You’ll Never Guess What This Jerky Is Made Of?

European startup creates sustainable jerky with 45% cricket protein, delivering complete amino acids with 100x lower emissions than beef

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Image credit: Sens

Key Takeaways

  • Cricket jerky delivers 53g protein with 100x less CO2 emissions than beef
  • Teriyaki and BBQ flavors mask cricket taste using familiar Western ingredients
  • UN-backed cricket farming targets fitness enthusiasts and sustainability advocates simultaneously

Traditional jerky production devours resources like a gas-guzzling SUV in stop-and-go traffic, but Sens Cricket Jerky flips the script with 100 times less CO2 emissions than beef alternatives. This European innovation combines 45% cricket protein with plant-based ingredients, creating what early adopters describe as surprisingly authentic jerky that’s actually softer and juicier than the beef version.

Nutritional Powerhouse Meets Sustainability Goals

Cricket protein delivers complete amino acids with dramatically lower environmental costs.

The numbers tell a compelling story about alternative protein innovation. At 53 grams of protein per 100 grams, this jerky outperforms most traditional options while packing essential nutrients like vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.

Cricket protein requires a fraction of the land, water, and feed compared to livestock, according to Sens. The company even upcycles agricultural byproducts into cricket feed, creating fertilizer as a bonus side product.

Flavor Innovation Tackles the Ick Factor

Teriyaki and BBQ varieties use familiar tastes to ease consumer hesitation.

Sens offers two carefully crafted flavors designed for Western palates:

  • Teriyaki version incorporates sesame seeds and soy sauce for sweet-savory umami depth
  • BBQ variant uses dried prunes instead of white sugar, creating natural sweetness alongside tomato and vinegar notes

Consumer reviews consistently praise the authentic meat-like flavor, though some note the “squishy” texture requires mental adjustment.

Target Audience Extends Beyond Adventurous Eaters

Fitness enthusiasts and sustainability advocates drive adoption alongside culinary explorers.

This product serves more than novelty food for TikTok challenges. Health-conscious snackers appreciate the complete protein profile and beneficial omega fats, while environmentally aware consumers recognize cricket jerky farming’s minimal ecological footprint.

However, buyers need to check allergen warnings carefullyโ€”the product contains soy, sesame, gluten, and may trigger shellfish-like allergic reactions.

Alternative Protein Movement Gains Mainstream Momentum

UN backing positions cricket protein as a viable solution for sustainable food systems.

The company represents the growing wave of businesses normalizing insect protein for Western markets, backed by UN recognition of cricket farming’s sustainability potential. While cricket consumption remains common in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, products like this jerky test whether European innovation can overcome cultural barriers through superior nutrition and familiar flavors.

The real question isn’t whether cricket jerky tastes goodโ€”early reviews suggest it does. It’s whether convenience and environmental consciousness can outweigh deeply ingrained food preferences like the carnivore diet.

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