New to cricket protein? You've come to the right place! While you might be skeptical at first to try insect-based protein, it is actually a healthy and sustainable alternative source of protein for athletes. While the consumption of insects might be new to you, it is already a big part of the diet in other countries. In this article, we dive into why you should stop refusing and start considering adding some tasty crickets in your meals!

Keep reading to discover 5 good reasons to include cricket protein in your diet!

1.  Crickets are sustainable

One of the biggest benefits of farming crickets is that it is very easy to achieve on a large scale, and can be done without destroying ecosystems. Just take a look at this graph!

Crickets are one of the mostsustainable sources of protein. In fact, they require far fewer resources than animal-based proteins and therefore produce less waste and greenhouse gases for the planet. Crickets need 2000 times less water and produce 100 times less greenhouse gases than beef farming does!

2. Crickets are nutrient dense

Crickets are often referred to as a superfood. These critters are rich incomplete proteins; they contain each of the 9 essential amino acids. This is especially important for athletes as essential amino acids play a critical role in muscle recovery and growth. 

Not only are they protein rich, but crickets also provide omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids and important vitamins and minerals including vitamin B12 and iron. Vitamin B12 helps the body synthesize red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body; without sufficient amounts of B12, you might feel weakness and fatigue. Cricket powder contains a lot ofheme iron, which is the type of iron best absorbed by your body.

Cricket powder also has importantantioxidant properties. Antioxidants help reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Research has eve shown that cricket powder contains 5 times more antioxidants than orange juice!

If you want to learn more about different nutrients and their benefits, we invite you click here to learn more! 

3. Crickets are easy to cook 

Contrary to what one might think, integrating crickets into your diet is not complicated. In fact, cricket powder is an extremely versatile ingredient!

Cricket powder has a light roasted hazelnut taste and a flour-like texture. Simply add 2 tablespoons of powder to baked goods, smoothies, or entree recipes; cricket powder can essentially be mixed with any recipes while providing a great protein boost!

4. Crickets are local

If you were not aware, our crickets come from the largest insect farm in North America: Entomo Farms, located in Ontario. At Näak, we are committed to using the most sustainable and efficient ingredients to minimize our environmental footprint without compromising on quality. Sustainable ingredients are those that are produced and transported in a manner that limits their contribution to global warming. That is why our cricket powder is locally-sourced, reducing our environmental footprint.

5. You would not be alone

If you are reluctant to eat crickets, know that more than 2 billion people already consume insects! According to a United Nations report entitledEdible insects Future prospects for food and feed security, insects are the future of our food. By 2050, we might not be able to sustain the world's current protein diet. It would be wise to start exploring other viable protein alternatives!

Looking for a protein boost to recover faster after your workouts? Try ourCricket Protein Powder or find recipe ideas on ourblog !