Sustainable protein sources from greenhouses: Desk study

De demand for sustainable protein sources has increased in recent years. Rearing edible insects using side streams from greenhouses and high protein crops grown in greenhouses can contribute to this demand. Wageningen University & Research has explored the possibilities in a deskstudy. Edible insects such as mealworms, crickets and locust species contain quality proteins, but also unsaturated fat, vitamins and minerals. They can be reared on various waste streams from greenhouse crops, but proteins and lipids should be added to the diet. The major plant protein sources are legumes and oilseeds, which are often used to generate animal protein-like products. Several crops were screened on their potential for greenhouse production on the criteria high nutrition value, suitability for high-wire cultivation and absence of legal issues. Lupin species and faba beans meet these requirements.