Why Eat Crickets?
Health and Nutrition
A source of complete protein that provides numerous other health benefits.
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Vitamin B12:
GAIA Protein Powder is rich in Vitamin B12. B12 is important for DNA and red blood cell production, and nervous system health. B12 is commonly deficient in people who eat limited meat.
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Zero Sugar:
GAIA Protein Powder is 100% crickets with no added ingredients, and naturally contains zero sugar.
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Chitin:
Fiber is important for gastro-intestinal health. Crickets contain a fiber source called chitin. Evidence suggests that regular consumption of crickets may improve gut health by increasing probiotics and decreasing inflammation. These benefits of edible insects are just beginning to be fully understood and research is ongoing.
Global Significance
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO); over 2 billion people worldwide already eat insects as part of their regular diet.
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Variety:
This includes a huge variety of species with different flavours, uses and benefits.
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Source:
Insects are acquired through both farming, and gathering from the environment.
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Knowledge:
When introducing a new food into your diet, much can be learned from those who already prepare and enjoy the food!
Environment
Insect farming produces high quality food with smaller inputs and environmental impacts than other animal farming systems.
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Feed:
Crickets are highly efficient at converting feed (their food) into usable nutrients (our food). They don't regulate their body temperature, so they do not expend energy heating themselves. Crickets grow quickly and have a short life span, so eat less total food.
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Water:
Insects require less water than birds and mammals, as they have evolved to live in dry conditions. Their short life cycle also means less total water is required.
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Waste:
Crickets do not produce methane, a major greenhouse gas produced by other livestock. They produce very small amounts of nitrogenous waste (ammonia). Their poop (called "frass") is usable as a garden fertilizer.
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Land
Huge numbers of crickets can be produced in a small area, so little land is required per unit of protein produced.
Food Security
We believe that strength is found in diversity, and this applies to food systems.
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Equity:
Our world faces massive food shortages. Insect farming can play an important role in the global response going forward. Protein can be produced quickly and with relatively small inputs. Promotion of insect eating in all formats increases visibility and development of future applications to promote equitable food access.
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Pressure:
Climate change, a growing population, and changing nutrient preferences create a need for a wide variety of efficient food sources.
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Future
Canada has proven to be a global leader in producing alternative protein sources. We believe insect based protein will be part of Canada's food future.