The edible insect market - Italy

The global market for edible insects has been experiencing significant growth, with a market estimated at $954.44 million in 2021 and a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19% from 2018 to 2023. Asia, Latin America, and Europe are the largest markets, with North America expected to show the highest growth rate of 28% between 2018 and 2023. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for alternative protein sources like edible insects has increased due to disruptions in the meat supply chain. The growth in Europe is attributed to insects being a sustainable and high-quality protein source. Italy, representing 6% of the European market, has seen legal changes allowing for insect cultivation, leading to the rise of startups offering insect-based food products. The edible insect industry mainly consists of small companies with less than 10 employees, and the European Union's recent approval of certain insect species as feed for poultry and pigs is expected to drive the growth in the insect-based animal feed market..Italian Market Trend Analysis: The Rise of Edible Insects as Sustainable and Nutritional Alternative In Italy, the edible insect market is experiencing a nascent phase of growth, catalyzed by changing consumer attitudes and legislative developments. With an amendment to Article 2135 of the Civil Code on May 18, 2021, Italy has legalized the cultivation of insects, ushering in a new era for this unconventional food source. Despite a rich variety of around 1,400 species of edible insects worldwide, traditionally consumed in regions such as Africa, the Americas, and Asia, Italy's market is not yet mature but shows promising signs of expansion. Italian startups like Fucibo lead the way, attempting to integrate insects into the Italian food industry by reinventing popular food products. Instead of promoting insects as standalone meals – a strategy that might not appeal to the Italian palate, steeped in culinary tradition – these companies aim to introduce insects as an innovative ingredient in pastas, chips, or bread substitutes. The gradual and thoughtful approach to introducing edible insects to the Italian market reflects the collective sentiment; in 2018, around 54 percent of Italians expressed opposition to consuming edible insects, valuing their traditional food culture. However, a notable 40 percent of the population showed indifference or positivity toward this dietary innovation. Europe's edible insect market has seen a surge in products like insect-based powders, projected to grow by up to 17 percent by 2025. Insect-derived foods such as snack bars and pastas currently dominate consumption, but a shift is expected with sports and dietary supplements taking the lead in market share. Globally, the market was estimated at approximately $954.44 million in 2021, with signs of substantial growth estimated between 2019 and 2023. Italy represents around 6 percent of this burgeoning European market, with an estimated value between $50 and $60 million during this period. Driving the market is the multifaceted appeal of insects as a food source: nutritionally rich in high-quality protein and iron, environmentally sustainable with minimal land and water requirements, and a low-carbon footprint compared to traditional livestock farming. These advantages position edible insects not only as a food alternative but also as a solution to food waste and sustainable agriculture. Italian companies in the edible insect sector are predominantly micro-enterprises; 81 percent have less than ten employees. Capital investment is relatively modest; around 63 percent have invested less than €500,000, signifying a market still in its infancy. Sales channels reflect.### Prominent Companies Championing the Edible Insect Revolution in Italy The edible insect industry, though nascent in Italy, is witnessing the rise of innovative startups and farms that are shaping the market. These early adopters are leading the charge in transforming consumer perceptions and integrating insects into the food value chain. #### 21 Bites Operating as an e-commerce platform, 21 Bites is playing a pivotal role in making edible insect products accessible to the European market. They offer a wide array of insect-based food products, ranging from protein bars made with cricket flour to chocolate-covered bugs, showcasing the versatility and potential culinary applications of insects. #### Italian Cricket Farm The aptly named Italian Cricket Farm specializes in the cultivation of crickets, which are well-regarded for their high protein content and environmental sustainability. This operation is a key player in advancing the production technology and breeding of edible insects tailored to the Italian palate. #### Monselice Insect Farm Monselice Insect Farm is another entrepreneurial entity dedicated to rearing insects for consumption. Its location and approach showcase the regional diversity within Italy's emerging insect agricultural sector, and its efforts contribute to expanding the variety of edible insects available to consumers. #### Alia Insect Farm Alia Insect Farm demonstrates the potential for scalability and innovation within the insect farming industry. By focusing on efficient production methods and nurturing partnerships within the sector, they are an essential component of a growing network that seeks to promote insects as a viable and nutritious food source. Together, these companies are carving a niche in the Italian market, providing crucial infrastructure, knowledge, and products to entice consumers and stakeholders in the edible insect movement. Their pioneering spirit is a testament to the potential for edible insects to become a staple in sustainable diets, contributing significantly to food security and environmental stewardship.

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• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 26/11/2021

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