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Improving Food Security through Entomophagy: Can Behavioural Interventions Influence Consumer Preference for Edible Insects?

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  • Helen X. H. Bao

    (Department of Land Economy, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 9EP, UK)

  • Yuna Song

    (Department of Land Economy, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 9EP, UK)

Abstract

Compared with meats, edible insects taste just as good, are equally or even more nutritious, and have a significantly smaller environmental footprint. However, the adoption of entomophagy is still limited, particularly in Western countries. Considering the environmental benefits of entomophagy and its potential contribution to food security, it is important to understand factors that can influence the willingness to try edible insects as meat substitutes, and policy tools that can encourage the adoption of entomophagy. This research conducts online experiments to test the effect of a wide range of personal traits and a behavioural intervention combining social norm nudges and information boosts. Our findings suggest that behavioural interventions are cost-effective tools to promote the adoption of entomophagy; consumers can be nudged and educated on the basis of the environmental consequences of their individual food choices and are receptive to adopting entomophagy as a sustainable alternative to animal protein.

Suggested Citation

  • Helen X. H. Bao & Yuna Song, 2022. "Improving Food Security through Entomophagy: Can Behavioural Interventions Influence Consumer Preference for Edible Insects?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-19, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:14:y:2022:i:7:p:3875-:d:779293
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    1. Raquel P. F. Guiné & Sofia G. Florença & Ofélia Anjos & Nada M. Boustani & Cristina Chuck-Hernández & Marijana Matek Sarić & Manuela Ferreira & Cristina A. Costa & Elena Bartkiene & Ana P. Cardoso & M, 2022. "Are Consumers Aware of Sustainability Aspects Related to Edible Insects? Results from a Study Involving 14 Countries," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(21), pages 1-18, October.

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