Authentication of Insect-Based Products in Food and Feed: A Benchmark Survey

Abstract

The consumption and farming of insects are gaining global attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional protein sources. Industrial processing of insects into powders or pastes complicates species identification, raising concerns about product authenticity, food safety, and potential fraud. In Western countries, particularly in Europe, the sector is expanding under a stringent regulatory framework, especially regarding rearing substrates, which hinders economic development. This study aimed to assess the species authenticity of commercial insect-based food and feed products and detect the presence of animal-derived DNA from unauthorized substrates. A total of 119 samples (pure insect meals and processed products) were collected from various origins. Species-specific real-time PCR assays targeted Tenebrio molitor, Hermetia illucens, Alphitobius diaperinus, Acheta domesticus, Bombyx mori, and Gryllodes sigillatus, alongside assays for ruminant, porcine, and poultry DNA. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) using metabarcoding confirmed and broadened species detection. Most samples contained the declared species; however, cases of mislabeling, substitution, and cross-contamination were observed. A few insect meals contained animal DNA which could suggest potential use of prohibited substrates. These findings highlight the urgent need for standardized authentication methods and improved transparency to ensure regulatory compliance, consumer trust, and sustainable development of the insect-based sector.

Keywords: HTS; PCR; authentication; feed; food; insects; metabarcoding; regulations.