Rethinking insects as alternative protein: emerging environmental and animal welfare considerations

Insect farming is often presented as a sustainable alternative to traditional animal protein production, but this review – focused on commercial insect farming in high-income countries in the northern hemisphere – finds that the industry frequently falls short of its theoretical promise. The report identifies seven key challenges: outdated and regionally limited life cycle assessments; under-utilization of organic waste as feed; limited meat substitution; animal feed rather than replacement for animal agriculture; biodiversity and ecological risks; emerging animal welfare concerns; and opportunity costs.