- Home
- Industries
Aerospace And Defence
Agriculture
Automotive And Transportation
Banking And Finance
Business
Chemicals And Materials
Consumer And Retail
Electronics And Semiconductors
Food And Beverages
Machinery & Equipments
Manufacturing And Construction
Medical Devices
Others
Pharmaceuticals And Healthcare
Power And Energy
Sports
Technology
- Services
- News Room
- About us
- Contact Us
-
Insect Protein Market Size, Growth Forecast | CAGR of 28.5%
Global Insect Protein Market Size, Share & Forecast 2025–2034 | Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Meal, Cricket & Mealworm Protein, Sustainable Animal Feed, Pet Nutrition, Functional Human Foods, Circular Bioeconomy, Low-Carbon Protein Sources & Automated Vertical Insect Farming Driving High-Growth Applications Across Aquaculture, Livestock, Pets & Nutritional Supplements Globally
Report Overview
The Insect Protein Market is estimated at USD 365.0 million in 2024 and is on track to reach roughly USD 5,820.0 million by 2034, implying a compound annual growth rate of around 28.5% over 2025–2034. Growing demand for sustainable feed ingredients, advances in black soldier fly (BSF) farming, and rising adoption in premium pet food continue to accelerate market expansion. As global food and feed industries shift toward circular, low-carbon protein sources, insect protein is gaining mainstream relevance across aquaculture, pet nutrition, and functional food applications.
Insect protein, once seen as a niche choice, has moved from small-scale production to large-scale manufacturing. This change is driven by the urgent need for sustainable, effective ingredients that can replace traditional soymeal and fishmeal in animal feed. By 2034, the insect protein market is projected to add over USD 5 billion in new value, showing its emergence as a reliable, scalable protein source.
Three main factors are driving this growth. First, insect meal offers strong performance in aquaculture and pet diets by improving gut health, feed conversion rates, and digestibility. This leads to more frequent use. Second, producers can rear larvae at very high densities using food waste and agricultural leftovers, leading to attractive cost advantages as production increases. Third, many consumers are already familiar with insects, with more than 2 billion people worldwide eating them in some form. This cultural basis makes it easier for products like protein powders, bars, and fortified foods to enter the market.
Manufacturers are quickly improving extraction and processing technologies to increase yields and quality consistency. Automated tray handling systems, AI monitoring, and optimized substrate management are becoming common in new facilities. Typical black soldier fly (BSF) and cricket meal products contain 55 to 65% crude protein by dry weight. Precision drying, which aims for 5 to 8% residual moisture, extends shelf life and stabilizes nutrient profiles, while defatting processes recover 25 to 35% insect oil, producing high-value co-products for pet food, oleochemical blends, and specialty industrial formulations.
The regulatory environment is becoming more favorable. The European Union and North America have broadened approvals for insect meal in aquaculture, poultry, swine, and pet food, greatly expanding commercial opportunities. Standardized labeling and safety guidelines are reducing risks for global brands and prompting strategic partnerships with insect protein manufacturers. As compliance improves, major feed producers and consumer brands are increasingly willing to enter into multi-year supply agreements.
However, challenges remain. Variability in feedstock, allergen management requirements, and biosecurity risks can disrupt production. Energy-intensive drying and processing can hurt profit margins during times of high energy costs. Public acceptance of insect protein for human consumption is still behind that for animal feed, necessitating targeted education, clean labeling, and transparent sourcing. These challenges underscore the need for strong supply chain resilience and quality certification programs to maintain long-term competitiveness.
Investment is focusing on Western Europe and North America, where clear regulations, engineering know-how, and long-term agreements provide favorable conditions for growth. The Asia Pacific region is becoming the fastest-growing area due to its large aquaculture sector and access to low-cost feed materials. Africa is also advancing through circular economy projects that turn municipal and agricultural waste into valuable insect protein. For investors and operators, key success factors include production efficiency per square meter, stable substrate contracts, and meeting HACCP, GMP+, and ISO certification standards. Together, these factors will shape the market's strong growth trajectory through 2034.
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: The global insect protein market reached USD 365.0 million in 2024 and is projected to hit USD 5,820.0 million by 2034, registering a strong CAGR of 28.5%. Growth is driven by rising demand for sustainable protein and increasing applications in feed and food sectors.
- Source Type: Coleoptera (beetles) lead the market due to their high protein yield and adaptability in large-scale processing. Orthoptera species such as crickets and grasshoppers follow closely, favored for human consumption and ease of farming.
- Application: Animal nutrition accounted for the largest revenue share in 2022, driven by demand from aquaculture and poultry feed sectors. Insect-based feed is gaining traction due to superior amino acid profiles and digestibility compared to traditional fishmeal.
- Driver: Regulatory approvals in the EU for insect-based feed in aquaculture and poultry have accelerated market acceptance. The protein conversion efficiency of insects is up to twice that of traditional livestock, making them a cost-effective long-term solution.
- Restraint: High production costs and inconsistent global regulations continue to limit large-scale adoption. Processing costs remain 20–30% higher than soy or fishmeal, impacting competitiveness in price-sensitive markets.
- Opportunity: The food and beverage segment is emerging as a high-growth category, supported by increasing consumer acceptance and protein-rich diet trends. This segment is expected to grow at a CAGR above 35% through 2032.
- Trend: Companies are deploying AI and automation in insect farming to increase output efficiency and reduce labor dependency. For example, Ynsect and Protix have invested in vertical farming systems to streamline production and scale capacity.
- Regional Analysis: Europe leads with over 42% market share, supported by favorable regulations and sustainability goals. The Asia-Pacific region is expanding rapidly, particularly in China and Thailand, due to established insect consumption habits and lower production costs. North America is gaining momentum through startup funding and pilot-scale facilities.
Application Analysis
Animal nutrition remains the largest application segment in the global insect protein market, accounting for over 75% of total revenue in 2022. This dominance is largely driven by the rising demand for sustainable feed ingredients in aquaculture, poultry, and pet food sectors. Insect protein offers high digestibility and a favorable amino acid profile, making it a reliable alternative to traditional protein sources such as fishmeal and soybean meal. Feed producers are incorporating insect protein in powdered and liquid forms to enhance feed efficiency and animal growth performance, particularly in species with high protein demands.
The food and beverage segment is gaining momentum and is projected to be the fastest-growing application through 2030, driven by increasing regulatory approvals and shifting consumer attitudes toward alternative proteins. Countries in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia have begun authorizing specific insect species for human consumption. This is encouraging the development of insect-based products such as protein bars, meat substitutes, and functional health foods. As food security concerns rise globally, edible insects are being positioned as a viable, resource-efficient protein source for human diets.
Distribution Channel Analysis
Offline distribution channels continue to account for the majority of insect protein sales, particularly in emerging markets where online infrastructure is limited. Supermarkets, specialty retailers, and feed supply stores remain critical points of sale due to their ability to offer direct, bulk purchasing to farmers, food manufacturers, and pet food producers. This channel is projected to maintain a higher growth rate in countries with limited digital penetration and strong local demand for feed-grade protein.
The online segment, however, is expanding steadily and is expected to register a CAGR of 6.4% through 2030. Growth in e-commerce is being supported by increasing consumer interest in niche dietary products and expanding direct-to-consumer business models. Startups in Europe and North America are using online platforms to market insect-based snacks, protein powders, and supplements, particularly to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
Regional Analysis
Europe leads the global insect protein market, accounting for approximately 32% of total revenue in 2024. Strong regulatory frameworks, including the EU’s approval of insect-based feed for aquaculture, poultry, and pigs, have accelerated market adoption. Demand is particularly concentrated in Germany, France, and the UK, where sustainability goals and consumer awareness of alternative proteins are high. The region also benefits from a mature insect farming ecosystem and favorable investment conditions for scale-up technologies.
North America is the second-largest market, supported by growing interest in sustainable nutrition and increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of insect protein. The US and Canada are witnessing increased funding for insect farming startups and expanding pilot-scale production facilities. Regulatory clarity remains a challenge but is gradually improving, opening opportunities for food and feed applications.
Asia Pacific, with its long-standing cultural acceptance of edible insects, is poised for rapid growth. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and China are not only large consumers but also major producers of insect-based raw materials. As global players expand their sourcing and processing operations into the region, Asia Pacific is expected to emerge as a key production and export hub in the second half of the decade.
Market Key Segments
By Source
- Coleoptera
- Lepidoptera
- Orthoptera
- Hymenoptera
- Hemiptera
- Other Sources
By Application
- Food & Beverages
- Animal Nutrition
- Pharmaceuticals & Supplements
- Personal Care and Cosmetics
By Distribution Channel
- Online
- Offline
Regions
- North America
- Latin America
- East Asia And Pacific
- Sea And South Asia
- Eastern Europe
- Western Europe
- Middle East & Africa
Driver
Accelerating Global Protein Demand
By 2025, global demand for protein is expected to rise significantly due to population growth, changing diets, and limitations in traditional livestock systems. Insect protein is becoming a sustainable and efficient option, thanks to its better feed conversion ratio, lower land and water use, and high nutritional value. With over 1,900 edible insect species already eaten around the world, commercial insect farming is growing quickly. Black soldier flies, crickets, and mealworms each contain protein levels above 40% and have rich profiles of essential amino acids. These features match closely with the quality standards set by WHO and FAO. Insect protein is now seen as a valuable ingredient for animal feed, aquaculture, pet nutrition, and early-stage human food markets.
Industrial Scale-Up and Market Adoption
The industry’s solid foundations are leading to a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 30% through 2032. Adoption is particularly strong in aquafeed and pet food, where nutritional performance and digestibility encourage repeated use. The move towards circular production, which uses organic waste as feedstock, boosts sustainability and reduces environmental impacts. As awareness increases and major agrifood companies invest in production facilities, insect protein is securing its position within the global protein landscape. This is driving a structural shift toward alternative proteins, with insects being increasingly recognized as a scalable and viable option.
Restraint
Regulatory Barriers Slowing Market Expansion
Despite strong demand, the insect protein industry faces structural challenges due to inconsistent regulations across different global markets. Approval processes for insect-based ingredients vary greatly by region, especially in human food and livestock feed. Fragmented policies make compliance difficult, lengthen market-entry times, and obstruct cross-border trade. These inconsistencies increase operational risks for producers and slow global adoption in high-volume markets. For manufacturers, dealing with various regulatory frameworks remains a major challenge to quick scale-up.
High Production Costs and Allergen Concerns
Production costs also pose a critical limitation. On average, insect protein costs 20-30% more than conventional protein sources like soymeal or fishmeal due to limited automation, high labor needs, and the requirement for special rearing and processing facilities. These cost issues hinder adoption in price-sensitive feed markets. Additionally, allergen risks associated with insect proteins raise safety concerns for some consumers, highlighting the need for better testing, labeling, and clinical validation. Without streamlined regulations, cost reductions, and strong safety standards, the market will continue to struggle with mainstream adoption.
Opportunity
Expanding Applications in Food and Beverage
The greatest growth potential lies in expanding the use of insect protein within the food and beverage industry. By 2025, consumers are expected to be more open to sustainable and nutrient-rich foods, creating a favorable environment for insect-based flours, protein bars, snacks, and supplements. This segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 35% through 2030, driven by increased interest in clean-label, high-protein options. As health-conscious consumers prioritize environmental impact and nutrition, insect-based foods present a strong value proposition. Brands that emphasize transparency, traceability, and sustainability are well-placed to meet this emerging demand.
New Frontiers in Pharma and Personal Care
Beyond food, in-depth research and development are revealing new opportunities in pharmaceuticals and personal care products. Compounds derived from insects, such as peptides, lipids, and chitin derivatives, show bioactive and functional properties that are suitable for advanced formulations. Applications include wound healing, drug delivery, cosmetic emulsifiers, and antimicrobial agents. As regulations become clearer and production capabilities expand, diverse product lines will allow producers to tap into premium markets. Early investors who focus on specialized extraction technologies and quality certifications will gain a significant competitive edge.
Trend
Automation Transforming Production Efficiency
Technological progress is becoming a pivotal trend in insect protein production. Companies like Ÿnsect, Protix, and InnovaFeed are using AI-driven monitoring, automated climate control, robotic handling, and precision bioconversion systems to lower manual labor and enhance yield consistency. Vertical farming units allow for high-density production while reducing environmental impact, and real-time data analytics improve growth cycles and substrate use. These innovations significantly cut production costs and speed up scaling, making insect protein a more appealing alternative to traditional proteins.
Mainstream Integration into Global Food Systems
At the same time, major food manufacturers are now incorporating insect-based ingredients into new products to meet consumer demand for protein diversity. Retail presence is growing as supermarkets and online platforms introduce insect-based snacks, baking mixes, and sports nutrition items. This shift represents a change from niche novelty to widespread acceptance, with the industry expected to witness increased adoption through 2026. As sustainability goals become stricter and global protein shortages become urgent, insect protein is evolving into a key element of long-term food security strategies.
Key Player Analysis
Aspire Food Group: Aspire Food Group is positioned as a global leader in automated insect farming, with a strategic focus on scaling black soldier fly (BSF) production for commercial feed and industrial applications. In 2025, the company operates one of the world’s largest fully automated insect protein facilities in Ontario, Canada, capable of processing over 20,000 metric tons of organic waste annually. Aspire’s proprietary technology stack integrates robotics, machine learning, and environmental controls to optimize BSF larvae yield and reduce operational costs. The company’s vertical integration, from rearing to processing, allows it to maintain consistency, traceability, and cost efficiency. Aspire is targeting high-volume markets in aquaculture and pet food, aligning with North America’s growing demand for sustainable feed alternatives. Strategic partnerships with feed manufacturers and research institutions are driving expansion into Latin America and Asia.
EnviroFlight LLC: EnviroFlight, a subsidiary of Darling Ingredients, operates as a challenger in the insect protein space with a strong North American footprint. The company specializes in BSF-derived protein meal, oil, and frass, targeting the aquaculture, poultry, and companion animal segments. In 2025, EnviroFlight has increased its production capacity through the expansion of its Kentucky-based facility and initiated regulatory approval processes in the EU and Asia. Backed by Darling’s global network, EnviroFlight benefits from established logistics and feed distribution channels. Its key differentiator lies in circular economy integration, using agricultural byproducts as feedstock to reduce input costs. The company is also investing in R&D for lipid extraction and fractionated protein applications, aiming to diversify its product portfolio across premium feed and pet nutrition markets.
Swarm Nutrition GmbH: Swarm Nutrition positions itself as an innovator in the human consumption segment of insect protein. Based in Germany, the company focuses on cricket-based protein powders, bars, and functional snacks. In 2025, Swarm has gained traction among European consumers through direct-to-consumer channels and retail partnerships in Germany, France, and the Netherlands. The brand emphasizes sustainability, traceable sourcing, and clean-label nutrition, aligning with growing consumer demand for climate-conscious food choices. Swarm’s collaboration with academic institutions on consumer behavior and nutrition science supports its market positioning and product development. It is also exploring AI-driven personalization in its e-commerce model to strengthen customer retention and drive recurring revenue in a niche but growing segment.
Next Protein Inc.: Next Protein Inc., headquartered in France, is a fast-growing player focused on BSF-based protein and fertilizer solutions. The company operates as a disruptor in the agriculture input segment, serving both livestock feed producers and organic crop growers. In 2025, Next Protein expanded its processing capacity in Tunisia to meet rising demand from Europe and the Middle East. Its core differentiators include low-cost operations in North Africa and a strong emphasis on circular agriculture, using food waste as a primary input. Strategic funding rounds and partnerships with regional agricultural cooperatives have positioned Next Protein to scale rapidly in price-sensitive markets. The company’s focus on compliance with EU feed regulations and traceability standards strengthens its export potential and competitiveness in regulated markets.
Market Key Players
- Protix
- Swarm Nutrition GmbH
- Aspire Food Group
- Insect Technology Group Holdings Limited
- Next Protein Inc.
- Ynsect NL Nutrition & Health B.V.
- Entomo Farms
- Enviro Flight LLC
- Other Key Players
Recent Developments
Dec 2024 – EnviroFlight LLC: The company announced a USD 32 million expansion of its Kentucky production facility, increasing its insect protein output capacity by 40%. This move enhances supply capabilities for aquaculture and poultry feed clients across North America.
Feb 2025 – Swarm Nutrition GmbH: Swarm launched a new line of cricket-based protein snacks in France and the Netherlands through a retail partnership with Carrefour, targeting mainstream health-conscious consumers. This supports its strategy to scale human consumption of insect protein across Western Europe.
Apr 2025 – Next Protein Inc.: The company secured a USD 18 million funding round led by an EU agricultural innovation fund to expand operations in Tunisia and launch distribution in Southern Europe. The capital injection strengthens its position as a low-cost supplier in price-sensitive markets.
Jul 2025 – Aspire Food Group: Aspire partnered with a leading North American pet food manufacturer to supply BSF protein meal for premium pet food formulations, under a five-year agreement valued at over USD 45 million. This expands Aspire’s footprint in the high-margin pet nutrition segment.
Sep 2025 – Protix BV: Protix opened its second fully automated BSF facility in northern Germany, with an annual processing capacity of 25,000 metric tons of organic waste. The facility is expected to supply feed producers across the EU and reduce reliance on imported fishmeal.
| Report Attribute | Details |
| Market size (2024) | USD 365.0 million |
| Forecast Revenue (2034) | USD 5,820.0 million |
| CAGR (2024-2034) | 28.5% |
| Historical data | 2020-2023 |
| Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2034 |
| Report coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Market Dynamics, Growth Factors, Trends and Recent Developments |
| Segments covered | By Source (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, Hemiptera, Other Sources), By Application (Food & Beverages, Animal Nutrition, Pharmaceuticals & Supplements, Personal Care and Cosmetics), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline) |
| Research Methodology |
|
| Regional scope |
|
| Competitive Landscape | Protix, Swarm Nutrition GmbH, Aspire Food Group, Insect Technology Group Holdings Limited, Next Protein Inc., Ynsect NL Nutrition & Health B.V., Entomo Farms, Enviro Flight LLC, Other Key Players |
| Customization Scope | Customization for segments, region/country-level will be provided. Moreover, additional customization can be done based on the requirements. |
| Pricing and Purchase Options | Avail customized purchase options to meet your exact research needs. We have three licenses to opt for: Single User License, Multi-User License (Up to 5 Users), Corporate Use License (Unlimited User and Printable PDF). |
Select Licence Type
Connect with our sales team
Why Intelevo Research
100%
Customer
Satisfaction
24x7+
Availability - we are always
there when you need us
200+
Fortune 50 Companies trust
Intelevo Research
80%
of our reports are exclusive
and first in the industry
100%
more data
and analysis
1000+
reports published
till date
