Analyzing the Relationship Between Familiarity and Willingness of High School Students Toward Entomophagy

Abstract

Entomophagy—the consumption of edible insects—is getting growing global attention as an alternative protein source. Edible insects’ environmental, economic, and nutritional benefits have been proven, but consumer awareness, especially among teenagers, is the challenge that entomophagy is facing to implement in a large population. Lesnik's (Lesnik, 2019) research has discovered that disgust is learned rather than experienced. The question then emerged: If students learn about edible insects, would they be willing to consume insects? Thus, my research aims to answer the question: “To what extent would more familiarity with edible insects increase the willingness of high school students to engage in entomophagy?” This question investigates whether the mindset of high school students can be reprogrammed as they are more exposed to insects. To answer the question, this research used mixed methods using correlational and thematic analysis from data collected from high school students. Findings suggest that what students learn may be more important than what they know and more exposure to edible insects significantly increased their willingness to consume insects again, which demonstrates a high potential of bringing the insect as a replacement for traditional meat products. The study’s understanding also guides other researchers in further examining “disgust-based rejections” of people toward unfamiliar foods. 

Key Words: entomophagy, edible insects, familiarity, willingness, insect-containing food (ICF)