The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO.org) has published its latest report on the edible insect sector: 'Looking at edible insects from a food safety perspective. Challenges and opportunities for the sector'.

While the subject of edible insects inherently encompasses a vast array of topics, from insect ecology to various rearing practices and processing methods, the primary objective of this publication is to provide an overview of the potential food safety issues associated with the production and consumption of insects.

The farming of insects for food and feed is relatively recent and brings with it both benefits and challenges, some of which this publication explores. The regulatory frameworks that govern edible insects in various regions are discussed.

In addition, the document highlights some of the other challenges, such as research gaps and scaling up production, that the insect sector will need to overcome if it is to have a more global reach. The intended audiences for this publication are food safety professionals, policymakers, researchers, insect producers, as well as consumers.

Click here to read the publication abstract.