Micronutrients & recovery
Insects are not significantly healthier than commonly consumed meats (beef, pork, chicken) when evaluated by nutrient profiling models designed to combat over-nutrition (e.g., OFCOM).
If you are eating insects to improve your diet compared to beef or chicken, you may not see health benefits regarding heart disease risk factors (saturated fat, sodium). Insects vary widely; some are worse than meat for these metrics. Do not assume they are a 'health food' without checking the specific species and preparation.
According to the Ofcom model, no insects were significantly ‘healthier’ than meat products.
Why this rating
Systematic comparison using two validated models, though limited by missing data for some insects.
Source
Are edible insects more or less ‘healthy’ than commonly consumed meats? A comparison using two nutrient profiling models developed to combat over- and undernutrition
Charlotte Payne et al. · European Journal of Clinical Nutrition · 2015
DOI 10.1038/ejcn.2015.149
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This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →