Potential applications of antimicrobial peptides from edible insects in the food supply chain: Uses in agriculture, packaging, and human nutrition

Abstract

The search for ingredients from novel sources is gaining interest within the framework of promoting a more sustainable food system. The exploration of insects as a source of antimicrobial peptides could be useful for identifying compounds able to inhibit the growth of several microorganisms in different food applications. The purpose of this review is to recapitulate the literature on edible insect protein hydrolysates as a source of antimicrobial peptides, their mechanisms, and their use in the food industry by producing fortified products or edible coatings, and their use in agriculture. Scarce investigation has been carried out in the framework of their incorporation into the food system regarding their antimicrobial properties. Locusta migratoria, Hermetia illucens, and Tenebrio molitor are some of the most studied species. The literature available suggests promising results in areas such as fortification of foods or active packaging, based on the antimicrobial properties they might exert.