Consumer Perceptions and Acceptance of Edible Insects in Slovenia

Area of Science:

• Food Science
• Consumer Behavior
• Sustainability Studies

Background:

• Edible insects offer a sustainable protein alternative.
• Understanding consumer perceptions is key to their wider adoption.
• Slovenia's diverse cultural influences provide a unique study context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate consumer perceptions and acceptance of edible insects in Slovenia.
• To identify factors influencing the adoption of insects as food and livestock feed.
• To inform strategies for increasing entomophagy acceptance.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 537 participants in Slovenia.
• Data collected in both Slovenian and English languages.
• Examined sociodemographic factors, insect preferences, and economic considerations.

Main Results:

• Moderate interest in edible insects, particularly in non-visible forms.
• Young, educated, rural individuals and men showed higher acceptance.
• Crickets, grasshoppers, and locusts were preferred over cockroaches.
• Price parity with conventional foods is crucial for market acceptance.
• Strong support for using insects as livestock feed.

Conclusions:

• Edible insects have potential as a sustainable protein source in Slovenia.
• Targeted marketing focusing on integrated forms and specific insect types is recommended.
• Policy and business strategies should consider economic factors and livestock feed applications.