Global overview of locusts as food, feed and other uses

Abstract

The term 'locusts' refers to insect species which can aggregate into migratory swarms that cause wide-scale destruction of crops and pasture, causing significant effect to food security. This review assesses the potential of harnessing locust swarms for beneficial uses. Among 21 known locusts, ~10 species have been traditionally consumed by humans or fed to animals for millennia in 65 countries. Their nutritional composition is comparable or superior to that of conventional meat. However, insecticide residues, microbial contaminants and allergens may compromise their safety. Some countries have developed regulations on edible insects, locusts inclusive. Safe and efficient harvest of locusts could offer nutritional and revenue opportunities in many developing countries and serve as a more sustainable management method than the widespread use of insecticides.