Paving the way to a more sustainable future of food.
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About Us
We exist to connect those in the farmed insect protein sector
The UK Edible Insect Association is the UK’s leading trade association for the edible insect industry, supporting insect farmers, food product developers, retailers, researchers, and curious individuals.
Our vision is a future where insects are a recognised ingredient in balanced, nutritious diets, insect farming is widespread, turning organic waste into valuable resources, and enterprises across the UK sector grow and flourish.
We provide members with essential support, including regulatory compliance, access to an industry-led community, exclusive events, retail opportunities, and promotional activities. We also ensure the sector is represented, shaping policies and legislation to serve your business needs.
Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) for farmed insect protein research
Submissions close on 31 December 2024
24-25 April 2025, University of Nottingham
Farmed Insect Protein Conference -
AKA Nest 1.0
Nest 1.0 will provide an opportunity for farmers, restaurateurs, researchers, investors, academics and more to examine the world of insect protein more closely, while enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts.
We'll use our deep connections with research and regulatory organisations to smooth the path for new entrants to the sector, as well as providing a platform for innovation and collaboration.
Who are you?
Something for everyone
Farm
Insects can be farmed alongside traditional agriculture: meat, poultry. arable, aquaculture and horticulture as part of a shift to more regenerative and sustainable food production methods.
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Insects are livestock that offer a way to diversify income streams and harness the potential of existing organic by-products. This sector will have an intrinsic place in the UK’s future farm to fork landscape.
Feed
As a nation of animal lovers, pet food ranges from gourmet feasts tasted by humans to vegan offerings that can leave naturally omnivorous animals struggling as they stray from their natural diets.
Many pet owners are keen to find alternatives to meat. The protein content, availability, and cost-effectiveness from both a sustainability and a practicality point of view - mean insects can fill that gap.
Fork
Around 10% of British people have tried edible insects. Nearly 100% of those people who have tried insect protein before would be willing to eat it again.
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Globally, agriculture is limited by increasing scarcity and diminishing quality of land and water. The time for change is here. Our members' products range from cricket mince to
cakes to protein bars and more. The potential for this exciting alternative protein is endless.
Facilitator
Insects will not be viable within our current food chain without considerable legislative and regulatory change. We're already working with Government to step up to the challenges ahead.
We also recognise the diverse organisations that make up the modern supply chain, from veterinarians keeping herds healthy, to tech experts driving innovation, to talent specialists recruiting for green jobs of the future. Together, we build!
Innovator
If you are thinking ahead on sustainability - join us! The farmed edible insect protein sector offers both a new and exciting area of investment, but also gives those responsible for their organisation’s corporate social responsibility actions opportunities, incredible scope for development.
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Get involved as researchers and business work together, boosting the British economy. Rather than eclipsing the traditional, this sector will allow for gradual, collaborative diversification.
Educator
Children are the least likely to be worried about trying a bug for their lunch – at least that that’s what we’ve found at numerous events and taste tests. We are ready to spread the word about farmed insect protein in schools, colleges, universities – whoever you are, if you’re curious and want to know more, just get in touch with us!
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We also do the serious stuff, working as a trusted broker between industry and academia, working hard to facilitate beneficial partnerships both research-based and in enterprise.