The European Union has approved the use of UV-treated mealworm powder, enriched with vitamin D, in food products like bread and cheese, allowing up to four percent inclusion. This initiative aims to enhance nutritional value, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources. While mealworms provide beneficial nutrients, experts caution that they should not replace natural sunlight for vitamin D. Currently, Nutri’Earth is the only brand with approval for this ingredient, making it a niche addition in the market.
The European Union has recently introduced a regulation allowing the inclusion of mealworms enriched with vitamin D in various food products. But which items are impacted, and how beneficial is this change?
Under the new EU guidelines, up to four percent mealworm powder can now be incorporated into certain foods, including bread and cheese. While the consumption of mealworms and other insects has been permitted for over three years (since May 2021), this latest development centers around mealworms that are specially treated with UV light to boost their vitamin D content.
The goal of adding insect flour is to enhance the nutritional value of products, providing beneficial nutrients typically sourced from less sustainable options like meat and dairy.
“We recognize that edible insects are a rich source of protein and contain other essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and minerals,” explains Sabine Holzäpfel from the Consumer Center of Baden-Württemberg in SWR. “These nutrients are crucial for our health.” Ready-to-eat products high in protein are often marketed for weight management or muscle development. But do they actually deliver on these promises?
Boosting Nutritional Value with Insect Flour
According to experts, insect flour is not simply a cost-cutting measure. In fact, it is generally pricier than traditional flour, as are the products that utilize it. “These items are specifically developed with the inclusion of insects in mind,” Holzäpfel clarifies. “They typically highlight their insect content in their branding, so consumers don’t need to worry about hidden ingredients.”
Additionally, EU regulations mandate that insect flour be clearly listed on ingredient labels, along with allergy warnings. This is crucial for individuals who may have allergies to crustaceans or dust mites, as they might also react to mealworm powder.
The use of UV radiation to enhance vitamin D levels is not widely recognized, but it is not an unfamiliar technique in the food industry. Holzäpfel notes that UV treatment is more commonly associated with food preservation and germ elimination.
“This UV light treatment aimed at boosting vitamin D content is relatively new, though similar approvals exist for other foods, such as mushrooms, baker’s yeast, and milk,” she adds. The European Food Safety Authority has also deemed this method safe for consumption.
Incorporating foods rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids can assist in reducing abdominal fat.
Sunlight vs. Mealworm Powder for Vitamin D
Once the larvae are farmed and dried, they undergo UV irradiation, which significantly increases the vitamin D3 levels in the mealworm powder. This vitamin D enrichment method is already partially utilized with edible mushrooms. During the winter months, consumers might find this increase in vitamin D particularly beneficial, as deficiencies can lead to brittle bones, muscle weakness, and a weakened immune system in adults.
However, the marketing of vitamin D-enriched mealworms may not be as compelling as one might think. While just four grams of mealworm powder can provide one-sixth of the daily vitamin D requirement, Holzäpfel emphasizes the importance of obtaining vitamin D through sunlight exposure: “This natural production is far more significant. Taking a stroll outdoors in favorable weather can have numerous positive effects on health.”
Expecting mealworm powder to deliver a substantial amount of vitamin D may set unrealistic expectations, Holzäpfel warns. While it can contribute to daily intake, it should not be seen as a primary source.
Minimal Risk of Vitamin D Overdose from Mealworm Powder
The Medicines Commission of the German Medical Association has issued warnings regarding potential vitamin D overdose from excessive long-term intake, which could lead to serious health issues like acute kidney failure. High vitamin D levels may cause elevated calcium levels, resulting in kidney stones and gastrointestinal issues.
Fortunately, there is no substantial risk of overdose from the newly introduced mealworm powder. The UV treatment elevates the vitamin D levels to a range comparable to other food sources.
As science continues to evolve, new findings and insights on topics such as health, technology, climate, and research are emerging regularly.
Insect Powder: A Niche Ingredient for Now
For those interested in sustainable options, mealworm powder from the French brand Nutri’Earth offers a more nutrient-rich alternative. However, Holzäpfel notes that the differences in nutritional value may be minimal.
Currently, Nutri’Earth is the sole company with approval for such a product, raising concerns about market fairness since it holds a competitive edge over other manufacturers. Yet, due to low profitability, products featuring insect flour remain scarce on supermarket shelves. As a result, UV-treated mealworm powder continues to be an exotic ingredient for the time being.
This topic was discussed in a report by BR24 on February 10, 2025, at 1:46 PM.