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.