Insects on the plate: EU allows new food revolution!

Insects on the plate: EU allows new food revolution!

From Monday, February 12, 2025, UV-treated insect powder may be used in food in the European Union, in particular the powder of the larvae of the flour beetle (Tenebrio Molitor). This was approved by the EU Commission in order to increase the vitamin D content of the powder. However, these powdered and treated larvae may only be sold by a French company for the time being, since special approval is required. In the EU, insects are already approved as food, whereby manufacturers need approval that also includes labeling on the products, as the Commission emphasizes. "People in the EU can choose what they eat and nobody forces them to eat insects or worms," said a spokesman for the Commission.

increasing acceptance but skeptical consumers

Despite the new approval, a survey shows that many consumers in the EU, especially older people, are skeptical about insects as food. Overall, however, there is a trend towards the acceptance of insects as a nutritious and protein -rich source that can also be produced environmentally friendly. In the EU there are not only the flour beetle larvae, but also other insects such as the yellow mealworm, the European hiking grasshoppers and the house grille approved as food
These insects can be used in different forms, including powdered, for products such as noodles, baked goods or as meat replacement. However, the food must be clearly marked in order to help allergy sufferers recognize risks, since allergic reactions can occur, as Consumerzentral.de reports.

The legal basis for the sale of insects is based on the Novel food regulation, which says that such foods need special permits. Some types of insects have not yet received any approval and currently have to be sold under transitional regulations. Overall, the market for insects is growing as food in the EU, while clear legal requirements should protect consumers.