Overcoming barriers to insect based food in Europe

The aim of this thesis is to understand the barriers of potential consumers to insect-based food in Europe that prevent them from consuming these foods, and to examine how existing companies are overcoming these barriers. The first part of the objective was fulfilled through a comprehensive literature review, whereas the second part of the objective was achieved through primary research. The primary research consisted of 6 semi-structured telephone interviews and 1 structured interview via e-mail due to the interviewees time constraints. In the results, different approaches to product design emerged together with a varied interplay with another factor that was information. Companies showed great awareness in individual factors whereas social factors did not emerge during the research. Differences were discovered in practical factors; differences in availability could be attributed to the period of time the company is in the business while differences in approach to pricing were significant. Several other barriers emerged, most notably, legislation in Europe. Furthermore, some companies showed a discrepancy between strategy and vision. Overall companies approach barriers very well, except the price factor.