Nutritional quality assessment of insect species authorized as novel foods on the European market

Food insects are gaining increasing attention as a potential resource-saving and climate-friendly protein-rich alternative to traditional animal products in Western countries. In recent years, four insect species, Tenebrio molitor, Locusta migratoria, Acheta domesticus and Alphitobius diaperinus, have been approved as novel foods for human consumption on the European market. However, there is a lack of detailed analyses of their nutritional composition.In this regard, we purchased a total of 34 samples declared and sold as food insects on the EU online market in order to analyze their nutritional value. Overall, insects exhibited 470 – 509 kcal/100 g, 53 – 62 % of protein, 24 – 33 % of total fats, 5.6 – 8.7 % fibers and low amounts of carbohydrates (< 4 %). Despite an overall good protein quality, sulfur-containing amino acids were limited across species (< 1 g/100 g). Food insects contain considerable amounts of essential ω6-fatty acids, vitamin B1, pro-vitamin D, selenium, iron, manganese and zinc. However, some species displayed concerning amounts of the toxic elements, aluminum, cadmium and lead.Our analytic data supports the suitability of insects as protein-rich meat alternatives with desirable macro- and micronutrient profiles, yet proposes reconsideration of concurrent food safety regulations.