Processing and Innovation of Insect-Based Protein for Enhancing Food Security and Strengthening Local Community Economies

Abstract

This academic article consists purposes 1. to study and analyze the transformation and development of protein innovation from insects according to the community product development project to commercial production and 2. to present the results of the community product development project to commercial production to increase the market value of the transformation and development of protein innovation from insects, which aims to enhance food security and develop the grassroots economy sustainably. The project implementation area is Ban Yang Tha Chaeng, Yang Tha Chaeng Subdistrict, Kosum Phisai District, Maha Sarakham Province. The results of the study found that 1) Processing and developing protein innovations from edible insects, such as grasshoppers, should have processes to increase the efficiency of breeding and distributing in the community by developing processed food products that have added value, are clean, safe, and can meet the needs of modern consumers by using participatory learning approaches and learning from real experiences from recognized experts to jointly develop sustainability and 2) The project developed knowledge on insect breeding, product processing, and protein innovation development, and food product design that is consistent with modern consumer behavior through practical training activities at the community level. Important outcomes include the development of prototype products, such as insect galangal chili paste and crispy grasshoppers, that have commercial potential and are well-received by health- and environmentally-conscious consumers. In addition, the project is in line with Thailand’s BCG economic policy and supports the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in various dimensions, including poverty eradication, food security, and sustainable consumption. Lessons learned from this project can be used as a model for developing local food innovations in other areas, especially in contexts where communities want to revive their economies, create new careers, and efficiently use local resources on a sustainable basis.