Locust can be bought as a dried snack, frozen, as well as in powder form. In addition, manufacturers will be able to use locusts instead of meat ingredients. Special markings will be introduced for such products, which will make it easier for buyers to choose.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations defines insects as nutritious and healthy foods high in fat, protein, vitamins, fiber and minerals.
Producers have been required to remove the wings and legs of locusts if they sell the insect dried or frozen (according to a study by the European Food Safety Authority, this will help reduce the risk of constipation in consumers).
Using insects as an alternative source of protein will help the EU facilitate the transition to a more sustainable food system. Livestock is one of the main “producers” of nitrous oxide emissions into nature. Nitric oxide creates 300 times more greenhouse effect than carbon dioxide.
Locusts are not the first insect whose products are allowed in the EU. In July last year, dried yellow flour worms were allowed to be sold.