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

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  • Biteau, Corentin
  • Bry-Chevalier, Tom
  • Crummett, Dustin
  • Ryba, Ren
  • St. Jules, Michael

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. Debugging the literature will involve producing more realistic life-cycle assessments for the particular context of commercial-scale insect farming in the Global North, which will provide policymakers and industry with the data needed to make informed decisions for a truly sustainable food system.

Suggested Citation

  • Biteau, Corentin & Bry-Chevalier, Tom & Crummett, Dustin & Ryba, Ren & St. Jules, Michael, 2024. "Bugs in the system: The logic of insect farming research is flawed by unfounded assumptions," SocArXiv 7nmzj, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:socarx:7nmzj
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/7nmzj
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    1. Christian Elleby & Hans Grinsted Jensen & Ignacio Pérez Domínguez & Thomas Chatzopoulos & Pierre Charlebois, 2021. "Insects Reared on Food Waste: A Game Changer for Global Agricultural Feed Markets?," EuroChoices, The Agricultural Economics Society, vol. 20(3), pages 56-62, December.
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