Edible insects as innovative foods: Nutritional and functional assessments

Abstract

In the face of rising population, food insecurity is emerging as a global challenge. Nutritious sources of food are frantically being searched for and so far underutilized food candidates are being assessed. In this regard, Arthropoda, the largest phylum in the animal kingdom fits the bill. Especially, the Class Insecta holds tremendous promise, without harming the environment. Loaded in proteins, fat and minerals, the “edible insects” can alleviate hunger and malnutrition. In fact, in every country, entomophagy is practiced, though mostly among the low-income groups. However, few hiccups lie in the path of their popularization as food articles. Their allergenicity and pathogen-carrying trai..