Insect-based Ingredients

Global Insect-based Ingredients Market to Reach US$2.8 Billion by 2030

The global market for Insect-based Ingredients estimated at US$1.8 Billion in the year 2024, is expected to reach US$2.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Insect-based Animal Feed, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is expected to record a 5.6% CAGR and reach US$1.1 Billion by the end of the analysis period. Growth in the Insect-based Pharmaceutical Products segment is estimated at 9.3% CAGR over the analysis period.

The U.S. Market is Estimated at US$500.0 Million While China is Forecast to Grow at 10.8% CAGR

The Insect-based Ingredients market in the U.S. is estimated at US$500.0 Million in the year 2024. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$571.4 Million by the year 2030 trailing a CAGR of 10.8% over the analysis period 2024-2030. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% and 6.8% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 4.6% CAGR.

Global Insect-Based Ingredients Market - Key Trends & Drivers Summarized

Why Are Insect-Based Ingredients Gaining Commercial and Nutritional Appeal?

Insect-based ingredients are emerging as viable sources of protein, lipids, fiber, and micronutrients for use in food, feed, cosmetics, and agriculture. These ingredients are derived from insects such as black soldier flies, crickets, and mealworms and are processed into protein powders, oils, flours, and chitin derivatives. Rising demand for sustainable, high-protein alternatives is driving global interest in insect-based products across both human and animal nutrition markets.

The nutritional profile of insect ingredients, including essential amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and bioavailable minerals like iron and zinc, makes them suitable for protein fortification in food and beverage products. Their low environmental impact and capacity to be reared on organic waste support their adoption as a circular and eco-friendly ingredient solution. As consumers and industries seek to reduce dependence on resource-intensive inputs, insects are being positioned as a scalable option for sustainable ingredient sourcing.

How Are Processing Techniques and Applications Evolving?

Advancements in insect farming, protein extraction, and oil separation are allowing for the consistent production of food-grade and feed-grade insect ingredients. Technologies such as defatting, spray-drying, and hydrolysis are used to create powders and functional extracts that integrate into bakery products, meat analogues, snacks, and sports nutrition formulas. In pet food and aquafeed, insect proteins are being formulated into high-digestibility pellets and extruded kibble.

Beyond protein, chitin and its derivative chitosan are extracted from insect exoskeletons and used in cosmetics, medical dressings, and biodegradable films. Insect oils rich in lauric acid are applied in feed and skin care. Innovations in taste masking, blending, and allergen management are improving the sensory appeal and regulatory readiness of insect-based food ingredients. These developments are supporting expansion into functional and fortified food markets.

Where Is Demand Growing, and Who Are the Key End-Users?

Insect-based ingredients are witnessing growing demand in North America and Europe due to regulatory approvals and consumer openness to alternative proteins. Asia Pacific markets are also expanding, driven by traditional familiarity with insect consumption and government-led initiatives in sustainable agriculture. Pet food, aquafeed, and livestock feed remain primary markets due to regulatory flexibility and lower acceptance barriers compared to human food.

Food manufacturers targeting clean-label, allergen-free, or environmentally responsible products are adopting insect protein and oil blends in niche offerings. Fitness and health brands are exploring insect ingredients in protein bars, powders, and ready-to-drink formulations. Biotech firms and cosmetic companies are investing in insect-derived bioactives for use in natural skincare and antimicrobial applications. This diversity of end-use sectors is enabling steady market development.

What Is Driving Growth in the Insect-Based Ingredients Market?

Growth in the insect-based ingredients market is driven by several factors including rising demand for sustainable protein alternatives, favorable regulations for insect rearing and processing, and expanding product innovation across food, feed, and cosmetic segments. Improved scalability of insect farming, efficient bioconversion processes, and increasing investment in food-grade manufacturing infrastructure are supporting market penetration.

End-use expansion in functional foods, pet nutrition, livestock feed, skincare, and bioplastics is creating multiple revenue streams. Consumer preference for high-protein, low-impact ingredients is aligning with insect protein’s nutritional and environmental benefits. Regional initiatives promoting circular agriculture and food security are accelerating industrial insect rearing. These drivers are reinforcing long-term growth for insect-derived ingredients as part of a diversified ingredient portfolio in global value chains.

SCOPE OF STUDY:

The report analyzes the Insect-based Ingredients market in terms of units by the following Segments, and Geographic Regions/Countries:

Segments:
Product Type (Insect-based Animal Feed, Insect-based Pharmaceutical Products, Insect-based Human Food & Beverages, Insect-based Ingredients); Insect Type (Beetles, Caterpillar, Hymenoptera, Orthoptera, Tree Bugs, Other Insect Types)

Geographic Regions/Countries:
World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa.

Select Competitors (Total 48 Featured) -

• Agriprotein
• All Things Bugs LLC
• Beta Hatch
• Bühler Insect Technology
• Chapul Inc.
• Entobel
• Entomo Farms
• EnviroFlight LLC
• FarmInsect
• Hexafly
• Innovafeed
• Insect Technology Group
• Insectta
• Jimini’s
• MealFood Europe
• NextProtein
• Nutrition Technologies
• Proti-Farm Holding NV
• Ÿnsect
• Zirp GmbH

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