Acceptance of insect-based food products in Western societies: An updated review (2021–2024)

This systematic literature review aims to investigate the factors influencing consumer acceptance of insect-based food products, incorporating studies from 2021 to May 2024. PRISMA guidelines were followed to identify relevant literature, which was subsequently analyzed using MAXQDA software. Furthermore, artificial intelligence was used throughout the screening process. The influencing factors are categorized into sociodemographic, psychological, emotional, social, dietary habits, product characteristics, and information-related aspects. By analyzing 126 studies from Western societies, we identify key drivers of acceptance, including gender, age, prior experience, attitudes, and curiosity, while noting barriers such as food neophobia, disgust, and dietary restrictions. This review provides valuable insights for marketers and policymakers aimed at promoting edible insects as sustainable protein alternatives and suggests further exploration of social influences on acceptance in future research.