Don Bugito makes a range of edible insect snacks, including a few sweet options like crickets covered in chocolate and Coconut Toffee-Brittle Bugitos. This snack is made with toasted mealworms that are covered in melted sugar and organic dry coconut and as Don Bugito describes—"think caramelized popcorn minus the carbs and the fat, yet loaded with protein and amino acids."
While there are many parts of the world where people eat insects, for the most part, North American consumers are new to the idea and are being enticed with sweet snacks that introduce edible insects as a sustainable source of protein, especially as an alternative to meat as the global population swells.
Insect-Infused Toffee Treats
The Coconut Toffee-Brittle Bugitos are Made with Toasted Mealworms
Trend Themes
1. Edible Insects - The concept of edible insects as a sustainable source of protein is gaining traction in North America.
2. Alternative Protein - Edible insects are becoming a popular alternative to meat as the global population grows, creating room for innovation in alternative protein sources.
3. Sweet Insect Snacks - Sweet insect snacks, like Don Bugito's Coconut Toffee-Brittle Bugitos, are introducing North American consumers to the idea of eating insects in a less intimidating way.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry can explore the production of insect-based products, including sweet snacks, to tap into the growing demand for alternative protein sources.
2. Agriculture - The agriculture industry can explore the production of insects as a food source and create opportunities to supply the growing demand for edible insects.
3. Sustainability - Businesses in the sustainability industry can explore the viability of insect-based products in promoting a sustainable food system and reducing the carbon footprint of traditional protein sources.