The Rise of Insect-Based Dog Food: A Green(ish) Revolution
- The Earth Pup
- Sep 28
- 6 min read
"A cricket in the house brings good luck to all within." – Traditional Folklore
There’s a new buzz in the air, and perhaps in (or soon to be in) your pup’s food dish.
That buzz? Insect-based dog food.
Insect-based dog food, which uses farmed insects like crickets, black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), or mealworms as primary protein sources, has rather recently emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional meat-based diets for dogs. The concept started to gain traction in the mid-2010s amid rising concerns over the environmental impact of pet food production.
UK-based Percuro appears to have been one of—if not the—pioneering companies for insect-based dog foods, launching in 2015. Prior to 2015, insects were occasionally used in experimental feeds or niche treats, but it was 2015 that saw the launch of dedicated commercial lines.
While commercial availability may have initially been limited to treats and regional markets, it’s now expanded to full kibble and wet foods. By 2018, at least 12 brands were available in Europe, and the market has since grown to over 43 global brands as of 2023, with significant U.S. expansion following regulatory approvals in 2021 (for BSFL) and 2024 (for mealworms).
Yes, BSFL and mealworms (and by some, crickets) are now being hailed as sustainable, nutritious, and even hypoallergenic alternatives to traditional meat proteins for your pup.
But what does the science actually say? Let’s dig into the research to separate hype from hard facts.
The Nutritional Power of Insects
When it comes to nutrition, insects hold their own against traditional protein sources—and sometimes even outperform them.
Protein Quality
A 2014 Journal of Nutritional Science study found that insects meet or exceed the National Research Council’s amino acid requirements for dog growth. For example, BSFL provide 18–20% more digestible protein than soy and nearly match poultry, with in vivo trials showing 85–92% protein digestibility—on par with chicken meal.
Healthy Fats & Energy
BSFL oil is rich in lauric acid (20–30%), a medium-chain triglyceride known for supporting energy metabolism and gut health while reducing harmful bacteria. Crickets bring balanced omega-3 to omega-6 ratios, helping maintain healthy skin and coat.
Vitamins & Minerals
From B-vitamins like riboflavin to iron levels reaching 80 mg/kg in BSFL, insects deliver a nutrient punch. That said, some recipes still require fortification for a fully balanced diet.
Fiber from Chitin
The exoskeleton from insects offers 2–10% insoluble fiber, acting as a natural prebiotic and aiding digestion—but too much (>5%) can affect taste and stool quality.
Health Benefits for Your Dog
The benefits of insect-based dog food go far beyond basic nutrition.
Gut Health & Digestibility
Studies show 90%+ digestibility with no extra gas or loose stools compared to beef diets. Chitin and antimicrobial peptides even suppress harmful bacteria like Clostridium perfringens (can cause diarrhea) while boosting good gut flora such as Lactobacillus.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Unlike beef or chicken (responsible for 10–15% of dog food allergies), insects trigger reactions in less than 1% of cases—making them a top alternative for sensitive pups.
Weight & Cognitive Support
Medium-chain fats help overweight dogs manage lipids and may support brain health in older dogs.
Oral Health & Palatability
Fatty acids reduce plaque, and acceptance trials show dogs eat 95%+ of BSFL kibble, often preferring it to lamb.
Sustainability: A Lighter Pawprint
Pet food production accounts for 25–30% of animal agriculture’s environmental impact, but insects flip that script.
Impact Category | Insect-Based (BSFL/Crickets) | Reduction vs. Beef/Chicken |
|---|---|---|
Land Use | 0.2–1 m²/kg protein | 90–99% less |
Water Use | 1–10 L/kg protein | 99% less |
GHG Emissions | 1–14 kg CO₂eq/kg protein | 80–95% less |
Feed Conversion Ratio | 1.5–2 kg feed/kg protein | 50–70% more efficient |
Insects thrive on food scraps, need no pesticides (!), and release minimal methane. A 2022 Scientific Reports study estimated that swapping U.S. pet diets to insect protein could cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50–70%.
Insect vs. Traditional Dog Foods
Some key points to consider when stacking up insect-based dog food against more traditional, meat-based foods:
Aspect | Insect-Based Foods | Traditional Meat-Based Foods |
|---|---|---|
Nutrition | High protein & fiber; some taurine gaps (need to supplement) | High protein; taurine naturally present |
Allergies | Hypoallergenic (<1%) | Higher allergy risk (10–15%) |
Sustainability | 80–99% smaller footprint | Higher land, water, & emissions use |
Cost | Premium ($50–80/25lb bag) | More affordable ($20–50/25lb bag) |
Taste | Most dogs seem to love it, but take time to transition | Familiar flavors |
Things to Keep in Mind
Taurine levels in BSFL diets need supplementation. Taurine is an essential amino acid for dogs that supports heart health, vision, immune function, and overall well-being. If not added to the food, supplements are commercially available for you to pick up.
Long-term studies (>6 months) are limited but growing. Be on the lookout for—and open to—new research findings.
Sourcing standards matter to avoid contaminants like heavy metals. Look for accreditations and currency of standards adhered to.
Should You Try It?
If you’re eco-conscious, have a pup with allergies, an overweight pup, or want to diversify your dog’s diet, insect-based foods are worth considering. Most sites recommend you start with a 20–30% mix into your dog’s current diet to ensure palatability and easy digestion. And as always, consult your vet—especially for pup-specific and breed-specific needs or health conditions.
With regulatory approvals by AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) for BSFL (2021) and mealworms (2024), and more research emerging every year, insect-based dog foods are no longer just a trend—they’re part of a sustainable future for pets and the planet.
Ket to note: as of this writing, crickets are not defined by, nor do they appear to have regulatory approval from, either the FDA or AAFCO for their use in dog food. It is still considered experimental.
Where to Find Insect-Based Dog Food
You’ve read the hype and deciphered the facts: insect-based foods, using protein from mealworms or BSFL, offer high digestibility (85-95%) and sustainability (80-99% less land/water than meat). They excel for hypoallergenic needs (<1% allergy risk) and gut health.
Now where to find them? Here are a few of the top-rated brands to research and perhaps order up for pup to sample:
Yora (From the UK to Oakland, CA and beyond!)
Key Features:
BSFL (50%+ protein); omega fats for skin/joints; small kibble for seniors.
Price Range:
Food starting at around $22 for 4 pounds, treats from around $8
Where to Buy:
Customer Review Highlights:
From the Yora website: " After buying the first bag, it was like a miracle. My dog’s skin stopped being itchy and flaky, she stopped gnawing her paws, she slept more at night, was active during the day, and wanted to play and walk for longer.” " Gizmo is a fussy eater, that is until we discovered Yora. The variety of insect-based treats and food is brilliant for every occasion! To summarize: sustainable, healthy & delicious." “My advice is to order the food well in advance since the shipping may take longer than expected.”
From X Posts: "My senior dog’s mobility improved," but experiences with limited U.S. stock causes some to voice frustration.
Wilder Harrier (Montreal, Canada)
Key Features:
BSFL (38% protein); lauric acid for anti-inflammatory benefits; ideal for itchy skin.
Price Range:
Food starting at $55 USD for 5kg, treats from around $8 USD
Where to Buy:
Customer Review Highlights:
From Wilder Harrier's website (4.8/5, 400+ reviews): "Saved my dog’s skin allergies; smells great." “Her fur got thicker and she is full of energy!” "Niche brand, hard to find locally."
From X Posts: "Best for sensitive dogs," though high comparative cost noted by some.
Chippin (Arlington, VA)
Key Features:
Cricket-based (35% protein); rehydratable; waste-fed crickets for sustainability.
Price Range:
Food starting at around $58 for 3.5 pounds of dry mix that makes 10.5 pounds of wet food, treats from around $24 for a 2-pack
Where to Buy:
Customer Review Highlights:
From Amazon (4.4/5, 700+ reviews): "My dog’s digestion improved; loves the texture." "Smaller portions than expected."
From X Posts: "Eco-win, great for small dogs," but in today's world of order today, receive today, some report slow delivery.
Jiminy's (Berkeley, CA)
Key Features:
Cricket protein (40% min); chitin for gut; treats/wet options; high palatability.
Price Range:
Food starting at around $22 for 3.5 pounds, treats from around $11.50
Where to Buy:
Jiminys.com (there is also a retail store locator on their website if you want to support a local retailer), Chewy.com, Amazon.com
Customer Review Highlights:
From Chewy (4.7/5, 1,500+ reviews): "Cleared my dog’s ear infections; he loves the taste." "Eco-friendly, but pricey for large breeds."
From Amazon (4.3/5, 470+ reviews): Customers find this cricket-based dog food to be excellent, with positive feedback about its protein content, health benefits, and environmental sustainability. Moreover, they report it's not aggravating their dogs' allergies, with one customer noting significant improvements in their Chihuahua's skin condition. However, customers disagree on the food's smell, and some mention their dogs refuse to eat it. Additionally, opinions on value for money are mixed, with some finding it reasonably priced while others consider it expensive.
From X Posts: "Allergy relief is real; my pup devours it," though some note smaller bag sizes.
And so, it would appear that one rather smart terrier who loves to pounce and capture upon crickets in the back yard was definitely onto something!
Bon appétit~
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