Farm Animal Welfare

Farmed Insect Welfare Standards Development

How welfare standards for farmed insects are being developed, including species-specific needs, environmental requirements, and audit frameworks.

Key Facts

Approximately 1 trillion insects are farmed annually for food and feed
IPIFF (International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed) is developing welfare guidelines
Species-specific welfare needs differ substantially across mealworms, crickets, and BSFL
Temperature, humidity, substrate, and density all affect insect welfare outcomes
Welfare auditing frameworks for insects are at an early stage of development

Welfare Considerations

The rapid growth of insect farming has outpaced the development of welfare standards. Unlike terrestrial livestock, insect welfare needs are poorly understood and highly species-specific. Developing robust, evidence-based welfare standards for commercially farmed insects requires investment in basic research, industry engagement, and regulatory frameworks that can adapt as science advances.

What You Can Do

Support insect farming companies that invest in welfare research and disclosure
Advocate for insect welfare to be included in novel food regulations
Engage with academic research on insect welfare needs and sentience