Global Entomophagy Platform (GEP)

The Global Entomophagy Platform (GEP) is an academic and outreach initiative dedicated to advancing knowledge, collaboration, and innovation around the use of insects as food and feed.

Entomophagy, the consumption of insects by humans, is already practiced in many regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. According to the FAO, insects supplement the diets of approximately 2 billion people globally, and more than 2,000 edible insect species have been reported worldwide. Insects are increasingly discussed as alternative nutrient sources because of their potential contribution to food security, circular bioeconomy, sustainable protein production, and rural livelihoods.

Why GEP?

The global food system faces increasing pressure from population growth, climate change, land-use competition, and demand for sustainable protein sources. Edible insects and insect-based ingredients may contribute to:

• Sustainable food and feed systems

• Circular use of organic side streams

• Improved nutrient security

• Rural entrepreneurship and livelihood development

• Reduced dependence on conventional protein sources

• Innovation in future food cultures

Main Objectives

GEP aims to:

1. Promote research and education on edible insects and insect-based food and feed.

2. Build global collaboration among researchers, students, industry, and communities.

3. Document traditional entomophagy practices and local knowledge.

4. Support safe, nutritious, and culturally acceptable insect-based products.

5. Encourage circular-economy approaches using insects in sustainable food systems.

Research and Collaboration Areas

The platform focuses on:

• Edible insect diversity and traditional knowledge

• Nutritional value of insects

• Insects as animal feed ingredients

• Food safety, processing, and consumer acceptance

• Circular bioeconomy and organic waste bioconversion

• Policy, education, and capacity building

• Global South–Global North research collaboration

Contact

For collaboration, research ideas, student projects, or partnership opportunities, please contact:

Dr. Prabhat Khanal
Associate Professor, Sustainable Animal Nutrition
Faculty of Biosciences and Aquaculture
Nord University, Norway
Email: prabhat.khanal@nord.no