Health
Insects have as much protein as livestock, with more vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and iron. They also have essential omega fatty acids. This high-fiber protein source is delicious and nutritious.
Protein
Just like other animal-derived foods, insects are complete sources of protein. A complete source of protein is one that comprises the eight essential amino acids, which are the units of a protein that our bodies cannot generate and must acquire from our diets. The food we eat is composed of a variable proportion of the three macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Protein and fat are considered the two essential macronutrients, however, because humans cannot survive without them included in their diets. Crickets, one of the most common edible insects, are rich in protein and fat. In fact, cricket consumption (crickets are approximately 65% protein by weight) is growing in popularity in the bodybuilding community!
Vitamins & Minerals
Depending on the species, insects are chock-full of important vitamins and minerals. Most insects supply variable amounts of calcium, zinc, iron, thiamine, riboflavin, and potassium. Furthermore, the fats found in insects have a favorable omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio, especially when compared to most processed, animal-derived foods. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are also essential components of the human diet. For these reasons, insects are nourishing meal supplements (or replacements!) for any individual looking to improve energy, athletic performance, or overall wellness.
Clean
Edible insects are unlikely to carry disease that is transmittable to humans. Because they aren't closely related to humans, viruses they may get won't transmit to humans, the way swine flu, bird flu, and cow diseases and adapt into human-infecting strains. Edible insects are therefore a little safer to grow than mammal and bird livestock!