal-sourced protein. Wild-harvested insects have contributed to diets throughout history, but questions remain regarding the desirability of insect-fortified foods produced by expanding insect farming. We evaluated the safety, nutrition, and acceptability of three locally sourced and produced insect-fortified snacks among primary schoolchildren in Madagascar. Laboratory analyses confirmed the crackers containing crickets and/or black soldier fly larvae were safe for children ages 9 to 13 across all microbiological parameters and heavy metal contaminants, and nutritious, providing significant protein (12.2-14.2 g/100 g), iron (6.6-8.6 mg/100 g), and zinc (3.0-3.4 mg/100 g). Child acceptance (N = 187) was high, with approximately 80% consuming at least 80% of their portions, and 89% selecting insect-fortified crackers over the control when given a choice. Savory recipes were preferred over sweet. In focus groups, caregivers (N = 60) reported positive perceptions of the snacks, with anecdotal improvements in child satiety, energy, and sleep.