K-State professor spreads awareness on insects’ positive effect on food-security efforts
Bugs in a burger are normally a health code violation waiting to happen. But what if bugs were used to feed our cattle — before the burgers hit the cookout?
K-State professor and Department of Entomology head Brian McCornack believes that insects are the secret to more ethically fed livestock — and a tool that could help solve major hunger crises.
Insects, rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins and minerals, are an incredible source of nutrition for livestock, McCornack said.
Through “insect farming,” the practice of breeding insects to support other agrifood systems, bugs like crickets, mealworms and black soldier flies can be valuable additions to feed menus.
“Ultimately, we want to help lay the groundwork for a more circular and vibrant agricultural economy in Kansas,” he said. “One where insects play a supporting role in enhancing productivity, reducing waste and creating new business opportunities.”
But why bugs? McCornack said that insects, compared to other protein sources, require limited water and space resources. This helps lower environmental impacts and creates a more resource-efficient food and feed system.
To share the positive sides of pests, McCornack and the entomology department hosted the Future of Insect Farming conference to spark conversation about the use of insects in agricultural practices. Information on K-State’s developing Insect Farming Initiative was also shared.
“We want people, especially agricultural producers, to know we understand that the pressures on traditional agriculture are driving changes in food and feed practices,” McCornack said. “Insect farming offers practical, resource-efficient solutions to some of agriculture’s biggest challenges. It’s not about replacing traditional farming practices; it’s about adding new tools to the toolbox.”
Written By: Abbigail Marshall
Curated from: https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/news-and-publications/news/stories/2025/04/agriculture-insect-farming.html
