Does your body need protein? Ditch chicken and beef in favor of insects

Our traditional idea of the main sources of protein is limited to animals or plants. However, there is another, almost inexhaustible resource of this vital element living next to us - insects.

SSPDaily writes: "The idea of including creatures that crawl on the ground or fly in your diet may seem strange, but this is the most rational solution when discussing environmental problems and the growth of the world's population. In 30 years, scientists say, there will be 10 billion of us, and this will create a critical situation with nutrition, as the ability to produce animal and plant protein will lag far behind the needs of the population."

Insect protein vs. meat protein

A 2016 study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that insects contain between 9.96 and 35.2 grams of protein per 100 grams, while meat contains only 16.8-20.6 grams.

The most popular and high-calorie insects eaten by people are crickets, ants, and mealworms.

Environmental benefits of eating insects

Raising insects requires significantly fewer resources than raising animals. This means a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the area allocated for production.

Thus, switching from meat to insects can be a practical step towards a greener future.

Demand for protein

The availability of protein will decrease as the population grows. And without it, our bodies will not be able to produce the amino acids necessary for life.

To ensure long-term survival, we must simultaneously increase food production and reduce carbon emissions. Insects offer a promising solution to this problem.

Toward a sustainable protein future

A team of researchers from the University of Illinois-Champaign proposes mealworms as a solution for a sustainable protein future. According to the scientists, they can replace beef, pork, and chicken in the near future.

There is no argument about tastes

Humans have been eating insects throughout history, and they still do. Today, more than two billion people, or a quarter of the world's population, eat insects. This is primarily true in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

According to the University of Illinois-Champaign, insects are a promising solution to hunger and malnutrition. They are abundant, nutritious and environmentally friendly to produce.