Insects as pets and food: influence of childhood experiences with insects on acceptance of entomophagy

Abstract Several strategies have been proposed to promote the acceptance of entomophagy, including educational measures to familiarise people with the concept of insects as food; however, little consideration has been given to practical measures such as contact with the insects. In this study, a web-based survey of 500 participants was conducted in Japan, where insect collection and breeding are popular, to examine whether direct and indirect childhood experiences with insects influence adult acceptance of entomophagy. Hierarchical regression analysis confirmed that individuals with greater childhood insect experiences were more likely to accept insect-based foods in adulthood. Furthermore, our findings indicate that childhood insect experiences influence entomophagy acceptance through psychological and cognitive factors, primarily by fostering a more positive perception of insect-based foods, including perceived nutritional value and reduced concerns about taste. They also contribute to reduced food neophobia. Based on these results, we propose that to promote entomophagy, children should not only be exposed to foods prepared using insects from an early age but, as a preliminary step, they should also experience activities that involve contact with insects. These measures have the potential to promote children’s acceptance of entomophagy in adulthood.