Tag: Tenebrio molitor

According to a Maastricht University study, mealworm protein was found to be as effective as milk protein in stimulating muscle synthesis, making it a high-quality source. But are mealworms good protein for your everyday diet, and how do they stack up against other options? This guide explores their full nutritional potential.

Over 2 billion people worldwide consume insects as part of their diet, a practice known as entomophagy. When processed into a fine powder, this sustainable protein source is commonly known as Tenebrio molitor powder or simply mealworm flour. This nutrient-rich ingredient is gaining traction in Western diets as a versatile addition to baked goods, smoothies, and snacks.

Dried mealworms, the larvae of the *Tenebrio molitor* beetle, boast a protein content of up to 53% on a dry-matter basis, confirming their status as a high-protein food source. This impressive nutritional profile, combined with their sustainability, positions mealworms as a compelling alternative protein for both human consumption and animal feed.

Over 2,100 insect species are reportedly consumed worldwide, with growing interest in sustainable protein sources driving their inclusion in Western diets. This has prompted many to wonder if common supplements like protein bars are quietly incorporating these novel ingredients, specifically asking: are protein bars made out of mealworms?

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, insects like mealworms contain high-quality protein, vitamins, and amino acids. This has led many to wonder: should humans eat mealworms, and what are the benefits and drawbacks of this alternative protein source?

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), over 2,100 insect species are consumed worldwide. Among these, mealworms, the larval form of the *Tenebrio molitor* beetle, are increasingly being processed into a high-protein ingredient. This makes many people wonder: is protein made out of mealworms, and is it a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional sources?

In January 2025, the European Commission officially authorized UV-treated powder made from whole *Tenebrio molitor* larvae, commonly known as the yellow mealworm, for market use. This landmark decision means that powder made from flour beetle larvae has been sanctioned as a novel food ingredient across the EU, following a rigorous safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

With the global population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, the demand for sustainable food sources is accelerating, leading many to ask: do people use mealworms for protein? The answer is a resounding yes, with dried mealworms containing an impressive 45-53% protein by weight, making them a viable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional protein.

Over 2 billion people worldwide already incorporate insects into their diet, a practice known as entomophagy. Amidst the growing need for sustainable protein, many people are exploring alternatives to traditional livestock, leading to the question: which worm is used for protein and how can it contribute to a nutritious diet?

According to research, dried mealworms contain a significant amount of protein, ranging from 48% to 54% by dry weight. This high protein content, combined with healthy fats and micronutrients, is a strong indicator of their nutritional potential. But **do dried mealworms have nutritional value** for human consumption and how does it compare to other proteins?