Essento Food AG

Edible insects have the potential for a more diverse, sustainable and healthy diet. This is why we establish insects as a complete source of protein and at the same time make a positive contribution to people and the environment with our commitment.

But how did this happen?

Discovering new things has been an important part of Essento since its inception. The two founders, Christian Bärtsch and Matthias Grawehr, met edible insects again and again on their travels through Asia, Africa and Latin America. "We were surprised at how good and varied it tasted.

In 2013, the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) published a report on the ecological and health potential of insects. For the two of them, the point was clear: edible insects should also be on the plates in Switzerland!

Together with like-minded people and experts, they formed an interdisciplinary team. This team is still linked today by the constant question of whether the status quo of our consumer behaviour is the right way to live healthy and in harmony with our environment.

A strong team spirit was essential, as a major task was ahead of us: "In addition to setting up the company, the main priority was to create the legal basis to allow insects to be offered as food in the first place.

Thanks to clever and energetic persuasion, insects were finally approved as food - an important milestone on our journey and for the consumption of insects in Europe.

We immediately embarked on product development. Our products must taste delicious, that's always been close to our hearts. On August 21, 2017, the Essento Burger and Balls found their way into retailers' refrigerated shelves for the first time. "Our burgers and balls are still handmade in our factory in Zurich Altstetten, Switzerland.