Impacts of insect consumption on human health

Edible insects represent an understudied food resource that may promote human health. They characteristically contain ample protein, healthy fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins, have been touted for their environmental benefits given efficient use. While numerous in vitro, animal, nutrient quantification studies elucidated a framework of potential health impacts entomophagy, few measured direct outcomes. This review investigates summarises existing evidence on derived exclusively from interventions. A systematic literature search was conducted three databases: SCOPUS, Web Science, PubMed. Out 1,691 initial results, only nine met the inclusion criteria. In these limited studies, were shown to to: (1) growth influence iron status when added complementary foods; (2) modulate gut microbiota with some prebiotic effects; (3) provide amino acids similar soya protein. One study also provided isolated insect-herb mixture could possibly reduce symptoms chronic obstructive pulmonary disease routine treatment. Importantly, results reveal significant lack subjects research directly measuring outcomes insect consumption. Findings included indicate are generally safe offer both beneficial neutral compared other foods. These discoveries, tandem extensive non-human support claims consumption further enhance by addressing micronutrient deficiencies or promoting There plausible properties help ameliorate complications hypertension non-communicable disease. More rigorous better controlled intervention trials fundamental confirm assess risks associated while unanswered questions regarding bioavailability, fate dietary chitin, vivo activity bioactive peptides.