Entomophagy in Latin America and its potential for sustainability and food security

Abstract

Entomophagy is often considered as an alternative and complementary practice in human food security. Recently, the exploration of edible insects has taken an increased focus on traditional practices, thus highlighting the importance of inherent folklore in the search of protein-rich food alternatives and their biofunctional properties. The present work summarizes edible insect species in Latin America, some of which are well known and commercialized species. However, most of these Latin-American species are directly extracted from the ecosystem, thereby entailing a complex interaction between sociocultural practices, biodiversity, and food requirements. Latin America possesses an extensive culture concerning the use and consumption of insect species. Therefore, previous experience regarding the mass production and commercialization of said species, along with their utilization as sustenance, constitute a sound reference frame in the exploration of wild or less consumed species, thence improving food security resources.