Reasons for eating insects? Responses and reflections among Swedish consumers

When studying perceptions of eating insects among new consumer groups, the focus is often on factors that make people avoid novel foods. In order to switch perspective and broaden the understanding of drivers for choosing insects as food, this pilot study aimed to explore the reasons for eating insects among Swedish adults with an interest in entomophagy. Data were collected via a questionnaire combined with workshop discussions. The study highlighted how concerns about “the environment” and “health”, and a willingness to try something “exciting” were the three main reasons for choosing insects as an alternative protein source.