Iris van Buuren

 Faculty of Science and Engineering | Bachelor University College Venlo

"Evaluating the safety of insects as an alternative protein source in cat feed: a case study in the European Union"

Iris's elevator pitch
"As the global population’s demand for animal-sourced protein increases, cats contribute due to their high protein diet, resulting in a significant carbon “paw-print. Insects, with their high protein content and sustainable production methods, have emerged as a promising solution. However, a critical gap exists in understanding its safety aspects of insect-based cat food. This case study integrates a comprehensive literature review with interviews with EU businesses to explore the safety considerations of producing insect-based cat food. The key findings emphasise the complexities in ensuring insect-based cat food safety such as nutritional, digestibility and health considerations whilst highlighting the need for further development in literature and EU regulations to foster this innovative protein source."