Alternative protein sources: Your guide to cricket protein

Sunbears
3 min readJan 26, 2025

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Source: Harvard Health

In recent years, the search for sustainable, nutrient-dense protein alternatives has led to an exciting new frontier: insect-based protein powders. These eco-friendly, easily digestible powders are rapidly gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts, environmentalists and curious foodies alike.

Have you ever considered adding insect protein into your diet? Here’s everything you need to know to get started!

Why consider insect protein?

1. Highly nutritious: Insect protein, particularly from crickets, is packed with essential nutrients. It’s a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that your body cannot produce on its own. Additionally, it’s rich in iron, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids — key nutrients for energy production, brain health, and overall vitality.

2. Easy to digest: Unlike many traditional plant-based proteins (like pea or soy) that can cause bloating or discomfort for some, cricket protein is gentle on the digestive system. This makes it a great choice for people with sensitivities or lactose intolerance.

3. Environmentally friendly: One of the main benefits of insect protein is its sustainability. Insect farming requires significantly less water, land, and feed compared to livestock farming. It also produces far fewer greenhouse gas emissions, making it a planet-friendly alternative to conventional protein sources.

How to use insect protein

If you’re intrigued by the benefits but unsure how to incorporate insect protein into a meal, don’t worry — it’s versatile and easy to use!! Here are some practical ideas:

Smoothies

Start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie. Add a scoop of insect protein powder to your favourite combination of fruits, vegetables, and plant-based milk. Its mild, nutty flavour blends seamlessly into most recipes.

Baking

Swap a portion of flour in your baking recipes with insect protein powder. Whether you’re making pancakes, muffins, or homemade protein bars, this simple substitution can boost the nutritional value of your snacks without altering their taste significantly.

Savoury meals

Enhance soups, sauces, and stir-fries by stirring in a spoonful of cricket protein powder. It’s an easy way to add protein without altering the texture of your dishes.

Protein-packed snacks

Sprinkle insect protein powder over popcorn, roasted nuts, or even a fresh salad for a subtle crunch and extra protein.

Reputable brands to try

When selecting an insect protein powder, it’s essential to choose reputable brands that prioritise quality and sustainability. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Entomo Farms (Canada)

Known for their high-quality cricket protein powders and snacks, Entomo Farms prioritises free-range farming and GMO-free practices.

2. Chapul (USA)

Chapul offers cricket protein powders and energy bars with a strong focus on eco-conscious practices. They’re pioneers in the insect protein movement.

3. Grilo Protein (Australia)

Grilo Protein is dedicated to producing organic, sustainably sourced cricket powders, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

4. Jimini’s (Europe)

Based in Europe, Jimini’s provides a diverse range of insect-based products, including protein powders, snacks, and even pasta. Their commitment to sustainability and transparency is impressive.

Tips for choosing the best insect protein powder

Before purchasing, let’s keep these tips in mind:

  • Ingredient list: Check for powders without artificial flavours, added sugars, or unnecessary preservatives.
  • Certifications: Look for brands with organic or eco-friendly certifications to ensure ethical sourcing.
  • Transparency: Choose companies that are open about their farming practices and production processes.

Why it’s worth a try

Insect protein powders are more than just a trend — they’re a step towards a healthier, more sustainable future. By incorporating them into our diets, we’ll not only boost our protein intake but also contribute to reducing the environmental impact of traditional protein sources.

Have you tried insect protein yet? Let us know in the comment section below! 👀🐻

Reference list

van Huis, A. (2013). Edible Insects: Future Prospects for Food and Feed Security. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Link to FAO Report

Oonincx, D. G., & de Boer, I. J. (2012). Environmental Impact of the Production of Mealworms as a Protein Source for Humans \u2013 A Life Cycle Assessment. PLoS One. DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0051145

Payne, C. L. R., Scarborough, P., Rayner, M., & Nonaka, K. (2016). Are edible insects more or less \u2018healthy\u2019 than commonly consumed meats? A comparison using two nutrient profiling models developed to combat over-and undernutrition. Food Chemistry. DOI:10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.05.115

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Edible insects as an innovative solution to food security

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Sunbears
Sunbears

Written by Sunbears

Driven by our passion for sports, we have made it our goal to contribute to the development of the sports world. // 私たちはスポーツへの情熱を胸に、スポーツ界の発展に貢献することを目標としています。

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