TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Insects are making their way onto dining tables in Singapore. Often considered an extreme culinary choice, insects have long been considered a food source. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has recently approved 16 insect species for human consumption.

In a public circular issued on July 8, the SFA declared that the import of these approved insect species and their products would be permitted.

“With immediate effect, SFA will allow the import of insects and insect products belonging to species that have been assessed to be of low regulatory concern,” as per the SFA release.

Approved Insect Species

The green light covers grasshoppers, praying mantises, and several types of beetles, among others.

These insects can be used both for human consumption and as animal feed. However, the SFA emphasized that only farmed insects are allowed, with documentary evidence required to verify their origin.

According to CNN Travel, insects that are not on the approved list will undergo further evaluation for safety before being cleared for consumption.

A Sustainable High Protein Source

Beyond Singapore, insects are a dietary staple in many cultures. From fried grasshoppers in Indonesia to grasshopper tacos in Mexico, ants, crickets, and even tarantulas in other Southeast Asian countries, these tiny creatures have been part of human diets for centuries.

Their nutritional value is undeniable, with researchers identifying over 2,100 edible insect species rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, insect farming is considered a more sustainable protein source compared to traditional livestock, as it generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

“Insects are an overlooked source of protein and a way to battle climate change,” according to the World Economic Forum’s 2022 report. “Our consumption of animal protein is the source of greenhouse gas and climate change. [Consuming] insects can offset climate change in many ways.”

Pet Food

While live insects have traditionally been sold as pet food in Singapore, the recent approval opens up new possibilities for human consumption. “As the insect industry is nascent and insects are a new food item here, SFA has developed the insect regulatory framework, which puts in place guidelines for insects to be approved as food.”

MILA NOVITA

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