Cricket flour is a food rich in protein and essential nutrients obtained by grinding crickets. These insects are a sustainable and rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals, making cricket flour a nutritionally sound and environmentally friendly option.
Cricket meal is produced through a process that involves breeding crickets under controlled conditions, harvesting the insects, grinding them into a fine powder and finally sterilising them to ensure food safety.
Cricket flour is rich in complete protein, essential fatty acids, B vitamins, minerals such as iron and calcium, and fibre. This combination of nutrients makes it an excellent source of energy and essential nutrients for the human body
Yes, cricket flour is safe for human consumption. It has been approved by health authorities in many countries and is produced in accordance with strict hygiene and food safety standards.
Yes, cricket flour is considered a sustainable food option. Cricket farming requires fewer land and water resources than conventional sources of animal protein, and produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, crickets can be raised using plant-based feeds, helping to reduce dependence on conventional food resources.
Cricket flour can cause allergic reactions in people allergic to shellfish or their derivatives. It is important to consult a doctor or allergist before consuming it, especially if you have a history of insect allergies.
Cricket flour has a slightly earthy, nutty flavour, reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts, which may vary slightly depending on the production method and the other ingredients in the food preparation. However, the flavour is generally pleasant and almost imperceptible, allowing it to be used in many recipes without significantly altering the final taste of the dish.
Cricket flour differs from traditional flours in its exceptional protein density. It is significantly richer in protein than wheat, maize or rice flours, and provides a wide range of micronutrients, including iron, calcium and B vitamins. In addition, it contains essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6, making it a nutritionally dense option.
Cricket flour is not universally accepted as suitable for a vegan diet. However, some vegans may consider it acceptable since insects are often seen as a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of protein. Therefore, its suitability depends on the individual ethical beliefs of the vegan consumer.
Cricket flour may be suitable for children. However, it is advisable to consult a paediatrician or nutritionist before introducing it into a child’s diet, especially if food allergies or other nutritional concerns are present. In general, cricket flour can be a rich nutritional source of protein and other essential nutrients for children.
No, cricket flour does not contain gluten, making it a suitable choice for people on a gluten-free diet or who are sensitive to this protein.
Crickets are reared in controlled containers or habitats, providing them with food, water and sufficient space to grow. Alphafood uses a unique innovative breeding system, currently under patenting, to ensure high standards of insect welfare and sustainable cricket meal production.