Transformative potential of insect bioconversion and its role in circular economy

Insects are emerging as a pivotal component of sustainable food and feed systems, offering efficient bioconversion and a promising solution to global food security. This review explores the current state and future prospects of insect rearing, focusing on key advancements and applications. The review highlights the importance of insects within the circular economy framework, emphasizing their potential to reduce waste while producing high-quality products. It examines insect-mediated bioconversion processes, edible insects as sustainable food source, insect-based feed production for livestock, aquaculture and pets, and the evolving global legislative frameworks governing insect utilization. Life Cycle Assessment is presented as a critical tool for evaluating the environmental impact and sustainability of insect rearing. The review also identifies future challenges, with a particular emphasis on scaling up of the Black Soldier Fly larvae rearing through automation. This technology-driven approach is described as essential for achieving efficiency, scalability, and economic viability in insect farming into mainstream food and feed systems. By integrating environmental management principles with technological and regulatory advances, this review adopts an interdisciplinary perspective that supports the transition toward circular and resource-efficient agri-food systems. Overall, the review contributes to the journal mission by positioning insect rearing as a strategic tool for sustainable development and integrated environmental solutions.