[citation needed] There is potential for growth in the pet food industry, with many insect species having the ability to be used as a novel protein source.
[1] As the global population rises, there is an increasing demand for animal-based proteins that will require the use of alternative and sustainable sources for pet food as well.
A challenge that is presented when feeding companion animals with food intolerance or sensitivities is finding protein sources that will not irritate their gastrointestinal tracts.
[9] When referring specifically to dog and cat nutrition, the use of alternative protein sources must be able to deliver the ten essential amino acids (EAA) that are not synthesized from the body (including Arg, His, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Phe, Thr, Trp and Val).
[11] McCuster et al. created a study to identify amino acid composition of different insects, specifically addressing the presence of taurine in comparison to the National Research Council's (NRC) minimal requirements (MR) for the dog and cat.
[10] This study titled Amino acid content of selected plant, algae and insect species: a search for alternative protein sources for use in pet foods was published in 2014 in the Journal of Nutritional Science and provided the following table of data: The results demonstrated that all evaluated insects met the canine and feline MR for growth of the NRC for EAA and CP with exception to the black soldier fly in regards to taurine, where composition was lower than recommended.
[10] Aside from the CFIA, which makes the use of specified risk materials illegal,[12] pet food ingredients do not need to be approved by any regulatory body in Canada.
However, if manufacturers plan to expand into the U.S. market, they must adhere to regulations imposed by each state, or comply with guidelines established by the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
[13] As of August 2021, AAFCO has approved the use of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) insects in pet food - specifically for adult dogs.
In July 2017 this regulation was revised and partially lifts the ban on animal proteins, allowing insects to be included in fish feed.
[9] The table below combines the data from two studies[9][18] and summarizes the potential hazards of the top five insect species consumed by humans.