Your mind probably thinks about those containers of powder that are made from whey, soy, or pea proteins when the subject of protein powder crosses into your thoughts. Be that as it may, there has been an increase in the amount of people turning to insects, and their derived proteins, including worms for protein. Although some may find it unappealing this non-traditional protein source seems to be on the rise in the worldwide market. Today we will try to understand if such a thing as a worm-containing protein exists and why it may not be so strange.
Insect Protein – Concept
The thought of putting worms into protein powder is not really that strange after all. Insects including mealworms are available and a high source of quality protein which can easily be added as part of the human diet without posing any threat or harm to the lives of organisms involved in such an activity. For instance, mealworms contain approximately 50% proteins just like in the other regular animals’ sources e., chicken and beef while they also have essential amino acids, good fats, vitamins, iron, and zinc among others.
Insects are consumed by over 2 billion people across the globe especially in Asia, Africa, and Latin America as per FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) reports. This increasing consumption of insects as food has led many companies to consider new ways through which such bugs could be integrated into diets or feeding systems of people living in the West including powdery form by processing them into proteins.
The Worm Myth: What You Need to Know
Eating worms or any other sources of proteins may not be taken lightly by some. Regardless, one should be aware that protein powders are not all the same. Although a few non-traditional protein options such as insects and their likes (e.g., mealworms) which can easily be sourced from a biological store because they are rich in nutrients are becoming more popular because they are environmentally friendly and nutritionally dense; they still do not serve as the main source of protein in most markets.
Common Protein Powder Sources
Whey Protein: This is arguably the most popular type, derived from milk.
Casein Protein: Another milk-based protein, known for its slow-digesting properties.
Soy Protein: A plant-based alternative that is highly selected by vegetarians and vegans.
Pea Protein: Another plant-based option that is on the rise due to its ease on the stomach and low allergy risk.
Egg Protein: It consists of proteins obtained from egg whites with high biological value.
The Rise of Insect-Based Protein
People celebrate insect-eating-based protein powder as a better option for taking care of the usual
problems with popular protein supplements because; it has lower
Environmental Impact: Comparative analysis studies prove that rearing mealworm consumes much less fresh water volume, and occupies little space on land than growing grain for livestock feed alone. The former is also eco-friendly since it releases up to ninety percent less methane gas compared to the latter hence; appealing option among green customers.
Nutritional Value: A complete protein profile containing all nine essential amino acids can be found in this kind of powder. It therefore serves well the needs of individuals who engage in exercise activities and those willing to enhance their body mass through proper nutrition alone since they require effective means ensuring quick recovery from such exercises otherwise their efforts might turn out vice versa.”
Finding Reputable Brands
In case you might be wondering if insect protein powder is safe for human consumption, then it becomes very important that one selects trusted products that have indicated the ways through which they were sourced and also processed. Seek for those commodities that value quality first and follow strict safety measures.
Conclusion
The myth that worms form the basis of many protein powders has been debunked. Although there is potential in using insects for proteins, most of the protein powders in the market today come from other sources.