Slow Food Deutschland criticises insect-as-food approach in Europe

In a conversation with Lebensmittelpraxis, the foundation said it believes the focus should be on promoting plant-based diets rather than insects as a sustainable source of protein.

The organisation stresses that pulses and other plant protein sources can meet nutritional needs, so the introduction of insects is not an essential alternative. They argue that the ecological footprint of insect farms is not clearly favourable, as insect farming requires constant high temperatures (25-30°C), strong lighting and a humid environment, which can increase energy use.

Slow Food prefers to see potential in the use of insect meal as animal feed, for example in aquaculture, where insect meal can replace fishmeal from wild fish. However, it points out that feeding insects with soya-based feed could contradict the sustainability goals of the food industry.

The organisation is also concerned about the risk of insects escaping. They believe that a runaway insect population due to an accident or natural disaster could have a detrimental impact on local ecosystems and agriculture.

The organisation believes that minimising food waste rather than using insects as food is key to developing a sustainable food system.