Insect-based novel food: is Italy ready for the food of the future? A survey on entomophagy among Italian people

Introduction: According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), novel food is defined as food that had not been consumed to a significant degree by humans in the EU before May 15th 1997, when the first regulation of novel food came into force. This study investigates the consumption of insect-based novel food in Italy, where cultural aversions and particular disgust are major barriers to acceptance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a three-sections questionnaire shared through social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp). The questionnaire explored socio-demographic characteristics, prior knowledge of novel food, willingness to consume insect-based food, and the impact of packaging on consumer choices. Frequencies for different items were calculated and reported in tables and charts. Results: The sample showed that the majority of respondents were female (56.3%) and aged 26-35 years (24.8%). Most participants were from Southern Italy (61.8%) and had a high school diploma (45.6%). However, the majority of novel food consumers appears to be male, less than 35 years-old and born in Northern Italy. Disgust is the main obstacle towards the consumption of insects (n=261, 78.4%) while, conversely, curiosity was also significant (72.9%). Packaging had a considerable influence on consumer choices: 74.1% were willing to try chips made from cricket flour, while only 15.0% were willing to try whole insects. Conclusion: Despite strong cultural barriers, strategies such as improved information and appealing packaging could increase acceptance of insect-based foods in Italy, particularly among younger, educated consumers.