EU relies on insects: House barbecues in food without warning!
EU relies on insects: House barbecues in food without warning!
Deutschland - The European Union plans to change the change in eating habits in its Member States. The focus is on a reduction in meat consumption and a stronger use of insects in the food industry. our Central Europe reports about these developments. The aim of this initiative is not only a more sustainable nutrition, but also the promotion of international food companies at the expense of traditional agriculture.
The Environmental Committee of the EU Parliament recently approved the use of house barbecues as food. Insect powder that is obtained from these grilling can be contained in a variety of products, including bread, pasta, soups and chocolate. Summer 2025 is to be introduced a new concept that does not provide for a special identification of the insect components in these foods. Roman Haider, a member of a MEP of the FPÖ, has sharply criticized this practice. He calls for a more comprehensive examination of the health risks, especially with regard to allergic reactions to cricket powder. Haider also calls for a clear indication of food that contains insects, similar to the system for genetically manipulated products in order to provide consumers transparent.
regulation and approval of insects as food
So far, four insects have been approved as food in the EU, as announced by of the European delegation in Germany . The first approved representative was the dried yellow mealworm in May 2021, followed by the hiking grasshopper and the house cricket. Most recently, a partially degreased powder from the house grille was permitted in January 2023. These approvals are carried out within the framework of the EU rules for new foods that were not consumed to a significant extent before May 1997. Applications are scientifically assessed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and the EU countries vote on the Commission's proposals. However,there are clear guidelines for the labeling of food that contain insects. For example, the Latin and the German name as well as the form (e.g. powder) must be clearly listed in the list of ingredients. In addition, an allergic instruction for consumers who allergic to crustaceans, molluscs and dust mites must be placed in the immediate vicinity of the list of ingredients.
advantages of insect consumption
The advantages of insect consumption are diverse and well documented. Insects are considered excellent protein source. According to of the Federal Government they have a high content of fat, protein, vitamins, fiber and mineral substances. Their protein content has comparability to meat from beef, pig or turkey and can even be higher when you are freezing. In addition, insects are much more climate -friendly in production. You need less space and water and generate lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite these advantages, edible insects in Germany have so far been little common among consumers. In 2020, a market check of the consumer advice centers only found 32 insect products in supermarkets, while online there is access to a larger variety of products. From snacks such as fried grasshoppers to insect flour and protein -rich bars, numerous options are available, whereas fresh goods or living food sectors are not offered in regular trade.
The trend towards using insects in food will revolutionize the way food in the future, and could redefine the agricultural industry in Europe in the long run.
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