What Veterinarians Need to Know About the Newly-Emerging Field of Insects-as-Food-and-Feed

Over the last two decades, the insects-as-food-and-feed industry has rapidly emerged. Its growth is largely because insects require substantially less resources (water, food, and energy) to produce than traditional sources of animal protein, making it a sustainable alternative food option. As this industry continues to grow, veterinarians will likely be called upon to assist in identifying food safety concerns, assessing animal health, implementing biosecurity measures, and formulating/prescribing treatment protocols comparable to what we have seen with the honeybee industry and the institution of veterinary feed directives (VFDs). Similar to other agricultural markets, high animal densities and management practices put insects at high risk for infectious diseases. Veterinarians interested in working with these species will need to become knowledgeable regarding the diseases afflicting the feeder insect industry and how best to diagnose and treat pathogens of concern. Using the edible cricket industry as an example, this review will highlight health and production issues while drawing similarities to other traditional livestock operations. If the insects-as-feed-and-food industry is going to be viable, veterinary involvement will be essential to ensure that insects can be used as a safe source of food for all.