Getting protein from insects and soy-based imitation meat instead of livestock are efficient ways to reduce our agricultural land use and harmful emissions (such as greenhouse gases), says a recent analysis in Global Food Security. Many people already eat soy foods, but the thought of grasshoppers for taco “meat” or cricket flour for baking, although increasing in availability, makes some people queasy. Fortunately, the analysis also suggests making smaller changes, such as shifting away from meat like beef and lamb and shifting toward poultry and eggs, would provide land use and associated environmental benefits that are close in magnitude to insect and soy protein options. Simply reducing meat intake helps, too.
To learn more: Global Food Security, online April 2017 –