EU gives green light to larvae meal: Here’s how to find out which Hungarian products contain it

The European Commission has officially approved larvae meal as a novel food, expanding the list of edible insect-based products in the EU. Despite political opposition, the EU pushes sustainable protein alternatives amid growing food demand. While larvae meal can now be used in various products, strict regulations in some countries, such as Hungary, keep these foods separate from regular items. This ensures consumers can make informed choices about bringing insect-based products into the kitchen.

EU approves larvae meal

As Eunews.it reports, the European Commission has greenlit the inclusion of Tenebrio molitor larvae meal in the EU’s novel food catalogue, following previous approvals of edible insects like house crickets and mealworms. Despite opposition from right-wing groups in the European Parliament, the authorisation allows the marketing of UV-treated whole larvae powder starting twenty days after its official publication. French company Nutri’Earth will hold exclusive rights for five years unless another entity secures separate approval. This decision aligns with the EU’s growing push for sustainable protein alternatives, driven by the need to balance food demand with diminishing agricultural yields.

larvae meal in EU
Photo: Pixabay

Shifting European food trends?

Nutri’Earth’s application dates back over five years, with the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) confirming in mid-2023 that larvae meal is safe for consumption in various food products, including bread, dairy, and processed potato items. A recent attempt to block its approval was defeated in the EU Parliament’s ENVI committee, highlighting ongoing political divisions over edible insects. With over a dozen applications for new insect-based foods under EFSA’s review, the introduction of larvae meal marks another step in Europe’s shift towards sustainable, protein-rich food sources.

Insect-based products sold separately in Hungary

While the European Commission promotes larvae meal and other insect-based proteins as novel foods, strict regulations in some countries, like Hungary, ensure they won’t be mixed with regular food products. According to Sokszínű Vidék, in Hungary, any food containing insect protein, including larvae meal, must be sold on separate shelves, preventing accidental consumption. Despite approvals for insects like the yellow mealworm and house cricket in various food products, including bread, dairy, and pasta, concerns remain among consumers. However, these regulations allow those hesitant about insect-based foods to easily avoid them while supporting the EU’s push for sustainable protein alternatives.

A great source of protein?

As IOL writes, larvae meal is packed with essential amino acids, iron, and healthy fats. In addition, it provides more protein per gram than beef or chicken, making it ideal for muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. Unlike traditional livestock farming, insect farming requires minimal land, water, and feed while producing significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions. This makes larvae meal a sustainable solution to food security challenges, particularly in regions like South Africa, where protein deficiency remains a concern. With its versatility in flours, protein powders, and snacks, larvae meal offers a practical and environmentally responsible way to meet global nutrition demands.

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