ENHANCING FOOD SECURITY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE MEKONG COUNTRIES THROUGH INNOVATIVE EDIBLE INSECT INTEGRATION FOR FUTURE FOOD

In the Mekong region and across Asia, edible insects are a staple in local diets, with 164 species documented in the Mekong alone and 932 across Asia. As commercial demand for insect-based foods grows, this sector presents significant profitability and potential. However, large-scale harvesting can jeopardize biodiversity, highlighting the need for sustainable farming practices. This project aims to address key challenges such as cultural resistance, regulatory gaps, and infrastructure limitations by advancing research and development in insect farming. The focus includes optimizing breeding practices, enhancing the nutritional value of insect-based foods, developing novel cosmetic products, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of insect populations, fostering both economic growth and ecological balance.  Read more...

Countrie

Priority Sector

Agriculture & Rural Development

Countrie

Project Site

Thailand

Beneficiaries

No. of Direct Beneficiaries

Duration

Duration

Mar-2025 to Mar-2028

Objectives

Objectives

  • 1. To promote the cultivation and consumption of edible insects as a sustainable food source that reduces malnutrition, lowers the environmental footprint of food production, and creates economic opportunities for smallholder farmers and rural communities.
  • 2. To align with regional cooperation goals, enhancing the resilience and prosperity of the Mekong countries while addressing challenges such as food insecurity, environmental degradation, and socio-economic disparities.

Activities

Organize seminars and community activities to raise awareness about edible insects.

Collaborate with schools, local leaders, and the media to integrate edible insect education into public discourse.

Establish sustainable insect farming practices and provide training courses for farmers.

Advance research and development on edible insects, ensuring product safety and appeal.

Develop innovative processing and preservation technologies, and strengthen market infrastructure and value chains.

Support the development of insect-based foods tailored to local tastes.

[Expected] Results

Increased supply of insect-based protein, improving nutritional status and enhancing food system resilience.

Higher income levels for farmers and entrepreneurs, establishment of new insect breeding enterprises, and promotion of economic growth.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions from traditional livestock farming, enhanced biodiversity, and improved soil health.

Trained farmers in insect breeding techniques and improved professional skills of relevant personnel.

Development and commercialization of a range of insect-based products, with expanded market scale and acceptance.

Creation of a policy and regulatory framework to support insect farming, and promotion of policy coordination and industry development.

Outcome

Success Factors/Strategies

Outcome

Future Strategies and Sustainability Plans

Objectives

PIA Contact Information

  • PIA Name: Chiang Mai University
  • Person Name: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Terd Disayathanoowat
  • Person Email: terd.dis@cmu.ac.th

Achievements

Project Implementing Agency
Contact Person: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Terd Disayathanoowat

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Outcome

Project Videos

Outcome

Project Activity Reports

Outcome

Impact Story