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Insect Protein Market: By Insect Type, By Product Type, By Distribution Channel and Region Forecast 2020-2031
Insect Protein Market size was valued at US$ 419.5 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 1,069.2 million by 2031 at a CAGR of 14.3% from 2025-2031. The insect protein market encompasses the production, processing, and commercialization of protein derived from insects such as crickets, mealworms, black soldier flies, and grasshoppers. These proteins are extracted and formulated into various products including powders, bars, animal feed, and pet food. Insect protein is recognized for its high nutritional value, sustainability, and efficiency in conversion rates compared to traditional animal protein sources. This market includes both direct human consumption and use as feed in aquaculture, poultry, and livestock industries.
The global insect protein market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for sustainable protein sources amid rising environmental concerns and population growth. The market is supported by favorable regulatory developments, heightened interest in alternative proteins, and growing investments from food-tech and agritech startups.
Based on the Insect type
Among the various insect types, black soldier flies are anticipated to lead the market, driven by their high efficiency in bioconversion and nutritional superiority. Black soldier fly larvae can convert organic waste into high-quality protein and lipids at a faster rate than most other insects, making them highly sustainable and cost-effective. Their protein is rich in essential amino acids, making it suitable for aquafeed, poultry, and pet food. Moreover, their ability to thrive on agricultural waste aligns with circular economy goals. Increasing regulatory approvals in regions like Europe and growing industrial-scale production further solidify black soldier flies as the market frontrunner.
Based on the product type
Based on product type, insect protein powder is anticipated to lead the market due to its versatility, high nutritional value, and ease of integration into various food and feed applications. Insect protein powder is rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making it a suitable alternative to traditional protein sources. Its fine texture and neutral taste allow it to be incorporated into sports nutrition products, baked goods, smoothies, and animal feed without altering flavor profiles. Additionally, the powder form offers longer shelf life and easier transportation, which enhances its commercial appeal. With rising consumer demand for sustainable, high-protein ingredients, insect protein powder is becoming the most commercially viable product in the market.
Based on the distribution channel
Based on the distribution channel, online retail is emerging as the leading segment in the market, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient and direct access to niche and sustainable food products. Online platforms provide a broader reach for manufacturers, enabling them to educate consumers, offer detailed product information, and build trust through transparency and branding. As insect-based products are still gaining mainstream acceptance, e-commerce offers a low-risk entry point for curious or health-conscious buyers. Additionally, the rise of digital marketing, influencer promotions, and subscription-based health food services is further fueling online sales. With global e-commerce penetration rising, online retail is poised to dominate this market segment.
Study Period
2025-2031Base Year
2024CAGR
14.3%Largest Market
EuropeFastest Growing Market
Asia-Pacific
One of the key drivers fueling the growth of the market is the rising global demand for sustainable and alternative protein sources. Traditional livestock farming consumes vast resources land, water, and feed while contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, insects require considerably less land, water, and feed while producing minimal emissions, making them a highly efficient protein source. As the global population surges toward 10 billion by 2050, food security and sustainability have become central concerns. Consumers, especially in developed economies, are becoming increasingly aware of their dietary impact on the environment, leading to a shift toward eco-conscious choices. Insect protein offers an excellent amino acid profile, comparable to conventional meats, and is being embraced in sectors like sports nutrition, functional foods, and aquafeed. The environmental and nutritional advantages of insect protein, combined with growing support from sustainability-driven policies, are positioning it as a mainstream protein alternative in the near future.
A significant restraint to the widespread adoption of insect protein is the challenge of consumer acceptance, particularly in Western countries. Despite its environmental and nutritional benefits, the idea of consuming insects still carries a strong "ick" factor for many consumers due to cultural taboos and negative perceptions. This psychological resistance poses a major hurdle for manufacturers seeking to mainstream insect-based food products. Insect consumption, or "entomophagy," is common in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America; however, in regions like North America and Europe, it is often associated with survivalism or poverty rather than innovation or health. To overcome this barrier, companies must invest heavily in education, marketing, and product innovation such as incorporating insect protein into familiar formats like protein bars, flour, or snacks where the insect origin is less visible. Bridging this perception gap is critical for unlocking the full market potential and gaining broader consumer trust and willingness to try.
A major opportunity for growth in the market lies in its expanding application within the animal feed and pet food sectors. Insect protein, particularly from black soldier fly larvae and mealworms, offers a sustainable and highly nutritious alternative to traditional protein sources like fishmeal and soy. This is especially crucial in aquaculture, where overfishing of oceans to produce fishmeal has raised ecological concerns. Insect protein delivers essential amino acids, fatty acids, and micronutrients, supporting optimal growth and health in farmed animals and pets. Regulatory bodies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have begun approving the use of insect protein in various animal feed applications, further validating its safety and efficacy. As pet owners become more conscious about sustainability and nutrition, demand for high-quality, eco-friendly pet food is rising, offering a lucrative expansion avenue for manufacturers in this segment.
A notable trend shaping the market is its growing integration into functional foods and sports nutrition products. Health-conscious consumers and athletes are increasingly seeking protein sources that not only support muscle growth and recovery but also align with sustainability values. Insect protein, rich in essential amino acids, B vitamins, and micronutrients like iron and zinc, meets these criteria. Companies are launching innovative products such as protein powders, energy bars, and meal replacement shakes that incorporate cricket or mealworm protein. These products are often marketed as "clean-label" and "eco-friendly," targeting the growing segment of consumers looking for performance nutrition with minimal environmental impact. Moreover, as awareness of gut health and immunity rises, insect protein’s potential prebiotic properties are drawing attention in the functional food space. This shift from novelty to nutritional necessity is a strong indicator of how insect protein is becoming a staple in premium wellness and fitness categories.
Report Benchmarks |
Details |
Report Study Period |
2025-2031 |
Market Size in 2024 |
US$ 419.5 million |
Market Size in 2031 |
US$ 1,069.2 million |
Market CAGR |
14.3% |
By Insect Type |
|
By Product Type |
|
By Distribution Channel |
|
By Region |
|
PBI Analysts anticipate that the market is transitioning from a niche segment to a commercially viable industry, driven by sustainability concerns, rising protein demand, and supportive regulations. Black soldier fly and cricket-based products are gaining traction, especially in animal feed and functional food applications. PBI Analysts highlight that Europe leads in regulatory frameworks and investments, while Asia-Pacific offers strong growth potential due to traditional acceptance of insect consumption. The rapid rise of online retail is also reshaping distribution dynamics, enabling consumer education and access. Overall, the market is expected to witness steady growth as innovation and acceptance continue to rise.
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Insect protein market size was valued at US$ 419.5 million in 2024 and is projected to reach US$ 1,069.2 million by 2031 at a CAGR of 14.3%.
Insect protein is used in various applications including food and beverages (e.g., protein bars, snacks), animal feed (aquafeed, poultry, pet food), and even in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. It is valued for its high nutritional profile and low environmental impact.
Insect farming requires significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock. Insects also emit fewer greenhouse gases and can be fed on organic waste, making them an eco-friendly and efficient protein source.
Yes, when produced under regulated and hygienic conditions, insect protein is safe to consume. Regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have approved certain insect species for human consumption in various forms.
Europe is currently leading due to strong regulatory support and investment, while Asia-Pacific is rapidly emerging, benefiting from traditional acceptance of insect consumption and a growing need for alternative proteins.
1.Executive Summary |
2.Global Insect Protein Market Introduction |
2.1.Global Insect Protein Market - Taxonomy |
2.2.Global Insect Protein Market - Definitions |
2.2.1. Insect Type |
2.2.2.Product Type |
2.2.3.Distribution Channel |
2.2.4.Region |
3.Global Insect Protein Market Dynamics |
3.1. Drivers |
3.2. Restraints |
3.3. Opportunities/Unmet Needs of the Market |
3.4. Trends |
3.5. Product Landscape |
3.6. New Product Launches |
3.7. Impact of COVID 19 on Market |
4.Global Insect Protein Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 |
4.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
4.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) |
4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.Global Insect Protein Market By Insect Type, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.1. Crickets |
5.1.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.1.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.2. Mealworms |
5.2.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.2.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.3. Black Soldier Flies |
5.3.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.3.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.4. Grasshoppers |
5.4.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.4.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.5. Ants |
5.5.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.5.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.5.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.6. Silkworms |
5.6.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.6.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.6.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
5.7. Others |
5.7.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
5.7.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
5.7.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.Global Insect Protein Market By Product Type, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.1. Whole Insects |
6.1.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.1.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.2. Insect Protein Powder |
6.2.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.2.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.3. Insect Protein Bars |
6.3.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.3.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.4. Insect Oil |
6.4.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.4.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.5. Insect Meal |
6.5.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.5.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.5.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
6.6. Others |
6.6.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
6.6.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
6.6.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
7.Global Insect Protein Market By Distribution Channel, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.1. Online Retail |
7.1.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.1.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
7.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
7.2. Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
7.2.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.2.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
7.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
7.3. Specialty Stores |
7.3.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.3.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
7.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
7.4. Convenience Stores |
7.4.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.4.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
7.4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
7.5. Others |
7.5.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
7.5.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
7.5.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
8.Global Insect Protein Market By Region, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.1. North America |
8.1.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.1.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
8.1.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
8.2. Europe |
8.2.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.2.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
8.2.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
8.3. Asia Pacific (APAC) |
8.3.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.3.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
8.3.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
8.4. Middle East and Africa (MEA) |
8.4.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.4.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
8.4.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
8.5. Latin America |
8.5.1. Market Analysis, 2020 - 2024 and Forecast, 2025 - 2031, (Sales Value USD Million) |
8.5.2. Year-Over-Year (Y-o-Y) Growth Analysis (%) and Market Share Analysis (%) |
8.5.3. Market Opportunity Analysis |
9.North America Insect Protein Market ,2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
9.1. Insect Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
9.1.1.Crickets |
9.1.2.Mealworms |
9.1.3.Black Soldier Flies |
9.1.4.Grasshoppers |
9.1.5.Ants |
9.1.6.Silkworms |
9.1.7.Others |
9.2. Product Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
9.2.1.Whole Insects |
9.2.2.Insect Protein Powder |
9.2.3.Insect Protein Bars |
9.2.4.Insect Oil |
9.2.5.Insect Meal |
9.2.6.Others |
9.3. Distribution Channel Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
9.3.1.Online Retail |
9.3.2.Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
9.3.3.Specialty Stores |
9.3.4.Convenience Stores |
9.3.5.Others |
9.4. Country Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
9.4.1.United States of America (USA) |
9.4.2.Canada |
10.Europe Insect Protein Market ,2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
10.1. Insect Type Analysis and Forecast by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
10.1.1.Crickets |
10.1.2.Mealworms |
10.1.3.Black Soldier Flies |
10.1.4.Grasshoppers |
10.1.5.Ants |
10.1.6.Silkworms |
10.1.7.Others |
10.2. Product Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
10.2.1.Whole Insects |
10.2.2.Insect Protein Powder |
10.2.3.Insect Protein Bars |
10.2.4.Insect Oil |
10.2.5.Insect Meal |
10.2.6.Others |
10.3. Distribution Channel Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
10.3.1.Online Retail |
10.3.2.Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
10.3.3.Specialty Stores |
10.3.4.Convenience Stores |
10.3.5.Others |
10.4. Country Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
10.4.1.Germany |
10.4.2.France |
10.4.3.Italy |
10.4.4.United Kingdom (UK) |
10.4.5.Spain |
11.Asia Pacific (APAC) Insect Protein Market ,2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
11.1. Insect Type Analysis and Forecast by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
11.1.1.Crickets |
11.1.2.Mealworms |
11.1.3.Black Soldier Flies |
11.1.4.Grasshoppers |
11.1.5.Ants |
11.1.6.Silkworms |
11.1.7.Others |
11.2. Product Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
11.2.1.Whole Insects |
11.2.2.Insect Protein Powder |
11.2.3.Insect Protein Bars |
11.2.4.Insect Oil |
11.2.5.Insect Meal |
11.2.6.Others |
11.3. Distribution Channel Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
11.3.1.Online Retail |
11.3.2.Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
11.3.3.Specialty Stores |
11.3.4.Convenience Stores |
11.3.5.Others |
11.4. Country Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
11.4.1.China |
11.4.2.India |
11.4.3.Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) |
11.4.4.Japan |
11.4.5.Rest of APAC |
12.Middle East and Africa (MEA) Insect Protein Market ,2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
12.1. Insect Type Analysis and Forecast by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
12.1.1.Crickets |
12.1.2.Mealworms |
12.1.3.Black Soldier Flies |
12.1.4.Grasshoppers |
12.1.5.Ants |
12.1.6.Silkworms |
12.1.7.Others |
12.2. Product Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
12.2.1.Whole Insects |
12.2.2.Insect Protein Powder |
12.2.3.Insect Protein Bars |
12.2.4.Insect Oil |
12.2.5.Insect Meal |
12.2.6.Others |
12.3. Distribution Channel Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
12.3.1.Online Retail |
12.3.2.Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
12.3.3.Specialty Stores |
12.3.4.Convenience Stores |
12.3.5.Others |
12.4. Country Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
12.4.1.GCC Countries |
12.4.2.South Africa |
12.4.3.Rest of MEA |
13.Latin America Insect Protein Market ,2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 (Sales Value USD Million) |
13.1. Insect Type Analysis and Forecast by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
13.1.1.Crickets |
13.1.2.Mealworms |
13.1.3.Black Soldier Flies |
13.1.4.Grasshoppers |
13.1.5.Ants |
13.1.6.Silkworms |
13.1.7.Others |
13.2. Product Type Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
13.2.1.Whole Insects |
13.2.2.Insect Protein Powder |
13.2.3.Insect Protein Bars |
13.2.4.Insect Oil |
13.2.5.Insect Meal |
13.2.6.Others |
13.3. Distribution Channel Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
13.3.1.Online Retail |
13.3.2.Supermarkets/Hypermarkets |
13.3.3.Specialty Stores |
13.3.4.Convenience Stores |
13.3.5.Others |
13.4. Country Analysis 2020 - 2024 and Forecast 2025 - 2031 by Sales Value USD Million, Y-o-Y Growth (%), and Market Share (%) |
13.4.1.Brazil |
13.4.2.Mexico |
13.4.3.Rest of LA |
14. Competition Landscape |
14.1. Market Player Profiles (Introduction, Brand/Product Sales, Financial Analysis, Product Offerings, Key Developments, Collaborations, M & A, Strategies, and SWOT Analysis) |
14.2.1.EnviroFlight |
14.2.2.InnovaFeed |
14.2.3.Hexafly |
14.2.4.Protix |
14.2.5.Global Bugs |
14.2.6.Entomo Farms |
14.2.7.Nutrition Technologies |
14.2.8.Beta Bugs |
14.2.9.Aspire Food Group |
14.2.10.Hipromine |
15. Research Methodology |
16. Appendix and Abbreviations |
Key Market Players