ABSTRACT
The burgeoning world population is putting pressure on resources and causes food insecurity. Unfortunately, conventional farming methods (agriculture and livestock) seem insufficient to cope with the hunger monster. The dilemma of food insecurity, poor dietary constituents and high diversity profile has drawn the world's attention to insects as an alternative source of essential and healthy nutrients. In the modern world, insects are no longer seen as disgusting creatures due to their remarkable services to society. Insect farming is regarded as a very sustainable, cheaper and eco-friendly source of sustenance. Insect cultivation by means of different methods (wild, indoor and outdoor farming) depends upon the availability of species, environmental conditions and consumer acceptance. Farming of housefly, black soldier fly, grasshoppers, crickets, silkworm, red palm weevil and weaver ants is practiced in many developed and developing countries to obtain more good quality proteins, fats and carbohydrates than traditional sources. Advanced farming practices, ease of accessibility and attractive marketing strategies have increased the per capita consumption of insects. The inclusion of more professionals and local people in the industry will make edible insect farming a more viable source for enhancing GDP (gross domestic production).
