Rapid Expansion of Mealworms Industry Anticipated to Reach 19.8% Compound Annual Growth Rate by 2034

Rapid Expansion of Mealworms Industry Anticipated to Reach 19.8% Compound Annual Growth Rate by 2034

The mealworms market, a significant player within the broader edible insects and insect protein sector, is currently valued at several hundreds of millions to a few billion USD. This burgeoning industry is projected to experience strong growth in the coming years.

According to recent market research, the global edible insects market, which includes mealworms, was valued at around $2.41 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $3.01 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 25.1%. This growth is expected to continue, with the market eventually growing to approximately $7.39 billion by 2029 [1].

The insect protein market, which includes mealworms as a key source, was valued at about $309 million in 2025 and is forecasted to grow to $392 million by 2030 at a CAGR of 4.91% [5]. The insect-based snacks segment, which often uses mealworm flour, is valued at $250 million in 2025 and is expected to reach nearly $381 million by 2035, growing at a 4.3% CAGR.

Regional Markets

The Asia-Pacific region holds the largest share (approximately 32%) of the insect protein market, including mealworms, driven by traditional consumption, cultural acceptance, government support, and advanced farming technology in countries like Thailand, China, and South Korea [5]. Europe and North America are mature markets with growing regulatory approvals for insect consumption, leading to increasing product launches, especially in snacks and bakery products [5][2]. South America, Middle East, and Africa are emerging markets, with Brazil leading research and commercialization in South America, and South Africa notable for black soldier fly farming. These regions combine traditional use with modern commercial farming expansion [5].

Key Applications

The primary applications with the largest market share include human food products, animal feed, and waste valorization and insect farming automation. The incorporation of mealworm flour and powders into bakery products, snacks, and protein-rich food formulations is growing, with mealworm powder used as a wheat flour substitute improving the nutritional value in bread and pasta [2]. Mealworms are increasingly used in sustainable pet food and aquaculture feed due to their high protein and environmentally friendly profile [4][5].

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the mealworms market is expected to continue its growth trajectory. The Global Mealworms Market is projected to grow from USD 346.6 million in 2024 to USD 2,110.6 million by 2034, with a CAGR of 19.8% from 2025 to 2034. This growth is driven by food innovations, regulatory approvals, sustainability trends, and expanding applications in human and animal nutrition.

Key players in the market include Ÿnsect, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), All Things Bugs, Exo Terra, Protix, Aspire Food Group, and more. These companies are focused on advancing the production and integration of mealworms into various sectors, from pet food and aquaculture to mainstream consumer products.

In conclusion, mealworms hold a significant share within the edible insect protein market, especially in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America, with robust growth expected. This growth is driven by food innovations, regulatory approvals, sustainability trends, and expanding applications in human and animal nutrition.

1. Science reveals that mealworms, a key player in the edible insects market, offer promising benefits for both human and animal health, as well as for environmental Management.
2. Workplace wellness programs could potentially include mealworms as a source of protein in selected meals, contributing to chronic-diseases prevention, such as type-2-diabetes and cardiovascular health issues.
3. Medical conditions like COPD and multiple sclerosis could benefit from therapies and treatments derived from mealworm research, particularly focused on their anti-inflammatory properties.
4. In the realm of digestive health, mealworms have shown potential in treating skin-conditions like psoriasis due to their fatty acid content.
5. Eye-health could also receive a boost as certain nutrients found in mealworms have been linked to improved vision.
6. For individuals with hearing impairments, mealworm consumption might offer potential benefits, as some research indicates that certain nutrients can support auditory functions.
7. Realizing the importance of health and wellness, the incorporation of mealworms into a balanced diet could contribute to managing weight, considering their high protein and low-fat content.
8. According to environmental science research, mealworms can help combat climate change by reducing methane emissions from livestock farming.
9. In the finance sector, investing in mealworm farming can be a viable opportunity for wealth management, given the market's significant growth potential.
10. The edible insects and insect protein industry, including mealworms, can help address food security concerns since they require fewer resources than traditional livestock production.
11. In the field of personal finance, mealworm farming can offer entrepreneurs an opportunity in the business world, contributing to financial independence and a stable income.
12. The inclusion of mealworms in cooking recipes can create delicious dishes that cater to various health and wellness needs, including digestive health, skin-care, and weight management.
13. Health-conscious individuals can maintain a balanced lifestyle by incorporating mealworms into their food-and-drink choices, enhancing their overall wellness.
14. In the realm of nutrition, nanotechnology and food engineering can unlock new possibilities for mealworm-based functional foods, potentially influencing weight management and combating medical conditions like type-2-diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
15. CBD, a popular compound in recent years, has shown potential synergies with mealworms, as research suggests they could complement each other in therapies aimed at chronic-kidney-disease, neurological-disorders, and other chronic-diseases.
16. Autoimmune-disorders, such as rheumatoid-arthritis, could potentially find a beneficial treatment approach with mealworm-derived compounds due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
17. Educational institutions and self-development programs can incorporate mealworm farming and their economic impact into environmental science and finance curriculum.
18. Medicine and healthcare industries can collaborate with mealworm farming companies to develop innovative therapies and treatments for various conditions, including COPD, migraine, and other respiratory and neurological disorders.
19. The incorporation of mealworms into breast-cancer research could offer promising results, given the link between diet and cancer prevention.
20. Climate-change initiatives can capitalize on the environmental benefits of mealworm farming, integrating it into sustainable agriculture practices for a healthier planet.
21. Skin-care companies could explore mealworm derivatives as sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives to conventional chemical ingredients, catering to customer demand for cleaner and more natural products.
22. Lifestyle choices, such as mealworm consumption and innovative product launches in the food industry, can drive the economy forward and create new opportunities for businesses, investors, and financiers alike.

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