The New York Times recently published an article about how bad pets are for the environment due to their meat consumption – https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/29/climate/dogs-cats-pets-environment-impact.html/. I’m glad to see this article shedding light on the environmental impact of pet ownership, but I’m surprised it overlooks one of the most promising, science-backed solutions already available: insect-based pet food.
Insect-Based Pet Food to the Rescue
Insects – especially black soldier fly larvae – are nutritionally complete and species-appropriate. They’re naturally part of the ancestral diets of dogs and wild cats, particularly through the consumption of whole prey (e.g., rodents, birds, reptiles, insects) [1]. Insects provide high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and important micronutrients like iron, zinc, and calcium [2].
Insect-based pet foods also offer functional benefits: BSFL contain chitin and lauric acid, compounds with documented antimicrobial and immune-modulating properties [3,4]. While lauric acid is a saturated fat, it’s classified as a medium-chain fatty acid and may offer antimicrobial effects that support gut health when included in balanced amounts [5].
From an environmental perspective, insect farming uses drastically less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock, and emits significantly lower greenhouse gases [6]. BSFL, in particular, can be reared on upcycled food waste, turning a global problem into a regenerative solution.
A study published in Scientific Reports in 2021 showed that replacing traditional meat protein with insect meal in dog food could reduce the pet food carbon footprint by over 80% [7].
If we’re serious about reducing the environmental “pawprint” of our pets, insect protein needs to be part of the conversation. It’s not a fringe idea; the EU and AAFCO have already approved insects as safe for use in pet foods [8]. Major pet food brands are even launching insect lines. Yet it’s often overlooked in mainstream discussions like this one.
Let’s stop framing this as a zero-sum game. We can care for our pets and the planet if we start supporting the right innovations.
FAQ
Q1: Is insect-based pet food safe for dogs and cats?
A: Yes. Insects like black soldier fly larvae are approved by AAFCO and the EU for use in pet food and provide complete, balanced nutrition.
Q2: What are the environmental benefits of insect pet food?
A: Insect farming emits fewer greenhouse gases, uses less water and land, and can be fed food waste—making it one of the most sustainable protein sources.
Q3: Do pets actually like the taste of insect-based food?
A: Most dogs and cats accept insect-based foods readily. Palatability trials show high acceptance when properly formulated.
Q4: Where can I buy insect-based dog or cat food?
A: Several brands like Jiminy’s, Grubbly Farms, and Yora offer insect-based products online and in specialty pet stores. Check out companies I recommend here.
Q5: Can insect-based diets improve pet health?
A: Research suggests benefits to digestion and immunity due to chitin and antimicrobial fats in BSFL, but balanced formulation is key.
Sources:
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. 2006.
- Makkar, H.P.S. et al. (2014). State-of-the-art on use of insects as animal feed. Animal Feed Science and Technology.
- Gasco, L. et al. (2020). Insect and fish by-products as sustainable alternatives to conventional animal proteins in pet foods. Journal of Insects as Food and Feed.
- Spranghers, T. et al. (2018). Nutritional composition of black soldier fly larvae and prepupae. Waste Management.
- Shilling, M. et al. (2013). Antimicrobial effects of virgin coconut oil and its fatty acids on Clostridium difficile. Journal of Medicinal Food.
- Smetana, S. et al. (2019). Environmental aspects of insect-based food and feed. International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment.
- Alexander, P. et al. (2021). The environmental impact of pet food in the UK and potential for change. Scientific Reports.
- AAFCO Official Publication (2022); EU Commission Regulation (EU) 2021/1372.
I think it’s going to be a marketing problem for companies that produce pet food. If the minds behind pet food commercials are correct, people want to feed their pets food that they would eat (at least in theory). That’s probably the reason Friskies and Nine Lives have never come out with a mouse option, despite our cultural belief that cats like to eat mice.
Bill – TOTALLY. We’re already seeing a huge shift toward health-conscious pet owners cooking their dogs their own food. Owners absolutely want to feed their pets something they would eat themselves. That being said, I hope that as more research comes out about the health and environmental benefits of insect consumption we’ll continue to see more buyers flock towards insect-based pet food products.