Insect-Based Foods May Pose Allergy Risks to Shellfish Allergy Sufferers, Study Finds

Researchers from James Cook University have uncovered a potential allergy risk associated with edible insect proteins. The study, led by Prof Andreas Lopata and Dr. Shay Karnaneedi from JCU’s Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, reveals that foods made from crickets and black soldier flies may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies.

The research team analyzed seven cricket-based and two black soldier fly-based food products, focusing on their protein content and allergenic potential. They found that these insect-based foods contain proteins similar to those found in crustaceans like prawns, crabs, and lobsters. This similarity poses a significant risk for the estimated 4% of the population affected by shellfish allergies.

Despite the growing popularity of insect proteins as a sustainable food source, particularly in Australia’s circular economy and decarbonization efforts, current commercial allergen test kits fall short in detecting these unique insect allergens. The study also tested two commercial allergen test kits and found them to be ineffective in reliably identifying insect-based proteins that could trigger allergic reactions.

Dr. Karnaneedi emphasized the urgent need for improved allergen test kits and better food labeling to address these issues. “As edible insects become a major protein source for the expanding global population, it is crucial that allergen detection methods are updated to account for these unique allergens,” she said.

The study, conducted in collaboration with the Australian National Measurement Institute (NMI), CSIRO, Edith Cowan University, Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), and Dr. Thimo Ruethers from JCU’s Tropical Futures Institute (TFI), highlights the importance of standardizing allergen detection methods. Prof Michelle Colgrave from CSIRO and Edith Cowan University noted that varying protein extraction methods can significantly impact allergen identification across different insect species.