(04 May 2021) – Member States today approved a European Commission’s proposal to allow the use of dried yellow mealworms as a novel food.
Following a scientific assessment by EFSA, this is the first ever EU marketing authorisation for insects as novel foods.
The novel food can be used as a whole dried insect snack or as an ingredient in a number of food products, for example as a powder in protein products, biscuits or pasta products.
The Farm to Table strategy identifies insects as an alternative protein source that can support the EU’s transition to a more sustainable food system. Millions of people already consume insects every day.
In addition, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) describes insects as a healthy and highly nutritious food source high in fat, protein, vitamins, fibre and minerals.