ARTICLE 54 Alternative Proteins Magazine April 2024 “Insect education creates a sense of empowerment and resilience among communities worldwide. As people gain the knowledge and skills to rear, process, and utilize insects, they become less reliant on traditional food systems that can be inefficient and unsustainable. This self-sufficiency not only enhances food security but also promotes economic development and social equity.” As the demand for insect ingredients for food, feed, and non-food applications grows, there is a corresponding need for qualified personnel within the insect production industry. This includes professionals from a wide variety of fields e.g. entomology, engineering, veterinary science, food science, and agronomy, among others. It is necessary to create an appropriate educational offer for the actors within this industry, meaning quality materials, qualified instructors, and collaborations with insect producers. CHALLENGES IN ACCESSING QUALITY EDUCATION ON INSECTS AS FOOD AND FEED For those intrigued by the possibility of exploring insects as a source of food and feed, the learning curve presents many challenges. The field is still in its infancy, with no university programmes dedicated exclusively to insect breeding and production for food and feed. Instead, these subjects are often integrated into broader curricula. Those seeking specialized knowledge must rely on courses, seminars, or workshops offered by universities, private entities, or start-ups linked to insect production. With the exception of a few offerings, these resources are often costly, can be restricted by language, usually follow a traditional face-to-face format, or lack solid scientific support. If we are to meet the needs of the growing human population, there is no way to maintain conventional livestock production from an environmental point of view. The use of insects as a viable alternative for food and feed is essential to meet this challenge. Improved education in this field is therefore essential. Renowned entomologist Arnold van Huis, whose pioneering work has boosted the insect-based food and feed industry, advocates for the integration of this field into formal education. This is in line with Sustainable Development Goals 4 and 12, which emphasize quality education and responsible consumption and production, respectively. Recognizing its potential role in securing our future food supply, van Huis stresses the importance of fosterWHY EDUCATION IS KEY TO PROMOTING INSECTS AS FOOD AND FEED Rodrigo Llauradó Casares Co-Founder and Marketing Specialist Insect Academy
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