IAEA research project to develop hazard detection for edible insects

This week, the International Atomic Energy Agency announced a new coordinated research project (CRP) to improve understanding of the safety of edible insects and other novel foods and to use nuclear and related technologies to assess risks.

World food needs are rising and global food systems are evolving, motivating a search for new sources of sustainable and nutritious food. Edible insects; foods derived from cell or tissue cultures; and foods derived from microorganisms, fungi, or algae are examples of novel foods that could fill gaps but that will require research and coordination to develop food safety practices.

Edible insects have established markets in some countries. According to the IAEA, more than 2,000 edible insect species are known worldwide, and roughly 30 percent of the world's population already consume insects regularly.

They are a sustainable protein source that convert feed efficiently and have a relatively light environmental footprint, and they can be used for both human consumption and animal feed.

Some associated hazards are known. For example, insects can absorb toxins or agricultural chemicals from their surroundings and can support the growth of microbes if not properly produced, processed, and stored. Threats can vary by species, and the overall picture remains incomplete, particularly for hazards that have not yet been identified or that may interact with one another.

This IAEA research project aims to develop a more thorough understanding of the risks associated with novel foods and to develop nuclear, isotopic, and complementary techniques for hazard detection to ensure that these foods are safe, trusted, and suitable for consumption.

This area also faces policy gaps, including the need for the development of standardized controls, assessment methods, and international regulations, which, according to the IAEA, facilitate tracking trends, identifying hazards, and responding effectively to emerging risks.

According to the CRP project description, it will bring together 15-20 scientists to research these areas and produce information that can be useful for educating consumers and providing guidance for relevant decision-making.