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Bugs in the system: the logic of insect farming research is flawed by unfounded assumptions

Author

Listed:
  • Corentin Biteau

    (The Insect Institut, Unit 204, Philadelphia)

  • Tom Bry-Chevalier

    (BETA - Bureau d'Économie Théorique et Appliquée - AgroParisTech - UNISTRA - Université de Strasbourg - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) - Université de Haute-Alsace (UHA) Mulhouse - Colmar - UL - Université de Lorraine - CNRS - Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique - INRAE - Institut National de Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, CEC - Chaire Economie du Climat - Université Paris Dauphine-PSL - PSL - Université Paris Sciences et Lettres)

  • Dustin Crummett

    (The Insect Institut, Unit 204, Philadelphia, University of Washington [Tacoma])

  • Ren Ryba

    (Anim Ask, Unit 10,Linen House,London)

  • Michael St. Jules

    (The Insect Institut, Unit 204, Philadelphia)

Abstract

Insect farming is frequently proposed as an emerging industry that can improve the environmental and economic sustainability of the food system. However, existing research often overlooks significant challenges. In this article, we identify three bugs in the scientific literature on insect farming: (1) the overreliance on a handful of old studies when discussing environmental impacts; (2) the pervasive assumption that insect farms will utilise food waste; and (3) the reliance on theoretical price projections that do not hold up under commercial conditions. We then discuss how promising technologies, despite their theoretical benefits, often encounter social and material challenges in practice. Debugging the literature will involve producing more realistic life-cycle assessments, which will provide policymakers and industry with the data needed to make informed decisions for a truly sustainable food system.

Suggested Citation

  • Corentin Biteau & Tom Bry-Chevalier & Dustin Crummett & Ren Ryba & Michael St. Jules, 2025. "Bugs in the system: the logic of insect farming research is flawed by unfounded assumptions," Post-Print hal-05772339, HAL.
    • Handle: RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05772339
    DOI: 10.1038/s44264-024-00042-0
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