European Union Approves Cricket Powder As Component Of Flour-Based Foods Despite ‘Inconclusive’ Allergy Data

A statute permitting food Producers should incorporate cricket On Tuesday, powder will be converted into flour-based products European Union.

This decision is the result of a three-year-old review by the European Food Safety Authority concerning the use of partially defatted cricket powder. The agency concluded that the material was not suitable for mass consumption. “safe under the proposed conditions” There are many use levels.

A variety of foods, including multigrain bread, crackers and biscuits, as well as beer-like beverages, chocolates and sauces, whey powder, soups and other items, will now allow cricket powder. “intended for the general population,” According to the new regulation. Cricket One, a company asserts The insects are “nutritionally more efficient” They are more reliable and can be used as a backup. “source of alternative protein” The original application was submitted for livestock rather than the original.

This regulation also has a reference “limited published evidence on food allergy related to insects in general” Acheta domesticus, a species of house cricket, was connected to several “anaphylaxis events.” The European Food Safety Authority reached the conclusion that “consumption of this novel food may trigger sensitisation” to the insect’s proteins and recommended further study.

Evidence linking cricket powder to allergic reactions has been found “inconclusive,” The European Commission determined that the EU list of novel foods authorized by the EU should not contain any specific labeling requirements.

However, the New York Allergy and Sinus Centers have maintained their existence. found That “several allergic reactions to crickets” In the last two years, there have been reports of cases. Individuals allergic shellfish, such as lobsters, crabs, shrimp and crabs, have been reported. “may develop an allergy to crickets” Because they share many of the same protein genes. “While crickets are considered safe and healthy to eat, for those who are allergic, they pose a serious threat,” According to the group. “When ingested, crickets can cause anaphylaxis and other serious reactions.”

As many policymakers express concern about the climate change impact of meat production, there are proposals to increase the consumption of crickets and other insects. Amanda Little, professor at Vanderbilt University. asserted Acceptance of insect consumption in the EU is not an option. “translate to bugs in your burgers and mealworms in your macaroni,” Allow them to grow into feedstocks for other sources of protein.

The World Economic Forum often raised the possibility that alternative food sources could be found to lower carbon emissions.

“Insects are a credible and efficient alternative protein source requiring fewer resources than conventional breeding,” “Said one article The organization. “Studies suggest that for the same amount of protein produced, insects, mealworms in particular, require much less land than other sources of animal proteins. A study on crickets suggests they are twice as efficient in converting feed to meat as chicken.”

Another article The World Economic Forum stated that “demand for protein will exceed our ability to procure it” Even though environmentalists make similar claims repeatedly, it is likely that 2050 will be the year. disproven These changes have occurred over the last several decades.

“For our long-term survival, we’re going to need to increase our food output and decrease our carbon emissions at the same time,” According to the group. “The answer requires real innovation about food production and what we think about food.”