Insect-based Pet Food Market Projected To USD 11.5 Bn By 2033

Updated · Dec 13, 2024

Market.us News, we strive to bring you the most accurate and up-to-date information by utilizing a variety of resources, including paid and free sources, primary research, and phone interviews. Learn more.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Key Takeaways
Insect-based Pet Food Statistics
Emerging Trends
Use Cases
Major Challenges
Market Growth Opportunities
Recent Development
Conclusion

Introduction

The global Insect-based Pet Food Market is gaining significant traction, driven by growing consumer awareness about sustainability and animal nutrition. As pet owners increasingly seek eco-friendly and protein-rich alternatives for their pets, insect-based ingredients are becoming a viable choice.

The market size for Insect-based Pet Food is projected to grow substantially, reaching an estimated value of USD 11.5 Billion by 2033, up from USD 4.6 Billion in 2023. This represents a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.6% during the forecast period from 2024 to 2033.

The demand for insect-based pet food is being fueled by a variety of factors. First, the rising concerns over the environmental impact of traditional meat production methods have pushed consumers toward more sustainable pet food options. Insects, such as crickets and black soldier flies, require fewer resources like water and land compared to conventional livestock, making them an attractive alternative.

Furthermore, insects offer high-quality protein and essential nutrients for pets, which makes them a nutritious choice for pet food manufacturers. Market opportunities are emerging in regions with a growing pet adoption rate and an increasing focus on eco-conscious products. As consumers become more willing to try insect-based products, the market is expanding with new product launches, innovations in insect farming, and increasing investment in sustainable pet food solutions.

Additionally, the growing popularity of pet health and wellness trends, such as grain-free and hypoallergenic diets, has helped drive the demand for insect-based options. The future of this market looks promising, with significant growth potential in both developed and developing economies, positioning it as a leading segment in the pet food industry.

Key Takeaways

The Global Insect-based Pet Food Market is expected to be worth around USD 11.5 Billion by 2033, up from USD 4.6 Billion in 2023, and grow at a CAGR of 9.6% from 2024 to 2033.
Conventional insect-based pet foods dominate the market, holding a 53.5% share.
Crickets are the most used source in insect-based pet foods, representing 45.4%.
Kibble or dry products are prevalent, comprising 28.3% of the insect-based pet food market.
Dogs are the primary consumers of insect-based pet food, accounting for 53.2%.
Dry food types command a substantial segment, with a 45.4% market share.
Pouches are the leading packaging type in the market, capturing 39.4%.
Hypermarkets and supermarkets are the chief distribution channels, holding a 38.4% share.
In North America, the insect-based pet food market is valued at USD 2.2 billion, holding a 47.8% share.

Insect-based Pet Food Statistics

Environmental Benefits of Insect-Based Pet Food

The deforestation caused by the expansion of pastures and fodder crops generated 8% of the total anthropogenic CO2 emissions.
Insects can also account for up to 6% of the diet of wild cat species.
83% of dog and cat owners in the United States say they are prepared to feed their pets insect-based ingredients.
Insects can also account for up to 6% of the diet of wild cat species.
The insects are mainly rendered into high protein meal 55% protein with an average of 80% digestibility and fats, or made into a puree which is stored frozen.

Consumer Adoption of Insect Pet Food

The ingredients boast the highest protein content in the insect market up to 71%, low ash content of less than 5%, and linolenic acids.
Cattle breeding is also associated with the production of greenhouse gases, especially methane. In total, livestock farming is responsible for 12% of greenhouse gas emissions. Water consumption to produce 1 kg of beef is approximately 15,000 liters.
Insect meal contains a high level of protein between 33-63% and the amino acid profile is similar to that of fish and poultry meal.
Therefore, the first production step is drying, which reduces the water content in the raw material to 5-10%.
We are told for example that it takes 112 litres of water to produce a single gram of beef protein. We’re also reliably informed that it takes 34 liters of water to produce a gram of chicken protein.

Nutritional Quality of Insect-Based Pet Food

Dog nutrition is mainly based on dry food, and the industry is still growing; the annual growth rate of the pet food industry is 2.6%.
Insects can also account for up to 6% of the diet of wild cat species.
It was shown that crickets can be effectively produced on a 22% protein diet to improve their nutritional value.
The literature data indicate that BSFL consists, on average, of 40–44% crude protein.
It was shown that the crude protein contents in BSF, Tenebrio molitor larvae, and cricket are 42.0%, 38.3%, and 32.6%.

Sustainability and Insect-Based Diets for Pets

The crude fat levels range from 14.41 to 37.1% and are usually higher in larvae than in imago, as is the case with mealworms.
Mealworm larvae consist of 37.10% fat, while imago consists of 14.88% fat.
In insects, SFA levels range from 28.20 to 49.60% fatty acids and are comparable to the SFA contents of conventional protein sources, such as chicken breast with 43.14% fatty acids.
BSF larvae are particularly rich in C12:0 acid, which constitutes 28.6% of the total fatty acids.
The meals indicated that the CP varied from 45 to 58% among the four BSFL, 67% for the cricket meal, and varied from 51 to 56% for the two mealworms.

Emerging Trends

Growing Popularity of Sustainable Pet Food: As sustainability becomes a key concern for consumers, insect-based pet food is gaining popularity due to its eco-friendly nature. Insects require fewer resources like water and land compared to traditional livestock, making them a sustainable alternative for pet food production.
Health-Conscious Pet Owners Driving Demand: Pet owners are increasingly focusing on the health and nutrition of their pets. Insects provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, making them an attractive option for health-conscious consumers seeking hypoallergenic and easily digestible pet food.
Advancements in Insect Farming Technologies: Innovative farming methods, such as vertical farming and automation, are improving the efficiency and scalability of insect production. These advancements are helping reduce costs and ensure a steady supply of insect-based ingredients, making it easier for pet food manufacturers to adopt insect protein in their products.
Expansion of Product Varieties: The insect-based pet food market is diversifying with the introduction of a variety of products, from dry kibble and wet food to treats and supplements. This variety helps cater to different pet preferences and dietary needs, expanding the appeal of insect-based products to a wider audience.
Increased Investment and Partnerships: As the market grows, there is a rise in investment and strategic partnerships between pet food companies and insect farming businesses. These collaborations are aimed at scaling production, improving product offerings, and driving innovation in insect-based pet food, ensuring long-term industry growth.

Use Cases

Eco-Friendly Pet Food for Environmentally Conscious Consumers: Insect-based pet food serves as a sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based products. Consumers concerned about the environmental impact of livestock farming are increasingly turning to insect protein, which has a much smaller carbon footprint, reduced water usage, and less land requirement for production.
Hypoallergenic Diets for Pets with Food Sensitivities: Insects like crickets and black soldier flies are a novel protein source, making them an ideal option for pets with food allergies or sensitivities. They provide a hypoallergenic diet that can reduce allergic reactions and digestive issues common with more traditional protein sources like beef or chicken.
High-Protein Options for Active Pets: Insect-based pet food is rich in high-quality protein, making it suitable for active and athletic pets. Whether for working dogs or high-energy cats, insect protein offers the nutrition needed for muscle repair and energy, supporting better physical performance and overall health.
Nutrient-Rich Diet for Senior Pets: Older pets with specific dietary needs can benefit from insect-based pet food, as insects are packed with essential nutrients like amino acids, omega fatty acids, and minerals. This makes them an excellent choice for senior pets requiring a nutrient-dense, easily digestible diet for maintaining health.
Pet Food for Pet Owners Seeking Clean-Label Products: With increasing demand for clean-label products, insect-based pet food offers an appealing solution. Free from artificial additives, preservatives, and antibiotics, insect protein provides a more natural and transparent ingredient profile, aligning with pet owners’ desire for healthier, simpler food choices for their pets.

Major Challenges

Consumer Acceptance and Awareness: One of the major challenges for the insect-based pet food market is consumer reluctance. Many pet owners are still unfamiliar with the benefits of insect protein and may find it difficult to transition from traditional pet food options. Educating consumers is key to overcoming this barrier.
Regulatory Barriers and Approval: The insect-based pet food market faces challenges related to regulatory approval in various regions. Different countries have varying standards for the use of insects in food products, and securing approval for insect protein as a pet food ingredient can be a lengthy and complex process.
Supply Chain and Scalability Issues: Insect farming is still an emerging industry, and scaling up production to meet growing demand presents logistical challenges. Ensuring a stable and cost-effective supply of insects while maintaining product quality is a hurdle that manufacturers must overcome to support large-scale market growth.
Cost Competitiveness: Despite the sustainability benefits, insect-based pet food can be more expensive than traditional meat-based options. The costs associated with insect farming, production, and processing still need to be reduced to make insect-based pet food more accessible to a broader range of consumers and pet owners.
Flavor and Acceptance by Pets: While insect-based pet food offers nutritional benefits, some pets may not readily accept the taste or texture of insect protein. Manufacturers must focus on enhancing flavors and palatability to ensure that pets enjoy the food, which is crucial for the widespread adoption of insect-based diets.

Market Growth Opportunities

Growing Demand for Sustainable Products: As consumers become more eco-conscious, the demand for sustainable pet food options is rising. Insect-based pet food offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional animal protein sources, making it an attractive choice for consumers looking to reduce their pets’ environmental impact.
Expansion into New Geographies: The insect-based pet food market is poised for growth in emerging markets where pet adoption is increasing rapidly. As more people in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America adopt pets, there is significant potential for introducing insect-based products to these new and growing markets.
Innovations in Insect Farming Techniques: Advancements in insect farming technologies, such as vertical farming and automation, present opportunities to lower production costs and increase output. These innovations can help scale up the supply of insect protein, making it more affordable and accessible for pet food manufacturers and consumers alike.
Product Diversification and Premium Offerings: As consumer preferences evolve, there is room for expanding the range of insect-based pet food products. From premium formulations targeting specific pet health needs, like hypoallergenic or grain-free diets, to treats and supplements, diversification can drive growth and meet the demands of niche markets.
Collaborations and Strategic Partnerships: Partnerships between insect farms and established pet food brands offer opportunities to enhance production capabilities and gain market access. Collaborating with well-known pet food manufacturers can help build consumer trust and drive broader adoption of insect-based products.

Recent Development

Agri Protein Holdings Ltd focuses on producing high-quality insect protein for pet food by using organic waste as a feedstock for insects. Their sustainable farming processes contribute to reducing food waste and supporting eco-friendly pet food solutions. The company is known for its innovation in the insect-based protein sector.
Beta Hatch is a leader in insect farming, primarily focusing on black soldier flies to produce protein for pet food and animal feed. They emphasize sustainability through innovative farming methods and are positioning themselves as a major player in the growing insect-based protein market.
Bühler AG provides advanced processing technologies for insect farming. They specialize in developing efficient and scalable systems for insect protein production, helping companies in the pet food industry scale up their operations while reducing environmental impact, particularly in terms of water and land usage.
Ennoble is a company involved in insect protein production using black soldier flies. They provide sustainable, high-quality insect protein that supports the pet food industry by offering an alternative protein source that is both nutritious for pets and environmentally friendly.
Enterra is focused on producing insect-based ingredients for both pet food and livestock feed. They utilize black soldier fly larvae to create sustainable protein, fats, and other nutrients, aiming to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly and nutritious pet food options.
Endocycle specializes in insect farming, particularly black soldier fly larvae, to create protein and other nutrients for pet food. Their focus on sustainability and reducing waste in the pet food supply chain makes them an important player in the insect-based protein market.
Entobel Holdings PTE is a Singapore-based company that produces insect protein for the pet food and animal feed industries. They use sustainable farming techniques and work on creating efficient systems to supply high-quality, eco-friendly protein sourced from black soldier fly larvae.
Healy Biotech focuses on developing insect protein solutions for pet food and animal feed. By utilizing insects as a protein source, the company aims to reduce the environmental footprint of traditional meat production, offering an alternative that is both sustainable and nutritionally rich for pets.
Innova Feed is a global leader in producing insect protein using black soldier flies. Their focus is on providing high-quality, sustainable protein for the pet food industry. With state-of-the-art farming technology, they aim to meet the growing demand for alternative protein sources in pet nutrition.
Innovafeed SAS is a French company producing insect-based proteins primarily derived from black soldier flies. They offer solutions for pet food manufacturers seeking sustainable protein alternatives, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and the overall environmental impact of pet food production.
Jiminy’s, LLC is a U.S.-based company that specializes in creating pet food with sustainable insect protein. They offer dog treats and food products made from crickets, providing a nutrient-rich, allergen-free alternative to traditional pet food ingredients. Their products are focused on environmental sustainability and pet health.
Mars Incorporated has entered the insect-based pet food market through its venture into sustainable protein sourcing. The company is leveraging insect protein to create eco-friendly pet food options that align with growing consumer demand for sustainability and better pet nutrition, supported by Mars’ global reach and expertise.
Nestlé S.A. is exploring the use of insect-based proteins for pet food as part of its sustainability strategy. Through its various pet food brands, Nestlé is working to develop alternative protein sources to meet consumer demand for more eco-friendly and nutritionally balanced pet food options.
Next Protein is an innovative company that produces insect-based protein for pet food, focusing on black soldier fly larvae. They are dedicated to offering a more sustainable and nutritionally complete protein alternative for the growing pet food market, contributing to a shift toward eco-conscious pet nutrition.
nextProtein SA is a French company producing high-quality insect protein for pet food, particularly from black soldier flies. Their solutions are aimed at offering a sustainable alternative to traditional animal protein, which aligns with growing environmental concerns and consumer preferences for sustainable pet food products.
Protix is a leading insect protein producer that supplies sustainable, high-quality protein derived from black soldier flies for the pet food industry. Their innovative production methods focus on minimizing environmental impact and providing an alternative to traditional animal-based proteins, positioning them as a market leader in sustainability.
Purina, part of Nestle, is experimenting with insect protein in pet food, exploring its benefits for both sustainability and pet health. Purina’s involvement in insect-based pet food is part of its broader initiative to create more sustainable and nutritionally balanced options for pets.
Scout & Zoe offers natural, sustainable pet food made from insect protein, focusing on the health benefits of their products, which are designed to be easy on pets’ digestive systems. They are positioning themselves as an eco-conscious alternative in the growing market for sustainable pet food.
Symply Pet Foods Limited offers a range of pet food products that include insect protein as a sustainable ingredient. Their focus is on providing nutritious and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pet foods, catering to a growing number of pet owners who prioritize sustainability and high-quality nutrition.
Ynsect is a leader in the insect-based protein industry, using advanced technology to farm insects for sustainable pet food. By producing high-quality protein from insects like the black soldier flies, Ynsect supports the growing demand for alternative, eco-friendly pet food ingredients while reducing the carbon footprint of pet nutrition.
Ynsect (SAS) is a French company that produces insect-based proteins for the pet food industry. Their use of black soldier fly larvae to create sustainable and high-nutrient protein ingredients supports the growing demand for environmentally responsible pet food, helping meet both consumer preferences and global sustainability goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Insect-based Pet Food Market is experiencing strong growth driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable, nutritious, and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional pet food. As the market expands, it is poised to address key concerns such as environmental impact, food allergies, and pet health. With a projected market size of USD 11.5 Billion by 2033, companies are capitalizing on innovations in insect farming and product diversification to meet the needs of health-conscious pet owners. While challenges like consumer acceptance, regulatory hurdles, and cost competitiveness remain, the opportunities in emerging markets, product innovation, and strategic partnerships offer a promising future. As consumer awareness continues to rise, the insect-based pet food sector is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pet nutrition.