1
|
Castro-Alija MJ, Zolfaghari G, Fernandez CG, Álvarez C, Ramón-Carreira LC, Jiménez JM, Albertos I. Elderly Resistance vs. Youthful Acceptance: A Study on Insect Consumption across Age Groups. Foods 2024; 13:2641. [PMID: 39200567 PMCID: PMC11353862 DOI: 10.3390/foods13162641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Insects have recently received much attention as sustainable protein sources due to their nutritional value and eco-friendliness. Unlike conventional livestock, insects require minimal resources and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, insects offer high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and various vitamins and minerals. This study in Spain, specifically in Castilla y León, investigated insect consumption acceptance across age groups, particularly among older individuals, shedding light on factors influencing adoption. The findings inform strategies to address global protein deficiencies and advocate sustainable food practices, with implications for broader European research amidst challenges like water scarcity. Methods: A survey-based research approach collected data on attitudes, preferences, and motivations regarding insect consumption. Statistical analyses were conducted to identify demographic trends and significant associations. Results: Elderly participants expressed reluctance towards insect consumption but showed openness in survival scenarios. Younger individuals exhibited greater willingness to try insects, influenced by factors such as education and previous experiences. Conclusion: Understanding demographic variations in attitudes towards entomophagy is vital for fostering its acceptance. This study demonstrated that older individuals exhibit greater resistance to incorporating insects into their diets compared with younger individuals. Recommended strategies include incorporating insects discreetly into familiar foods and highlighting their nutritional advantages. Collaboration between researchers and stakeholders is essential for harnessing the potential of insects as a sustainable protein source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María José Castro-Alija
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Intervention in Health Care and Sustainable Lifestyles, Recognized Research Group, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain; (M.J.C.-A.); (G.Z.); (L.C.R.-C.); (J.M.J.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Ghazal Zolfaghari
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Intervention in Health Care and Sustainable Lifestyles, Recognized Research Group, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain; (M.J.C.-A.); (G.Z.); (L.C.R.-C.); (J.M.J.)
| | | | - Carlos Álvarez
- Teagasc-Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, D15 DY05 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Luis Carlos Ramón-Carreira
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Intervention in Health Care and Sustainable Lifestyles, Recognized Research Group, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain; (M.J.C.-A.); (G.Z.); (L.C.R.-C.); (J.M.J.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - José María Jiménez
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Intervention in Health Care and Sustainable Lifestyles, Recognized Research Group, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain; (M.J.C.-A.); (G.Z.); (L.C.R.-C.); (J.M.J.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Irene Albertos
- Multidisciplinary Assessment and Intervention in Health Care and Sustainable Lifestyles, Recognized Research Group, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain; (M.J.C.-A.); (G.Z.); (L.C.R.-C.); (J.M.J.)
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Platta A, Mikulec A, Radzymińska M, Kowalski S, Skotnicka M. Willingness to Consume and Purchase Food with Edible Insects among Generation Z in Poland. Foods 2024; 13:2202. [PMID: 39063286 PMCID: PMC11275278 DOI: 10.3390/foods13142202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The consumption of insects (entomophagy) is attracting attention for economic, environmental and health reasons. The wide range of edible insect species, rich in protein, fat, minerals, vitamins and fibre, can play an important role in addressing global food insecurity. However, consumer acceptance remains a major barrier to the adoption of insects as a food source in many countries, including Europe. The aim of this study was to determine whether health and environmental concerns, attitudes and intentions towards purchasing edible insects and foods containing edible insects are associated with willingness to consume edible insects and foods containing edible insects among young consumers (Generation Z) in Poland. An empirical study was carried out in 2023, using a questionnaire with an indirect interview method via an online platform. On the basis of surveys conducted among Generation Z in Poland, it can be concluded that health and environmental concerns determine the willingness to consume selected products containing edible insects. At the same time, it should be noted that the more positive the respondents' attitudes towards health and environmental concerns are, the greater their willingness to consume foods containing edible insects is. Attitudes and intentions towards purchasing foods containing edible insects were positively correlated with willingness to purchase and consume this type of food. The results obtained can contribute to efforts to promote the legitimacy of the production of new foods with edible insects in their composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Platta
- Faculty of Management and Quality Science, Gdynia Maritime University, 81-87 Morska Street, 81-225 Gdynia, Poland;
| | - Anna Mikulec
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Applied Science in Nowy Sącz, 1a Zamenhofa Street, 33-300 Nowy Sącz, Poland;
| | - Monika Radzymińska
- Faculty of Economic Sciences, Institute of Management Science and Quality, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 4 Oczapowskiego St., 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Stanisław Kowalski
- Department of Carbohydrate Technology and Cereal Processing, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 122 Balicka Street, 30-149 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Skotnicka
- Department of Commodity Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Günden C, Atakan P, Yercan M, Mattas K, Knez M. Consumer Response to Novel Foods: A Review of Behavioral Barriers and Drivers. Foods 2024; 13:2051. [PMID: 38998556 PMCID: PMC11241638 DOI: 10.3390/foods13132051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a pressing need for a transition toward more sustainable diets, which has become a shared priority for both consumers and businesses. Innovation is becoming increasingly widespread across all facets of the food supply chain. This innovation spans various domains related to production, including sustainable cultivation methods as well as new food technologies like gene editing, new product development like functional foods, and revitalizing underutilized and genetically diverse varieties to preserve biodiversity. However, not all innovative efforts are accepted by consumers and survive in markets. The interwoven and long agri-food supply chains often obscure the feedback loop between production and consumption. Consequently, it is important to understand to what extent consumers embrace these food innovations and form new eating habits. This review aims to investigate the consumer response to novel foods, focusing on behavioral factors, which have yet to receive as much attention as sensory factors. Peer-reviewed empirical articles from the last decade are examined inductively to develop a bird's-eye view of the behavioral barriers to and drivers of consumer acceptance of novel foods. In addition, strategies to overcome the identified challenges associated with the behavioral barriers are reviewed and examined. Based on this, the study links cognitive biases with behavioral factors influencing consumer acceptance of novel foods. This study concludes that the inconvenience associated with abandoning established eating habits is typically perceived as a loss, and avoiding this inconvenience is deemed more worth the risk than the potential gains associated with novel food consumption. This study suggests that framing and placing pro-diversity labels could serve as effective behavioral interventions for marketing strategists and food policymakers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cihat Günden
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ege University, 35040 İzmir, Turkey
| | - Pelin Atakan
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Yaşar University, 35100 İzmir, Turkey
| | - Murat Yercan
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ege University, 35040 İzmir, Turkey
| | - Konstadinos Mattas
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Marija Knez
- Capacity Development Network in Nutrition in Central and Eastern Europe (CAPNUTRA), 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Centre of Research Excellence in Nutrition and Metabolism, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rehman N, Edkins V, Ogrinc N. Is Sustainable Consumption a Sufficient Motivator for Consumers to Adopt Meat Alternatives? A Consumer Perspective on Plant-Based, Cell-Culture-Derived, and Insect-Based Alternatives. Foods 2024; 13:1627. [PMID: 38890856 PMCID: PMC11171576 DOI: 10.3390/foods13111627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates consumer preference and acceptance of three meat alternatives-plant-based, lab-grown, and insect-based-as sustainable choices to meet the demands of a growing population and evolving food systems. Insights were gathered from European consumers regarding their perceptions and consumption patterns using a mixed-methods approach. The approach employed a questionnaire followed by focus group discussions conducted in Slovenia and the UK to understand the motivations and barriers behind their responses. The UK and Slovenia were chosen as they provided the highest response rates to the questionnaire and they have differing legislation. The results show that plant-based alternatives are the most familiar and accepted option, while lab-grown meat and insect-based products are less familiar and have lower acceptance rates. Moreover, they show that although sustainability factors are important to consumers, they are not their only concern; health and nutrition are the primary motivators for choosing meat alternatives. These are followed closely by sensory appeal, pricing, and a preference for natural, minimally processed options. Based on insights from the focus groups, strategies to overcome the barriers to the acceptance of meat alternatives should include targeted product categorisation and placement, educational campaigns, effective use of media, and greater transparency in product information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayyer Rehman
- WRG Europe Ltd., 26-28 Southernhay East, Exeter EX1 1NS, UK
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Nives Ogrinc
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Monaco A, Kotz J, Al Masri M, Allmeta A, Purnhagen KP, König LM. Consumers' perception of novel foods and the impact of heuristics and biases: A systematic review. Appetite 2024; 196:107285. [PMID: 38423301 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2024.107285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
According to the definition adopted in the European Union, novel foods are foods that were not consumed to a significant degree within the Union before May 15, 1997. This includes cultivated meat and insects. Novel foods are meant to play a critical role in the transition towards sustainable food systems. However, their success depends on whether and to what extent they will be incorporated into the diets at the population level. This review investigates consumers' perception of novel food products by narratively synthesising results on the influence of heuristics and biases triggered by emotions, personality traits, and socio-cultural factors. Empirical studies conducted in Western countries and published in English after 1997 were eligible, which led to 182 studies being included. Notably, most included studies focused on insects and cultivated meat. Disgust and fear are shown to be the main emotions driving rejection of novel foods, together with food neophobia and specific cultural norms common across countries included in the scope of the review. Familiarity with novel foods and curiosity both led to higher acceptance. Despite being investigated directly in a minority of studies, heuristics and related biases mostly fell under the "affect," the "natural-is-better," and the "trust" heuristics. The review also discusses to what extent consumers' perception reflects in the regulatory framework applicable to novel foods in the European Union, how it influences the regulation of insects and cultivated meat and which lessons can be drawn for the future of the regulatory framework.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Monaco
- Chair of Food Law, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany.
| | - Johannes Kotz
- Department of Psychology, University of Konstanz, Universitätsstraße 10, 78464 Konstanz, Germany; Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Mirna Al Masri
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Anila Allmeta
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Kai P Purnhagen
- Chair of Food Law, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany
| | - Laura M König
- Junior Professorship of Public Health Nutrition, Faculty of Life Sciences: Food, Nutrition and Health, University of Bayreuth, Fritz-Hornschuch-Straße 13, 95326 Kulmbach, Germany; Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Wächtergasse 1/504, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Orkusz A, Orkusz M. Edible Insects in Slavic Culture: Between Tradition and Disgust. INSECTS 2024; 15:306. [PMID: 38786862 PMCID: PMC11121784 DOI: 10.3390/insects15050306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Insects are a conventional food in many cultures worldwide. Why therefore are they treated with aversion by the majority of people in Western countries? The aim of this work is to understand cultural norms and historical practices related to insects that can explain why in the countries of the West it is so difficult to accept them as a foodstuff, and why the disgust that they arouse is more common than in other regions of the world. Insects in Western countries are associated with negative experiences resulting from cultural and religious beliefs, traditions, stories, myths and individual experiences. Although there are species of insect that have positive associations, the high number of negative terms popularized the negative image of these creatures in people's minds, as a result of which the concept of insects as a foodstuff arouses disgust in the culture of the West. Understanding the aversion to insects will contribute to the broader understanding of consumer attitudes, cultural influences on consumption, or potential shifts in food choices. It also can help develop strategies or methods that will assist in changing this reluctance and encourage the utilization of insects as a food source.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Orkusz
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Analysis, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, 53-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Martyna Orkusz
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nervo C, Ricci M, Torri L. Understanding consumers attitude towards insects as food: Influence of insect species on liking, emotions, sensory perception and food pairing. Food Res Int 2024; 182:114174. [PMID: 38519187 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Entomophagy studies mainly focused on insects as a generic category, rarely considering insect species. This study investigated the: i) affective response to specific edible insect species; ii) sensory properties characterizing the tested insects and their role in driving preferences and food paring. A sensory test (85 consumers, 56.5 % female, 19-73 years) was performed on seven dried whole edible insects at the adult (weaver ants, crickets, grasshoppers), larva (bamboo worms, morio worms, sago worms) and pupae stage (silkworms). For each species, consumers expressed their liking and, through three check-all-that-apply tests, described the perceived sensory properties, the perceived emotions, and their potential food pairings. Results showed a significant effect of the species on all variables. Bamboo worms, weaver ants and grasshoppers resulted the most accepted, followed by morio worms, crickets, and silkworms, while the sago worms were the most disliked. Numerous sensory attributes significantly discriminated among insect species and the drivers of liking and sensory attributes associated to the food pairings were identified. However, two clusters with different preferences and drivers of liking were observed. Moreover, a gender effect was found: i) males associated insects with emotions like calm and wild, while females with glad and pleased; ii) males and females would pair different foods with the insect species. In conclusion, this study provided new knowledge useful for researchers and food industry to develop future insect-based foods and dishes able to meet the expectations of different consumers segments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Nervo
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Bra, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Michele Ricci
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Bra, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Luisa Torri
- University of Gastronomic Sciences, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 9, 12042 Pollenzo, Bra, Cuneo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mikulec AT, Platta AM, Radzymińska M, Ruszkowska M, Mikulec K, Suwała G, Kowalski S, Kowalczewski PŁ, Nowicki M. Attitudes and purchase intentions of polish university students towards food made from insects-A modelling approach. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300871. [PMID: 38551941 PMCID: PMC10980220 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The marketing of insect-derived protein has led to the development of respective legal regulations on such insects-based foods in the European Union. Despite the interest in the area of insect-based food, European researchers have paid relatively little attention to consumer attitudes and behaviors towards such products or the factors that may affect them. Attempts undertaken so far in this respect are insufficient; therefore, there is a need to continue and expand research in this field. The present study attempts to verify the following research hypotheses: H1. Attitudes towards food containing insects are related to the attributes/characteristics of these products, care for health and the natural environment, and attitudes towards novelty (neophilic/neophobic); H2. Intentions to purchase food containing insects can be predicted based on attitudes towards food from insects, product attributes, and attitudes towards environmental health and novelties. An empirical study was conducted among university students (N = 1063) by an indirect interview method using a specially designed questionnaire, via an online platform (Computer-Assisted Web Interview, CAWI) in November 2023. The questionnaire was validated by assessing the construction validity and estimating the reliability of the scales used. The study results demonstrated that the attributes of insect-based food products can influence the positive attitudes towards them and behavioral intentions to consume them, and that the strength of the impact of health quality traits is far greater than that of the organoleptic or functional traits. A negative, statistically significant value of the correlation coefficient between neophobic attitude and intention to purchase this type of food was observed. Thus, respondents without food neophobia were characterized by a positive attitude towards the purchase of foods containing edible insects in their composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna T. Mikulec
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Applied Science in Nowy Sącz, Nowy Sącz, Poland
| | - Anna M. Platta
- Faculty of Management and Quality Science, Gdynia Maritime University, Gdynia, Poland
| | - Monika Radzymińska
- Faculty of Economic Sciences, Institute of Management Science and Quality, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Millena Ruszkowska
- Faculty of Management and Quality Science, Gdynia Maritime University, Gdynia, Poland
| | | | - Grzegorz Suwała
- Department of Food Product Quality, Krakow University of Economics, Kraków, Poland
| | - Stanisław Kowalski
- Faculty of Food Technology, Department of Carbohydrate Technology and Cereal Processing, University of Agriculture in Krakow Poland, Krakow, Poland
| | | | - Marcin Nowicki
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ribeiro JC, Pintado ME, Cunha LM. Consumption of edible insects and insect-based foods: A systematic review of sensory properties and evoked emotional response. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13247. [PMID: 38284589 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Low consumer acceptance of edible insects and insect-based products is one of the main barriers to the successful implementation of entomophagy in Western countries. This rejection is mainly caused by consumers' negative emotional responses, psychological/personality traits, and attitudes toward food choices. However, as the role of intrinsic product characteristics on such food choices has not been adequately studied, a systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA method, to analyze studies that have assessed hedonic evaluations, sensory profiling, or emotional responses to edible insects or insect-based products. The majority of studies performed with whole insects and insect flour highlight that insect-based products are more negatively evaluated than control products. Although the sensory properties of insects are affected by species and processing conditions, they are generally negative across sensory dimensions. In particular, insects and insect-based products are generally associated with odor and flavor/taste attributes that are related to old/spoiled food. These negative attributes can be linked to the fat fraction of edible insects, with insect oils being very negatively evaluated by consumers. On the other hand, defatted fractions and deodorized oils are not associated with these negative attributes, further supporting the hypothesis that the fat fraction is responsible for the negative odor and flavor/taste attributes. However, there is still a lack of studies assessing the sensory profile of edible insects and insect-based products, as well as consumers' emotional responses to their consumption. Future studies should focus on the effects of different processing conditions, products incorporating insect fractions (namely protein concentrates/isolates and defatted fractions), and evaluation by target consumer groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Carlos Ribeiro
- GreenUPorto/INOV4Agro & DGAOT, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
- CBQF-Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina-Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuela E Pintado
- CBQF-Centro de Biotecnologia e Química Fina-Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís M Cunha
- GreenUPorto/INOV4Agro & DGAOT, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, Vairão, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cantalapiedra F, Juan-García A, Juan C. Perception of Food Safety Associated with Entomophagy among Higher-Education Students: Exploring Insects as a Novel Food Source. Foods 2023; 12:4427. [PMID: 38137231 PMCID: PMC10743155 DOI: 10.3390/foods12244427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible insects can diversify diets, improve livelihoods, contribute to food and nutrition security, and have a smaller ecological impact. The European Union has categorized insects as novel food, and recently, in 2021 and 2022, two species, Tenebrio molitor and Acheta domesticus, were authorized for commercialization. The acceptance and perception of food risk derived from insect consumption vary depending on factors impacting insect consumption acceptability, including neophobic tendencies, gender differences, familiarity, and gastronomic perceptions. The aim of this work was to evaluate the perception and acceptance of edible insects by exploring these factors. This study was carried out on higher-education students from universities in Valencia (Spain). The students recognized insects' high nutritional value, particularly protein content, and had varying levels of knowledge about specific nutritional components. In terms of labeling and marketing, removing health and sustainability benefits from packaging can improve consumer responses. Most respondents prefer clear labeling of insect derivatives, quality certification seals, and complete information about insect content. Students consider marketing and knowledge to be significant influencers of insect consumption. In summary, this text highlights the multifaceted nature of insect consumption acceptability. These insights offer valuable perspectives on insect consumption dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Cantalapiedra
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, Burjassot, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (F.C.); (C.J.)
- Veterinary Area of Public Health Center (CSP) Manises (Conselleria Sanitat-Generalitat Valenciana), C. Ceramista Alfons Blat s/n, Manises, 46940 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Juan-García
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, Burjassot, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (F.C.); (C.J.)
| | - Cristina Juan
- Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Valencia, Av. Vicent Andrés Estellés s/n, Burjassot, 46100 Valencia, Spain; (F.C.); (C.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Skotnicka M, Mazurek A, Kowalski S. The Acceptance of Cream Soups with the Addition of Edible Insects (Mealworm, T. molitor; House Cricket, A. domesticus; Buffalo Worm, A. diaperinus; Grasshopper, R. differens) among Young People and Seniors in Poland. Nutrients 2023; 15:5047. [PMID: 38140306 PMCID: PMC10745299 DOI: 10.3390/nu15245047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on the acceptance of consuming insects in one's diet shows the increasing importance of this issue in the context of a sustainable food chain and ecology. Insects represent a promising food source due to their high nutritional value, efficiency in production, and minimal environmental impact, as well as the growing awareness of ecological issues. Despite these benefits, cultural and psychological barriers hinder the acceptance of consuming insects in Western countries. In this study, an assessment was made of the acceptance level of cream-type soups made from tomatoes and white vegetables with the addition of 20% flour from four insect species: mealworm (T. molitor); house cricket (A. domesticus); buffalo worm (A. diaperinus); and grasshopper (R. differens), compared to a control sample. One hundred and four subjects (55 seniors and 49 young adults) participated in this study. The acceptance level of various soups with insect flour was evaluated, considering different sensory parameters such as appearance, smell, taste, and texture. The research showed that older people have a lower acceptance for dishes containing insects compared to young adults, but the differences in the responses given were not statistically significant (p = 0.05), rejecting the assumption that insect-based products should be mainly targeted at young people. Of all the proposed test samples, the mealworm (T. molitor) was the most acceptable insect species in the tests in both taste versions for both age groups. The average score was 6.63 points on a 10-point scale. The products with the addition of grasshopper (R. differens) were rated the lowest. The acceptance level ranged between 4.23 and 4.38 points. A multiple regression analysis showed that taste and texture had the strongest influence on the overall acceptance of these dishes, and the results obtained were highly correlated with the general opinion of the testers. The increasing acceptance level and growing interest in this type of food can be a positive step towards sustainable and efficient food production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Skotnicka
- Department of Commodity Science, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Mazurek
- Department of Commodity Science, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland;
| | - Stanisław Kowalski
- Department of Carbohydrate Technology and Cereal Processing, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 31-120 Kraków, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Naranjo-Guevara N, Stroh B, Floto-Stammen S. Packaging Communication as a Tool to Reduce Disgust with Insect-Based Foods: Effect of Informative and Visual Elements. Foods 2023; 12:3606. [PMID: 37835258 PMCID: PMC10572119 DOI: 10.3390/foods12193606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Disgust associated with insect consumption is a significant challenge faced by the insect-based food industry. One cost-effective approach that managers can employ to increase consumer acceptance is by enhancing packaging design. The packaging represents a cheap and effective means of communication. It is also referred to as a silent seller. This study investigates the potential of packaging communication in reducing disgust towards insect-based products in Germany. In a survey, 422 participants were confronted with packaging designs representing different visual and informative elements. The results showed that images of familiar ingredients and transparent windows on the packaging are particularly effective in reducing disgust. The presence of the organic and specific Ento seals significantly increased the assumed food safety. Claims about protein content and sustainability were less effective. Cricket images had a significant impact on increasing disgust. Practical implications for managers who are seeking to address consumer resistance towards insect-based food products are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Naranjo-Guevara
- Research Group Business Innovation, Fontys University of Applied Sciences, Tegelseweg 225, 5912 BG Venlo, The Netherlands; (B.S.); (S.F.-S.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mulazzani L, Arru B, Camanzi L, Furesi R, Malorgio G, Pulina P, Madau FA. Factors Influencing Consumption Intention of Insect-Fed Fish among Italian Respondents. Foods 2023; 12:3301. [PMID: 37685232 PMCID: PMC10486528 DOI: 10.3390/foods12173301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The rise in the world's demand for fish is increasingly met by aquaculture. However, this sector still shows various criticalities in terms of sustainability of practices, first and foremost, that of feed availability. Nowadays, the use of insect meal represents one of the potential sustainable solutions, but consumption intention of fish fed with insect meal and the factors affecting it have not yet been adequately understood. This study investigates 318 Italian consumers' intentions to buy fish fed with insect meal using an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behavior, including consumers' moral attitude and sustainability consciousness as additional constructs. The results of structural equation models show that consumers' high sustainability consciousness (6.16 on a scale from 1 to 7) does not influence their consumption intention of this product. Also, the two moderating variables involved in the model, i.e., the country of origin and price sensitivity, do not significantly affect consumers' intentions. Since the analysis demonstrates that, for consumers, insect meal-fed fish conforms to their moral principles and a significant positive attitude toward this practice it could be argued that fish fed with insect meal can match the demand from consumers who feel responsible for their consumer behavior. Although the limited area of investigations and the high education of interviewed do not allow for generalizing of the results, this paper provides pivotal food for thought for companies, policymakers, and academics responding to previous research calls on understanding the role of some constructs of consumption intention and highlighting the levers on which to act to foster the consumption intention of insect-fed fish.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Mulazzani
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.M.); (L.C.); (G.M.)
| | - Brunella Arru
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sassari, Via Enrico de Nicola 1, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.P.); (F.A.M.)
| | - Luca Camanzi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.M.); (L.C.); (G.M.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agrofood Research (CIRI-AGRO), Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Furesi
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sassari, Via Enrico de Nicola 1, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.P.); (F.A.M.)
| | - Giulio Malorgio
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (L.M.); (L.C.); (G.M.)
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Agrofood Research (CIRI-AGRO), Alma Mater Studiorum, Università di Bologna, Via Zamboni, 33, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Pietro Pulina
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sassari, Via Enrico de Nicola 1, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.P.); (F.A.M.)
| | - Fabio A. Madau
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sassari, Via Enrico de Nicola 1, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (R.F.); (P.P.); (F.A.M.)
- National Biodiversity Future Centre, University of Palermo, Piazza Marina, 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kasza G, Izsó T, Szakos D, Nugraha WS, Tamimi MH, Süth M. Insects as food - Changes in consumers' acceptance of entomophagy in Hungary between 2016 and 2021. Appetite 2023; 188:106770. [PMID: 37406411 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Public interest in entomophagy (consumption of insects) has developed significantly over the past several years. Possible nutritional benefits are perceived by consumers according to several recent studies, as well as sustainability and food security. However, most European communities, including the Hungarian, do not embrace entomophagy, despite the widespread practice elsewhere globally. This study aims to evaluate the changes in the perception of entomophagy among the Hungarian population between 2016 and 2021, together with the factors differentiating between acceptive and dismissive consumers. The results of the two representative quantitative surveys indicate that more than 70% of Hungarian consumers are not willing to try entomophagy, which had not changed significantly in the observed period, despite the high media coverage of this topic in recent years. Some groups open to insect consumption can still be identified. According to the socioeconomic segmentation of the data collected in 2021, consumers who accept insect-based foods can be found in high numbers among men between 18 and 39 years old (49.3%). Positive attitudes are less likely to be observed among females; however, 27.6% of highly educated women between 18 and 59 years demonstrated a certain level of interest. Those consumers willing to consume insects are driven mainly by curiosity, and also value high protein content and sustainability, and perceive insect-based food as nutritious. Consumers who prefer local and national food tend to refuse to eat insects in a higher ratio.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gyula Kasza
- University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-1078, Budapest, István utca 2., Hungary.
| | - Tekla Izsó
- University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-1078, Budapest, István utca 2., Hungary.
| | - Dávid Szakos
- University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-1078, Budapest, István utca 2., Hungary.
| | - Widya Satya Nugraha
- Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-1118, Budapest, Villányi út 29-43., Hungary; Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, 55281, Indonesia.
| | - Masagus Haidir Tamimi
- Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, H-1118, Budapest, Villányi út 29-43., Hungary.
| | - Miklós Süth
- University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, H-1078, Budapest, István utca 2., Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Amato M, Demartini E, Gaviglio A, Marescotti ME, Verneau F. Consumers' Preferences for Chicken Fed on Different Processed Animal Proteins: A Best-Worst Analysis in Italy. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15071800. [PMID: 37049640 PMCID: PMC10097117 DOI: 10.3390/nu15071800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The increase in meat consumption expected in the next decade will require more and more proteins for animal feeding. The recent amendments to the European "BSE Regulation" allow the use of insects and porcine-based meals in poultry farming, providing novel, sustainable substitutes for vegetable fodder. While the technological and nutritional properties of novel feeds containing processed animal proteins are widely recognized, far less is known about consumers' acceptance of meat produced by animals fed on animal-based meals. In the present research, a best-worst survey was applied to estimate consumers' preferences for chicken fed on plants, insects, or porcine-based meals using a sample of 205 Italian consumers. Furthermore, product price, type of farming, and "Free-from" labeling were considered in the analysis to evaluate the relative importance of feed ingredients compared to other important attributes of meats. The results show that the most relevant attributes are type of farming and "Free-from" claims, while type of feed represents the third attribute in order of importance. Notably, both insect and porcine flour are considered as negative characteristics of the product, suggesting that mandatory labeling signaling the use of these feeds would negatively impact on the value of chicken meat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Amato
- Department of Political Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Rodinò 22, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Eugenio Demartini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Anna Gaviglio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Marescotti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences (DIVAS), University of Milan, Via dell'Università, 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Fabio Verneau
- Department of Political Sciences, University of Napoli Federico II, Via Rodinò 22, 80138 Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mina G, Peira G, Bonadonna A. The Potential Future of Insects in the European Food System: A Systematic Review Based on the Consumer Point of View. Foods 2023; 12:646. [PMID: 36766174 PMCID: PMC9914366 DOI: 10.3390/foods12030646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible insects recently gained attention as a potential contributor to the future sustainability of the food system. Insect farming has indeed shown to have environmental and nutritional benefits, but edible insects are still an unusual foodstuff in Europe. The purpose of this article is to analyze the barriers and drivers of insect consumption in Europe and to identify the most promising strategies to convince consumers to include insect-based products in their diets. To answer these research questions, a systematic review of the literature on the consumer's point of view about insects as food was performed. The results show that the main barrier to the development of this market is related to the psychological rejection of consumers induced by disgust toward entomophagy. To break down these barriers, it is essential to increase the general knowledge about the environmental and nutritional benefits of entomophagy. Furthermore, the limited size of the edible insect market appears to be a structural barrier. Expanding the reach of the market and consumer familiarity with edible insects will increase their acceptability. Finally, some product-related strategies are also highlighted. Furthermore, this article brings new knowledge about the effectiveness of the environmental motive in convincing consumers to try edible insects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alessandro Bonadonna
- Department of Management, University of Turin, Corso Unione Sovietica 218 bis, 10134 Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Is Generation Z Ready to Engage in Entomophagy? A Segmentation Analysis Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15030525. [PMID: 36771232 PMCID: PMC9920697 DOI: 10.3390/nu15030525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examines the behavior and attitudes of adult Generation Z cohort members in relation to entomophagy. Specifically, it explores their familiarity with insect consumption, prior experience, and willingness to consume certain insect-based foods and drinks. Lastly, the Z cohort is segmented based on their behavior and attitudes. Through online quantitative research, a valid sample of 742 questionnaires was collected. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, factor, hierarchical cluster, and K-means cluster analysis, as well as chi-square tests. Results revealed that 41.4% are familiar with what insect consumption is, and no one had previously engaged in entomophagy. The insect-based food that the Z cohort is most willing to try is bakery products containing insect flour. The 88.5% of the Z cohort is not willing to replace meat protein with insect protein, and 20.4% are interested in obtaining more information about entomophagy. Moreover, 6.3% of the Z cohort is "willing" to participate in sensory tests, but when contact information was requested, only one factual name with phone number was provided. Segmentation of the Z cohort's behavior was performed based on eight variables and four segments were identified: the "Future potential insect consumers" (29.1%), the "Rejecters" (26.7%), the "Disgusted, prefer to starve" (22.2%), and the "Inconsistent" (22.0%). Overall, the Z cohort is not food neophobic, but is unwilling to engage in entomophagy. Communication strategies are suggested to increase awareness and provide information about entomophagy and its benefits.
Collapse
|
18
|
Maya C, Cunha LM, de Almeida Costa AI, Veldkamp T, Roos N. Introducing insect- or plant-based dinner meals to families in Denmark: study protocol for a randomized intervention trial. Trials 2022; 23:1028. [PMID: 36539897 PMCID: PMC9764479 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-07000-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plant- and insect-based foods are promising alternative protein sources. Previous studies have shown that introducing plant-based foods to the diet can reduce meat intake, but no such intervention has explored the effects of insect-based foods. METHODS This study aims to integrate alternative proteins to main meals of 80 Danish families through a 6-week two-arm randomized intervention trial to investigate acceptance, consumption, and potential for meat replacement. The primary outcome is the replacement of dietary meat protein with plant- or insect-based protein from the intervention foods assessed through change in daily meat protein intake, proportion of meat protein to total protein intake, and counts of dinner meals with meat and intervention products. CONCLUSION The results of this study will contribute to research in alternative proteins and explore the effects of long-term exposure of meat replacement. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05156853 . Registered 24 December 2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Maya
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 26, 1958, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - Luís Miguel Cunha
- GreenUPorto/Inov4Agro, DGAOT, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Isabel de Almeida Costa
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CATÓLICA-LISBON School of Business & Economics, Palma de Cima, 1649-023, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Teun Veldkamp
- Wageningen Livestock Research, P.O. Box 338, 6700, AH, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Nanna Roos
- Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 26, 1958, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wieczorek M, Kowalczewski P, Drabińska N, Różańska M, Jeleń H. Effect of Cricket Powder Incorporation on the Profile of Volatile Organic Compounds, Free Amino Acids and Sensory Properties of Gluten-Free Bread. POL J FOOD NUTR SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.31883/pjfns/156404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|
20
|
Florença SG, Guiné RPF, Gonçalves FJA, Barroca MJ, Ferreira M, Costa CA, Correia PMR, Cardoso AP, Campos S, Anjos O, Cunha LM. The Motivations for Consumption of Edible Insects: A Systematic Review. Foods 2022; 11:foods11223643. [PMID: 36429235 PMCID: PMC9689975 DOI: 10.3390/foods11223643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The consumption of edible insects (EI) is traditional in many parts of the world, but not in others. In fact, despite globalization and the multiple advantages pointed out about the consumption of EI, there are still many countries where entomophagy is seen with disgust and aversion. This systematic review aimed to examine the motivations that influence the consumption of EI in diverse cultures and understand if there are differences between Western countries (WC) and insect-eating countries (IEC). It further evaluated whether the degree of acceptability was influenced by the form of consumption of the insects (eating whole insects or foods containing insects). This literature review was conducted in November 2021 within three databases, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus, according to the Preferred Reporting of Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis and using PRISMA directives. From a total of 245 studies, 31 were selected to be included in this review, based on the inclusion criteria defined: only original research articles, from 2010 or beyond, and written in English. The results indicated that the main motivations that determine the consumption of EI are related to gender, age, sustainability, nutritional value, sensory attributes, tradition/culture, food neophobia, disgust and familiarity/past experiences. Moreover, whereas in IEC, there is a greater focus on factors related to sensory attributes, availability, affordability and preferences, in WC, there is a bigger emphasis on determinants such as nutritional value, sustainability, benefits, familiarity/past experience, tradition/culture, food neophobia and disgust. Finally, it was observed that people in WC are more willing to accept food products containing insects rather than the whole insect, which is one of the most promising points to be addressed in the future. Overall, this review highlights that there are numerous factors influencing the consumption of edible insects, and differences between WC and IEC are clear in what concerns the motivations of consumers. Hence, targeting market segments and consumers' characteristics has to be present when designing strategies to incentivize the consumption of EI in WC as a part of a global strategy for sustainability of food systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia G. Florença
- Faculty of Food and Nutrition Sciences, University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Raquel P. F. Guiné
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Maria João Barroca
- Molecular Physical-Chemistry R&D Unit, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal
- Polytechnic of Coimbra, Coimbra Agriculture School, Bencanta, 3045-601 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuela Ferreira
- Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Cristina A. Costa
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Paula M. R. Correia
- CERNAS Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Ana P. Cardoso
- CIDEI-IPV Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Sofia Campos
- CIDEI-IPV Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, 3504-510 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Ofélia Anjos
- School of Agriculture, Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco, 6001-909 Castelo Branco, Portugal
- Forest Research Centre, School of Agriculture, University of Lisbon, 1349-017 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís Miguel Cunha
- GreenUPorto–Sustainable Agrifood Production Research Centre/INOV4Agro, Departamento de Geociências, Ambiente e Ordenamento do Território (DGAOT), Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4485-646 Vila do Conde, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Dagevos H, Taufik D. Eating full circle: Exploring consumers’ sympathy for circularity in entomophagy acceptance. Food Qual Prefer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodqual.2022.104760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
22
|
Cardello AV, Llobell F, Giacalone D, Chheang SL, Jaeger SR. Consumer Preference Segments for Plant-Based Foods: The Role of Product Category. Foods 2022; 11:3059. [PMID: 36230135 PMCID: PMC9562706 DOI: 10.3390/foods11193059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A survey of willingness to consume (WTC) 5 types of plant-based (PB) food was conducted in USA, Australia, Singapore and India (n = 2494). In addition to WTC, emotional, conceptual and situational use characterizations were obtained. Results showed a number of distinct clusters of consumers with different patterns of WTC for PB foods within different food categories. A large group of consumers did not discriminate among PB foods across the various food categories. Six smaller, but distinct clusters of consumers had specific patterns of WTC across the examined food categories. In general, PB Milk and, to a much lesser extent, PB Cheese had highest WTC ratings. PB Fish had the lowest WTC, and two PB meat products had intermediate WTC. Emotional, conceptual and situational use characterizations exerted significant lifts/penalties on WTC. No penalty or lifts were imparted on WTC by the situational use of 'moving my diet in a sustainable direction', whereas uses related to 'when I want something I like' and 'when I want something healthy' generally imparted WTC lifts across clusters and food categories. The importance of this research for the study of PB foods is its demonstration that consumers are not monolithic in their willingness to consume these foods and that WTC is often a function of the food category of the PB food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armand V. Cardello
- A.V. Cardello Consulting and Editing Services, Framingham, MA 01701, USA
| | | | - Davide Giacalone
- SDU Innovation & Design Engineering, Department of Technology and Innovation, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | - Sok L. Chheang
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Mt Albert Research Centre, Private Bag 92169, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Sara R. Jaeger
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Mt Albert Research Centre, Private Bag 92169, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lu S, Taethaisong N, Meethip W, Surakhunthod J, Sinpru B, Sroichak T, Archa P, Thongpea S, Paengkoum S, Purba RAP, Paengkoum P. Nutritional Composition of Black Soldier Fly Larvae ( Hermetia illucens L.) and Its Potential Uses as Alternative Protein Sources in Animal Diets: A Review. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13090831. [PMID: 36135532 PMCID: PMC9502457 DOI: 10.3390/insects13090831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly growing population has increased demand for protein quantities and, following a shortage of plant-based feed protein sources and the prohibition of animal-based feed protein, has forced the search for new sources of protein. Therefore, humans have turned their attention to edible insects. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) (Hermetia illucens L.) are rich in nutrients such as fat, protein and high-quality amino acids and minerals, making them a good source of protein. Furthermore, BSFL are easily reared and propagated on any nutrient substrate such as plant residues, animal manure and waste, food scraps, agricultural byproducts, or straw. Although BSFL cannot completely replace soybean meal in poultry diets, supplementation of less than 20% has no negative impact on chicken growth performance, biochemical indicators and meat quality. In pig studies, although BSFL supplementation did not have any negative effect on growth performance and meat quality, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) was reduced. There is obviously less research on the feeding of BSFL in pigs than in poultry, particularly in relation to weaning piglets and fattening pigs; further research is needed on the supplementation level of sows. Moreover, it has not been found that BSFL are used in ruminants, and the next phase of research could therefore study them. The use of BSFL in animal feed presents some challenges in terms of cost, availability and legal and consumer acceptance. However, this should be considered in the context of the current shortage of protein feed and the nutritional value of BSFL, which has important research significance in animal production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengyong Lu
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Nittaya Taethaisong
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Weerada Meethip
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Jariya Surakhunthod
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Boontum Sinpru
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Thakun Sroichak
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Pawinee Archa
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Sorasak Thongpea
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Siwaporn Paengkoum
- Program in Agriculture, Faculty of Science and Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Rayudika Aprilia Patindra Purba
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
| | - Pramote Paengkoum
- School of Animal Technology and Innovation, Institute of Agricultural Technology, Suranaree University of Technology, Muang, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand or
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|