The Nutritional Quality of Commercially Bred Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) Compared to European Union Nutrition Claims

Isabelle Noyens; Meggie Van Peer; Sarah Goossens; Carmen Ter Heide; Sabine Van Miert

doi:10.3390/insects15100769

journal article Open Access Oct 05, 2024

The Nutritional Quality of Commercially Bred Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) Compared to European Union Nutrition Claims

Isabelle Noyens

Meggie Van Peer

Sarah Goossens

Carmen Ter Heide Sabine Van Miert

Insects Vol. 15 No. 10 pp. 769 · MDPI AG

View at Publisher Save 10.3390/insects15100769

Abstract

Due to its potential as a sustainable protein source, the industrial relevance of Tenebrio molitor, known as yellow mealworm, is set to increase substantially. Given the novelty of its application in the food industry, knowledge is lacking regarding the nutritional quality of commercially farmed mealworms. This study investigated the nutritional composition of larvae from four different rearing facilities in Belgium and specifically investigated whether their nutritional profiles adhered to defined European nutrition claims (Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006). In particular, the European nutrition claims “high in protein”, “high unsaturated fat”, “high in fibre” and “rich in P, Mg, K, Zn and Mn” were applicable for all mealworm samples on a dry matter basis. On a fresh matter basis, yellow mealworms were found to be “high in protein”, “high unsaturated fat” and “low in sugar”.

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Details

Published: Oct 05, 2024
Vol/Issue: 15(10)
Pages: 769
License: View

Authors

I

Isabelle Noyens