FOOD NEOPHOBIA AND ENTOMOPHAGIC PHOBIA: A STUDY ON THE INCORPORATION OF INSECTS IN BRAZILIAN DIETS

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20873/2025_jul_20618

Abstract

With the growing population, it is essential to explore sustainable sources of protein, such as insects, which are considered a viable alternative. However, their acceptance varies across cultures, facing barriers, mainly negative perceptions as food. This study investigated the willingness of Brazilians, both omnivores and vegetarians, to accept new foods, their relationship with entomophagy, and the factors influencing insect consumption. The Food Neophobia Scale (FNS) was used in an online questionnaire to assess participants' acceptance. The results showed that most Brazilians are neutral regarding food neophobia but exhibit neophobia concerning entomophagy. Omnivores displayed slight acceptance of the ecological benefits of insect consumption, while vegetarians were more skeptical, possibly due to ethical concerns. The ant was the most commonly consumed insect, but both groups demonstrated a strong aversion to insect consumption, especially among vegetarians. Insect-containing products should avoid visible parts to enhance acceptance.

Published

2025-07-17

How to Cite

de Santana Teixeira, A. B., de Andrade Rangel , D., & Silva Cadena, R. (2025). FOOD NEOPHOBIA AND ENTOMOPHAGIC PHOBIA: A STUDY ON THE INCORPORATION OF INSECTS IN BRAZILIAN DIETS. DESAFIOS - Revista Interdisciplinar Da Universidade Federal Do Tocantins, 12(4), 1–19. https://doi.org/10.20873/2025_jul_20618