IAEA Launches Research Project on Edible Insects and Novel Food Safety

As demand for alternative protein sources grows, the International Atomic Energy Agency recently launched a five-year coordinated research project focusing on potential safety risks associated with the production, processing, and consumption of edible insects and other novel foods, while promoting the application of nuclear, isotopic, and related analytical techniques in food safety testing.

Edible insects are gaining increasing attention. Data show that more than 2,000 species of edible insects are known globally, with approximately 2 billion people regularly consuming insects; at least 113 countries currently consume one or more insect species. In Africa, Asia, the Pacific region, and Latin America, insects have long been part of the diet for certain populations. As demand for sustainable protein rises, these foods are gradually entering broader markets. Demand in the animal feed sector is also growing, with related demand projected to increase from 10,000 tonnes to 500,000 tonnes by 2030.

However, the safety of edible insects and other novel foods still requires further research. Since insects are typically rich in protein and moisture, improper production, processing, or storage conditions may lead to microbial growth. Chemical hazards are also a concern, as insects may absorb natural toxins or agricultural chemicals from the environment and transfer them through the food chain. Other novel foods, such as those derived from cell or tissue culture, plants, microorganisms, fungi, or algae, may face similar safety risks.

The project, coordinated by the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, will investigate known and unknown hazards in wild and farmed edible insects, identify risks in other novel foods, and analyze the impact of different production and processing methods on food safety. The project will also develop, optimize, and validate nuclear, isotopic, and other related techniques for hazard detection to improve the accuracy of chemical, biological, and physical hazard analysis.

The IAEA stated that the project will be open to up to 15 research contracts and 5 or more research agreement holders, providing opportunities for Member States and relevant partners to participate.