Insects as a Renewable Source of Omega 3s?

Research on Insect Oils Reveals High Amounts of Omega 3s

A new study proposes that insect oil may be a sustainable source of omega 3 fats. In her PhD research at Wageningen University and Research Center in the Netherlands, Tzompa Sosa discovered high levels of saturated and unsaturated fats.

Noting that insect protein is already commonly used in protein powders, and that insects live off of industrial waste, Tzompa suggests that they may make a great renewable source of omega 3 fats for cat and fish food, as well as human supplements and cosmetics. Insects aren’t likely to turn up in our supplements just yet, as a risk analysis still needs to bee performed.

Fish oil currently reigns supreme as the major source of omega 3 oils. However, concerns about over fishing abound, creating interest in alternative sources.

Reuters shows a video demonstration of Sosa’s environmentally sustainable method for extracting the oil from insects on youtube. They even suggest an innovative salad dressing. Warning: this video is not for the faint of heart or those with phobias about insects.

Tell us what you think. Is the possibility of using insects as a new source of omega 3s intriguing or just gross?