Insect-based pet food

There are many benefits to using insects in pet goods, including implications for the environment and sustainability. There is potential for growth in the pet food industry, with many insect species having the ability to be used as a novel protein source. There are also alternate uses for insects, such as control of hypertension and antioxidant properties.

Aside from the CFIA, which makes the use of specified risk materials illegal,[12] pet food ingredients do not need to be approved by any regulatory body in Canada. However, if manufacturers plan to expand into the U.S. market, they must adhere to regulations imposed by each state, or comply with guidelines established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). These guidelines will provide country-wide acceptable ingredients, and nutritional recommendations based on research collected by the National Research Council (NRC).[13] As of August 2021, AAFCO has approved the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) insects in pet food - specifically for adult dogs.[14]

The use of insects in feed in the European Union was previously prohibited under an act called "TSE Regulation" (Article 7 and Annex IV of Regulation 999/2001) that bans the use of animal protein in animal feed. In July 2017 this regulation was revised and partially lifts the ban on animal proteins, allowing insects to be included in fish feed. This was coupled with another change that reclassified insects in the European Union (EU) catalogue of feed materials. This change specifically refers to fats and proteins from insects instead of classifying them under a broad title of animal products. Due to this change, producers now must list the species and life stage of the insect on their product.[15] Novel pet food ingredients in Europe must also follow certain stringent regulations, making approval of new ingredients a lengthy process. Novel ingredients must undergo scientific assessment before being considered safe for consumption, and a safety assessment report must be completed for ingredient authorization.[16] In addition, all pet food animal products must be considered fit for human food consumption, a measure put into place to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases, and plants that will be manufacturing the pet food must be authorized under two of the EU legislature bodies.[17] To learn more about labelling and regulations of pet food, see Pet food.

In spite of all the advantages that insect protein are provided, there are some potential challenges caused by production and safety concerns.

Mass production in the insect industry is a concern due to a lack of technology and funds to efficiently harvest, and produce insects.[6] The machinery would have to house proper enclosure for each life cycle of the insect as well as the temperature control as that is key for insect development.[6]

The industry also has to consider the shelf life of insects in companion animal products as some can have food safety concerns. Insects have the capability of accumulating potential hazards, such as contaminants, pathogens, heavy metals, allergens, and pesticides etc.[9]

The table below combines the data from two studies[9][18] and summarizes the potential hazards of the top five insect species consumed by humans.

These hazards in insects can be controlled in various ways. Allergic hazards can be labelled on the packaging to avoid consumption by susceptible consumers. Selective farming can be used to minimize chemical hazards, whereas microbial and parasitical hazards can be controlled by cooking processes.[18]

As of August 5, 2021, AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) has voted to include adult dogs in the ingredient definition for whole dried black soldier fly larvae and black soldier fly larvae meal.[19] This approval allows for the sale of BSF based dog food and treats in the United States. As of June 2023, according to a review of the market by leading BSF producer Protix there are over 43 brands worldwide marketing insect-based pet foods. 35 of these are in Europe.[20] An example of a European brand developing complete dog and cat diets and treats using BSF in European, Asian and North American markets is YORA, another example of a brand making BSF treats in the US and Canada is HOPE Pet Food.[21]