Orthoptera, the main source of cricket powder, is one of the most sustainable and innovative protein sources. Learn why and how you can use cricket protein powder as a complete source for protein with low environmental impact.
What’s Orthoptera?
Orthoptera is an interesting addition to the Western world’s nutritional supplement industry. It is extremely nutrient-dense, and slowly making a name for itself. Although it may sound odd or even silly to consider crickets a protein source, they are eaten daily in many countries around the globe. It is not unusual for insects to be sold at roadside food stalls in Thailand.
You don’t have to eat insects if you find the idea too extreme. It is very easy to forget exactly what cricket protein protein contains. It is processed to produce a mild tasting product that has a golden color. This makes it look like brown sugar or light brown flour.
What’s the origin of cricket protein? The cricket protein, also known as cricket flour, is made from Acheta domesticus, which is the species of house cricket. They were first cultivated in Southeast Asia, and are now commercially farmed in North America and Europe.
Each manufacturer may have a slightly different process for transforming whole crickets into powder. The whole, active crickets are harvested and kept at a cool temperature until they enter an inactive state known as “stasis”. They are then frozen and thoroughly washed. After being thoroughly inspected, they are dried for several hours before being ground to a powder.
Cricket powder must be produced according to strict guidelines. All batches are tested for toxins in order to ensure safety.
Since cricket protein powder is made entirely from whole crickets, it provides an excellent nutritional profile.
How does cricket powder benefit the environment?
The UN has suggested that global agricultural production will need to grow by 70% by 2050 to feed the growing population. This is a worrying statistic, as agriculture is the leading cause of habitat destruction. However, insects are much more efficient than other food sources such as cattle and require less water or land. They also produce fewer greenhouse gasses which is important for protecting the planet. Cricket powder is a sustainable, viable alternative to meat.
Cricket protein nutrition highlights
Cricket powder is, of course, a great source of protein. Each bug actually contains around 58-65 percent protein. This makes cricket powder comparable to eating lean beef or skinless chicken breast.
Cricket powder’s protein is especially beneficial as it is “complete”. This is because it contains all nine essential amino acids your body requires. These amino acids are essential building blocks for protein and are found in all tissues of your body. These amino acids are vital because your body cannot make them. You must consume them through your diet.
Also, crickets have a high iron content. Some sources suggest that they are richer than sirloin beef. It also contains many other nutrients, making it a superfood. This distinction sets it apart from other protein powders.
How to use the cricket protein
The great thing about cricket protein is its ability to blend into any recipe without altering the texture or taste. Powders such as whey and soy can be quite grainy and have a stronger taste.
The key is to use small amounts. You can use cricket protein in many different ways so it is easy to have a steady supply all day.
