Finnish company introduces protein powder with crushed crickets - alternative to whey protein

09-Jan-2020 - Finland

Entis - the leading insect food brand in the Nordics has launched a protein powder which is dairy, gluten and soy free. Entis Protein Power is made of vegetable proteins and crushed crickets. The company's goal is to change misconceptions surrounding insect food and aims for global markets.

"Our goal was to upgrade protein powders to the next level. The cricket powder is there to perfect the nutritional profile - crickets are high in vitamin B12, iron, zinc and dietary fiber which are surprisingly underrepresented in protein products in general. It also enhances the amino acid profile of the pea and pumpkin protein we've chosen to use", says company CEO Samuli Taskila.

"The protein market has been dominated by whey protein which is made of milk. We wanted a great-tasting powder that isn't made of milk and is more stomach-friendly," Taskila adds.

According to Barclays report published in 2019, insect protein is currently one of the most promising new protein sources and is growing popularity down to its excellent nutritional qualities and sustainability.

"Insect rearing produces 98% less greenhouse gas emissions and takes up only a fraction of space and water compared to livestock. It will be one of the most cost-efficient ways of protein production that will rival with traditional meat production in price and versatility within the next 5 years." Taskila says.

Entis wants to reshape the concept of insect food and what it means to consumers - it's no longer something you eat for the thrill, it's something you can eat on a daily basis. "Cricket powder is a great boost to basically any meal. It is the ultimate superfood ingredient, either as an added kick of nutrients or the main ingredient. It is important to get over the initial stereotype that you have to stare at a whole insect on your plate.", says Taskila.

Entis is soon expanding to Europe. After having worked on product development since 2017 and gaining a foothold in the Finnish retail markets, Entis is soon launching across Europe and aims to go global in the near future.

https://www.yumda.com/en/news/1164345/finnish-company-introduces-protein-powder-with-crushed-crickets-alternative-to-whey-protein.html