Domestication and value addition to edible Rynchophorus larvae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) for food and nutrition security: global progress, challenges, and future perspectives

Abstract As the world’s population increases, traditional food sources face various constraints. This has renewed interest in the domestication and value addition of alternative food sources such as edible insects for nutrition and food security, as they are rich in proteins, fats, amino acids, flavonoids, minerals, and vitamins. Among these insects, the larvae of Rynchophorus spp (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) have a demonstrated potential as a sustainable and nutritious food source. Attempts to develop new insect farming techniques, improved harvesting methods, and creation of value-added products from palm weevil larvae such as powder, flour, and snacks are on the increase. However, their potential is yet to be fully explored due to insufficient domestication and value addition efforts. The main obstacles to the success of palm weevil larvae value chains include lack of knowledge and awareness among farmers and consumers on nutritional value of the weevils and the scarcity of regulations and policies to govern their farming and marketing, leading to market limitations and hindering large-scale production. With concerted efforts and more investment in palm weevil larvae value chain development, these larvae can potentially contribute significantly to food and nutrition security. We recommend the adoption of sustainable palm weevil larvae farming practices, strengthening of quality control standards, and promotion of cultural shifts towards insect consumption. Implementing more efficient and automated production and processing methods, as well as exploring the potential of using the insects for animal feed and other valuable by-products, can help achieve a more sustainable approach to farming palm weevil larvae.