A worldwide overview of the status and prospects of edible insect production

There has been continuous and growing interest in edible insects. Worldwide, various levels of insect farming are emerging, ranging from small domestic farms to vertical farms reaching heights of 36 meters, accommodating several million growing insects. The appeal of insects lies in their ecological benefits, as they contribute to the valorization of underutilized organic residues while requiring minimal space and water. The selection of insect species is influenced not only by their biology and behavior but also by local preferences and customs, varying with the scale of production and geographical location. This review article aims to provide an updated overview of the main insect species produced across different continents, their current level of industrialization, and production prospects based on available literature.