| Popis: |
Edible insects have been considered a nutrient-dense alternative to conventional plant-based and animal products. These insects have been found to contain high levels of proteins (~33.5% and 67.2%), fat (22.5% - 49.8%), as well as vitamins (especially for: A, B, D, E, K), and minerals (Mg, P, Ca, Zn, Mg, Fe). However, with edible insects, there is far more than meets the eye. Edible insects have been found to contain high levels of chemical compounds known to promote health. Many of these compounds are found in insects due to their predominantly plant-based diets. This observation leads us to propose that insect-derived phytochemicals could exhibit similar bioactivity to those compounds found in plants. An analysis of minor health-promoting compounds that have been reported in the literature has shown the presence of bioactive compounds, polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenes, and phytosterols in common crickets. These compounds exhibit bioactive functions such as antioxidant, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. Edible insects are also excellent sources of the biopolymer, chitin. Chitin and its derivatives have many bioactive functions, including anti-tumour, antioxidant, anti-microbial and drug excipients. The objective of this presentation is, therefore, to examine the minor bioactive components of edible insects and their health effects. Attention will be given to the presence, concentration, and health properties of edible insect-derived compound classes such as phytochemicals (polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and sterols), as well as chitin and its derivatives. |
