The European Commission has officially allowed the use in the food industry of powder from whole larvae of “Tenebrio molitor” (large mealybug), treated with ultraviolet light. About this informs The Jerusalem Post.
So far, only the French company “Nutri’Earth” has received permission to sell this product. The European Commission, after analyzing scientific studies, concluded that the powder from the larvae of “Tenebrio molitor”, treated with ultraviolet light, is safe for consumption. It can be used in the production of bread, pastries, pasta, cheese, potato products, as well as fruit and vegetable products.
In addition, this product can serve as an alternative source of protein. Due to the ultraviolet treatment, it contains an increased amount of vitamin D3, although it is not a significant source of it in itself. However, products containing this powder may contain significant amounts of vitamin D3. In this regard, the European Commission recommends labeling them with the inscription “contains vitamin D obtained by UV treatment” and indicating its amount.
Nutri’Earth will have the exclusive right to sell this new product for at least the next five years. Other companies will be able to enter the market only with separate permission or consent from Nutri’Earth.
It is not the first time that the European Union approves the use of insects in the food industry as an alternative source of protein. Products based on migratory locusts, house crickets and small mealybugs were previously approved.
