Functional properties of edible insects: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Food Science
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Edible insects are proposed as a sustainable alternative to meat, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Research is exploring their bioactive compounds and functional health effects in humans.
• This review examines evidence on edible insects' impact on oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolism, and weight control.

Approach:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed using specific keywords.
• 55 studies were included and categorized into in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo approaches.
• The review synthesizes findings on the functional properties of edible insects.

Key Points:

• Edible insects effectively reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in most studies.
• They modulate antioxidant status and restore enzyme activity.
• Animal studies indicate potential benefits for lipid and glucose metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Edible insects demonstrate significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Evidence suggests potential benefits for metabolic health, but more human data is required.
• Further research, particularly human dietary intervention studies, is needed to validate these functional roles.