EU allows insect powder in food

The EU has allowed the use of UV-treated insect powder in food in the EU, starting from 11/2/2025..

The decision to use insect powder in food specifically concerns the ground whole larvae of the flour beetle.

Insects as food

The flour beetles have been approved for use as food; the new approval concerns UV treatment.

According to the new regulation, the crushed and appropriately treated larvae may initially only be marketed by a French company.

People in the EU can choose what they eat and no one is forcing them to eat insects or worms, the EU Commission stated.

There are clear rules and information about this type of food, and before it is put on the market, it will undergo very strict scientific evaluations.

Consumers remain somewhat skeptical about insects as food, and according to an online survey commissioned by food and pet food manufacturer Heristo AG, older people in particular have some major reservations.