FPÖ politician Haider against insects in food-dangers to consumers?

FPÖ politician Haider against insects in food-dangers to consumers?

Europäische Union, EU - On April 8, 2025, the decision of the EU Parliament's environmental committee caused a sensation when with a clear majority against a ban on house crickets (Acheta Domesticus) was voted as food. This approval is sharply criticized by Mag. Roman Haider, the FPÖ European Parliamentarian. Haider sees the development in accordance with the EU agricultural program Farm-to-Fork, which in his opinion promotes a departure from conventional nutrition towards insects and genetically manipulated plants. The use of house grille powder can already be found in numerous foods such as bread, pasta, soups and chocolate, without this having to be shown separately, Haider complains in his statement on ots.at .

The decision of the EU, insects such as the house crickets and the larvae of the grain desk beetle in food is considered harmless. According to Tagesschau.de For more than one and a half years, the yellow mealworm and grasshoppers have been approved for processing in the EU. The latest approvals also come into force today, which means that these insects can be used as snacks or ground in food with a maximum of ten percent. Consumers can decide for themselves whether they buy these new foods, whereby allergic instructions are prescribed, since allergic reactions can occur in sensitive people.

labeling and allergic instructions

For products that contain insects, a label on the list of ingredients is required. The European Food Safety Agency has scientifically classified the consumption of insects as harmless to health. However, Haider calls for additional studies on the potential risks, especially with regard to allergic reactions to cricket powder. It emphasizes the importance of clear indications of food that contain insects or their components in order to enable consumers to make an informed purchase decision.

The EU Commission regards the use of insects as an alternative protein source to support a more sustainable food supply. Advantages of insect breeding include lower greenhouse gas emissions, reduced water and surface consumption as well as fewer food waste. In addition, insects contain a high content of protein, vitamins, fiber and minerals, which makes it attractive as a source of food, also compared to conventional meat.

insect products in Germany

Despite these developments, edible insects in Germany have so far been little common among consumers. A market check from the consumer advice center from 2020 only identified 32 insect products in supermarkets. On the other hand, more diverse offers are available online, including snacks such as fried grasshoppers, insect flour as well as protein bars and powder. However, fresh goods or living menu are not available in Germany, such as Federal Government.de

The future development of the market for insect products is being observed with excitement, since the EU continues to check applications for the approval of further insect products. This progress could have a decisive influence on nutrition in Europe and are regarded as part of a wider sustainability policy.