Mealworms are set to enter European cuisine as the European Commission has approved the sale of powder made from Tenebrio molitor larvae. This authorization, granted to French start-up Nutri’Health, allows the powder to be used in various food products, including bread and dairy. The approval followed a safety assessment confirming its health safety. Consumers will be informed through clear labeling, particularly regarding allergenic risks, as the trend towards sustainable insect-based ingredients grows in Europe.
Mealworms: A New Ingredient in European Cuisine
Could mealworms soon become a staple on our dinner plates? The European Commission has recently given its green light for the sale of a powder derived from Tenebrio molitor larvae, commonly known as mealworms. This regulation was adopted on January 20, and as of February 10, it will be available for incorporation into various food products, including bread and fruit compotes. While this news has sparked considerable buzz across media platforms, it is essential to note that the authorization specifically pertains to a single entity – a French start-up named Nutri’Health.
The Journey of Mealworm Powder Approval
Nutri’Health initially sought approval in 2019 for its “whole UV-treated Tenebrio molitor larvae powder” intended for food applications. Following this request, the European Commission consulted the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which provided a scientific assessment in 2023. The findings indicated that under the proposed usage conditions, the whole UV-treated mealworm powder does not pose any health risks.
Consequently, the Commission has granted Nutri’Health a five-year authorization to utilize this mealworm powder in various food products. This powder can be incorporated into a range of items, including breads and cakes (up to 4% of the total composition), pasta (3.5%), processed potato products (3%), and dairy products (1%).
Nonetheless, consumers need not worry about unwittingly consuming mealworm powder. The regulation mandates that the presence of this ingredient must be explicitly stated on food packaging, labeled as “whole Tenebrio molitor larvae powder (mealworm) treated with UV.” Additionally, individuals allergic to shellfish or dust mites should be aware that consuming mealworms may pose risks, and this allergenic potential must also be clearly mentioned on product labels.
Insects, recognized for their protein and vitamin content, are increasingly being considered as a sustainable food option. Their production is known to generate significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional meat sources. This isn’t the first instance of insect-based ingredients gaining market approval within the European Union. In 2021, mealworms were already sanctioned for sale in the form of dried larvae, suitable for direct consumption or as components in protein-rich products, biscuits, and vegetable-based dishes.
Moreover, in 2023, the Commission also endorsed the use of partially defatted house cricket powder in various food items, including bread, cereal bars, sauces, and chocolate treats. Concerns have been raised by some officials, such as LR senator Laurent Duplomb, regarding the potential for insects to be included in the French diet without public awareness. However, European regulations stipulate that the inclusion of cricket flour must be disclosed in ingredient lists and highlighted as an allergen.