Search Results
Abstract
We evaluated the effect of experimental logging of two different ages, and the effect of tree girdling without selective logging, on the local abundance of three heliothermic lizards. The response to intensity of selective logging varied among species of lizards. The local abundance of M. nigropunctata increased with the intensity of logging damage, while the relationships for K. calcarata and A. ameiva were not statistically significant. The three species used plots cut four years before more frequently than control plots, but the density of A. ameiva in gaps in blocks cut 9-10 years before was similar to that in undisturbed vegetation. The girdling treatments had a significant negative effect on K. calcarata, but not M. nigropunctata or A. ameiva. We suggest that differences in numbers of lizards reflect a behavioral choice for microhabitats created in the logging areas, because the spatial scale of this study was too small to confidently detect the effects of the silvicuture treatments on populations of the species.
Insects have been a component of the human diet for ages, but their popularity as human food has only expanded considerably in recent years due to their potential as a large future food supply with high nutritional content and considerable environmental benefits. One of the promising insects with potential in foodstuff application is the red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). It is believed that with the advancement of new knowledge and technology, edible insects, specifically RPW larvae, would gain more acceptance globally, expand their market, and serve as a more sustainable alternative to meat. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of RPW larvae as human food. This study further emphasises that RPW larvae are suitable for human consumption since they are nutritious. The trade-in edible insects, particularly RPW, presents tremendous potential, as many nations have begun to recognise them as human foods, and other nations, such as Thailand, even produce them on a food business scale. In order to present a more comprehensive perspective, the possibility of the RPW’s mass rearing is also examined. In addition, the global acceptance of RPW cannot be separated from several advantages compared to similar insect larvae of other species in terms of mass-rearing and distribution, as well as nutritional value, which indicates the larvae’s high potential for processing into food products. It is envisaged that this study would give an overview for policymakers to plan and implement more appropriate policies and regulations to assist the growth of the RPW industry.
Insects need a sufficient quantity of macro- and micronutrients in their diet for maximising their growth, development, and reproduction. To achieve high efficiency in the mass production of a particular insect species, the quality of the diet given must be considered, both in terms of its chemical (nutrients) and physical (hardness and form) characteristics. Black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), is a beneficial insect widely reared due to its easy and cost-effective maintenance. An example of the end-product of BSF larvae (BSFL) is known as BSF oil, which can be used for animal feed, raw material in bar/liquid soap, and biodiesel. To obtain the best quality of oil produced from BSFL, finding an optimal substrate through diet mixing or manipulation is quite necessitated. Fatty acids with more than 18 carbons should be found in the substrate to be absorbed into the fat of BSFL to obtain a high-quality oil. There is a positive correlation between the fatty acid concentration in the substrate and the concentration in BSFL, that the concentration in BSFL is influenced by the concentration in the substrate. This emphasises the importance of the substrate’s fatty acid content in incorporating these fatty acids into BSF oil. Although the oils produced by the insect are especially high in medium-chain fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids, yet, to produce on such a large scale requiring further investigations.
Abstract
As the global population continues to grow, traditional protein sources like meat and fish are becoming increasingly unsustainable due to their environmental impact. Edible insects, on the other hand, are highly nutritious, require minimal resources to produce, and emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases than traditional livestock. Lepidoptera, one of the most diverse insect orders, contains some popular edible species that have been consumed traditionally for centuries across the globe. Based on this review, about 24 families with a total of about 350 edible lepidopteran species were recorded. They are often praised for their excellent nutritional value, such as having high protein and healthy fat content. Edible lepidopterans also contain minerals, essential amino acids, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. They also contain bioactive compounds which have various nutraceutical and pharmaceutical properties. Furthermore, some edible lepidopterans can be farmed and require minimal space and resources. However, there are significant challenges associated with their use as food. One of the primary challenges is the lack of regulations governing their production and distribution, which creates uncertainty for consumers and businesses alike. Consumer acceptance is also a significant barrier to the widespread adoption of insects as food. To overcome these challenges, there is a need for clear regulations that ensure the safety and quality of insect-based products. Furthermore, it is important to raise awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of edible insects as sustainable food for the future to promote their acceptance among consumers.
Contributors are Berch Berberoglu, Tom Brass, Ronald H. Chilcote, Raúl Delgado Wise, John Bellamy Foster, Hannah Holleman, Ashok Kumbamu, Fernando Leiva, Stephen Lendman, Morris Morley, Michael Parenti, and Henry Veltmeyer.
Contributors are Berch Berberoglu, Tom Brass, Ronald H. Chilcote, Raúl Delgado Wise, John Bellamy Foster, Hannah Holleman, Ashok Kumbamu, Fernando Leiva, Stephen Lendman, Morris Morley, Michael Parenti, and Henry Veltmeyer.
Nutritious and sustainable food sources are much needed to compensate for the rising demand for food due to the ever-growing human population. The idea of using insects as potential future foods is getting more attention globally. The consumption of insects or entomophagy offers several advantages other than fulfilling human nutritional and energy requirements. By considering climate change and the reduction in arable land and water, entomophagy and insect farming is regarded to be more environmentally friendly than animal husbandry. Among thousands of edible insect species, grasshoppers and locusts may become viable options as novel foods. In this review, all edible grasshopper and locust species are listed along with the countries where they are consumed. The nutritional value and nutraceutical and pharmaceutical properties of some commonly consumed grasshoppers and locusts are overviewed. Lastly, factors affecting the consumer acceptance of grasshoppers and locusts as emerging foods are discussed, and steps to incorporate the insects into consumers’ tables are given. Based on this review, there are at least 120 species of edible grasshopper and locust species. They are packed with nutrients and antioxidant substances, and are widely consumed across African and Asian countries and in certain parts of America. However, the rejection of grasshoppers and locusts as foods is still prevalent among consumers in western countries due to the stigma surrounding insects. Raising the consumers’ awareness through the dissemination of the health and environmental benefits of entomophagy could be a strategic way to increase the adoption of grasshoppers and locusts as foods.
Abstract
The residual population growth imposes an increase in food demand, driving humans to practice agricultural intensification on a large scale. Paradoxically, food and feed production may end up causing various environmental problems. At the same time, about 2.37 billion people in the World currently lack basic food security insurance. As a consequence, alternative sources that can substantially address the demand for food and feed sustainably are needed. Insect farming may offer an environmentally friendly solution for mitigating global food and feed challenges. The article aims to explore the potential of insects as sustainable food and feed sources while assessing their environmental impact, offering innovative solutions for global food security challenges. By highlighting the benefits of edible insects, the article supports informed decision-making and promotes sustainable practices. Mass production of edible insects has seen record growth over the decade, and their demand as future proteins is projected to reach up to 3 million tons in 2030. Additionally, insect farming is evidenced to be economically viable. To meet the demand for edible insects, a breakthrough such as the internet of things can be used to scale up production and processing. However, detailed environmental impact assessments are needed to predict scenarios of large-scale insect farming. Life cycle assessments of some edible insect production systems have validated that insect farming has various beneficial environmental impacts. The utilization of edible insects as food and feed is promising for significantly improving food security and the environmental sustainability of food.
Abstract
Rising global population and sustainable protein demand have sparked interest in unique food sources. Entomophagy, or insect consumption, presents a solution and Scarab beetles, part of the Scarabaeidae family, offer a novel food option. The comprehensive review underscores their potential as human food, with strong nutrition, low environmental impact, and the ability to ease strain on conventional agriculture. Nutritional analysis reveals rich protein content, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Scarab beetles’ beneficial fatty acid profile and healthy fats position them as a superior protein source to traditional livestock. Scarabaeidae excel in feed conversion, emit fewer greenhouse gases, and require minimal land, establishing them as an ecologically sustainable protein source. Cultural attitudes towards insect consumption vary; history exists in some regions while skepticism prevails in others. Highlighting nutritional advantages, organizing outreach, and introducing processed scarab products could enhance acceptance. The review addresses challenges including mass rearing, processing, allergens, and toxins. Evolving insect-based food regulations require cautious consideration. Success depends on multidisciplinary efforts including nutrition, environmental sustainability, cultural openness, and regulatory alignment. Continued research and collaboration are essential to fully unlock Scarabaeidae’s potential as a sustainable, nutritious food source for our growing global population.