Insect-based Ingredients - Global Strategic Business Report

The global market for Insect-based Ingredients was valued at US$1.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach US$2.8 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2024 to 2030. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of market trends, drivers, and forecasts, helping you make informed business decisions. The report includes the most recent global tariff developments and how they impact the Insect-based Ingredients market.

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 the Report

The report analyzes the Insect-based Ingredients market, presented in terms of market value (USD). The analysis covers the key segments and geographic regions outlined below:

• 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.

Key Insights:

• Market Growth: Understand the significant growth trajectory of the Insect-based Animal Feed segment, which is expected to reach US$1.1 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of a 5.6%. The Insect-based Pharmaceutical Products segment is also set to grow at 9.3% CAGR over the analysis period.
• Regional Analysis: Gain insights into the U.S. market, valued at $500.0 Million in 2024, and China, forecasted to grow at an impressive 10.8% CAGR to reach $571.4 Million by 2030. Discover growth trends in other key regions, including Japan, Canada, Germany, and the Asia-Pacific.

Why You Should Buy This Report:

• Detailed Market Analysis: Access a thorough analysis of the Global Insect-based Ingredients Market, covering all major geographic regions and market segments.
• Competitive Insights: Get an overview of the competitive landscape, including the market presence of major players across different geographies.
• Future Trends and Drivers: Understand the key trends and drivers shaping the future of the Global Insect-based Ingredients Market.
• Actionable Insights: Benefit from actionable insights that can help you identify new revenue opportunities and make strategic business decisions.

Key Questions Answered:

• How is the Global Insect-based Ingredients Market expected to evolve by 2030?
• What are the main drivers and restraints affecting the market?
• Which market segments will grow the most over the forecast period?
• How will market shares for different regions and segments change by 2030?
• Who are the leading players in the market, and what are their prospects?

Report Features:

• Comprehensive Market Data: Independent analysis of annual sales and market forecasts in US$ Million from 2024 to 2030.
• In-Depth Regional Analysis: Detailed insights into key markets, including the U.S., China, Japan, Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, and Africa.
• Company Profiles: Coverage of players such as Agriprotein, All Things Bugs LLC, Beta Hatch, Bühler Insect Technology, Chapul Inc. and more.
• Complimentary Updates: Receive free report updates for one year to keep you informed of the latest market developments.

Some of the 48 companies featured in this Insect-based Ingredients market report include:

• 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

This edition integrates the latest global trade and economic shifts into comprehensive market analysis. Key updates include:

• Tariff and Trade Impact: Insights into global tariff negotiations across 180+ countries, with analysis of supply chain turbulence, sourcing disruptions, and geographic realignment. Special focus on 2025 as a pivotal year for trade tensions, including updated perspectives on the Trump-era tariffs.
• Adjusted Forecasts and Analytics: Revised global and regional market forecasts through 2030, incorporating tariff effects, economic uncertainty, and structural changes in globalization. Includes historical analysis from 2015 to 2023.
• Strategic Market Dynamics: Evaluation of revised market prospects, regional outlooks, and key economic indicators such as population and urbanization trends.
• Innovation & Technology Trends: Latest developments in product and process innovation, emerging technologies, and key industry drivers shaping the competitive landscape.
• Competitive Intelligence: Updated global market share estimates for 2025 (E), competitive positioning of major players (Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial), and refined focus on leading global brands and core players.
• Expert Insight & Commentary: Strategic analysis from economists, trade experts, and domain specialists to contextualize market shifts and identify emerging opportunities.