Global food systems are under immense pressure to find sustainable, nutrient-dense ingredients as traditional resources become strained. One innovative solution emerging in the food and beverage industry is insect oils, which offer a rich source of omega-3s and essential fatty acids while having a smaller environmental footprint than conventional crops.  

As the search for sustainable alternatives continues, insect oils are becoming a viable option, addressing both nutrition and environmental challenges. 

Why insect oils could be the answer to health and sustainability 

Insect oils present a unique opportunity to enhance resilience to financial hardship while contributing to local and global social well-being.  

As Graeme Lee Rose, founder and managing director of JR Unique Foods, explains, “Alternative income sources, like insect rearing, can enhance resilience to financial hardship, contributing to social well-being at both local and global scales.”  

Beyond sustainability, these oils are rich in unsaturated fatty acids like α-linolenic and linoleic acids, essential for the body’s normal functioning. Despite the growing body of research around insect-based proteins, the potential of their oils is only beginning to be explored. 

Changing the way food is made: How insect oils could enhance your pantry 

Insect oils are no longer a novelty. Imagine using a cooking oil or salad dressing that not only boosts your meal’s nutritional value but also supports a sustainable food system.  

Rose shares, “Edible insects have been recognized as another potential source of essential fatty acids. We are only scratching the surface of the possibilities for these incredible oils.” 

These oils can be used to fortify everyday foods, adding omega-3s and essential fatty acids that typically come from fish or flaxseed without the environmental burden. With product innovations like JR Unique Foods’ new dropper bottle for easy application, this superfood could become a staple in more households. 

Introducing insect oils in mainstream foods could revolutionize the global food supply chain. By reducing reliance on resource-heavy crops like soy and palm oil, insect oils can significantly cut down deforestation rates and lower greenhouse gas emissions. “Innovation fuels our business expansion by unlocking new market opportunities. It also enables us to diversify and reach different customer groups,” says Rose. 

Despite initial consumer aversion in Western markets, JR Unique Foods remains committed to changing perceptions. “Many Western consumers find the idea of eating insect products new and scary,” Rose acknowledges. “By adding insect oils as an ingredient to conventional foods, we can overcome this aversion and introduce this new superfood to the mainstream market. When the insect is no longer visible, the perception of the product changes.” 

Functional beverages with insect oils: Setting industry standards with certifications 

JR Unique Foods is exploring new product categories, including functional beverages. The inclusion of insect oils in health drinks and supplements aligns with the growing market demand for wellness-focused products. Given the high nutrient density of insect oils, they can enhance these beverages with essential fatty acids and improve overall nutrition. 

The company’s production facility meets stringent international safety and quality standards, ensuring that consumers can trust the products they buy. “Our factory is certified with HACCP and GHP,” Rose emphasizes.  

It is also a USFDA-registered facility. International food safety controls are in place to minimize food safety risks and to give consumers confidence in our products.” 

Embracing a sustainable future in food 

Insect oils are more than just another ingredient—they represent a movement toward a healthier and more sustainable food system. By focusing on innovation, ethical sourcing, and consumer education, JR Unique Foods is actively shaping a future where sustainable superfoods become the norm. The potential of insect oils remains vast, offering consumers a simple way to make a positive impact through their dietary choices. 

Are you ready to explore the possibilities of this sustainable ingredient in your daily meals? 

With insights from Graeme Lee Rose. He is the founder and managing director of JR Unique Foods and the Thailand Unique brand. He hails from the UK and has resided in Thailand for more than twenty-five years. 

This story first came out in our “From Farm to Future” issue.