Identification of bacterial endospores and targeted detection of foodborne viruses in industrially reared insects for food

With edible insects being increasingly produced, food safety authorities have called for the determination of microbiological challenges posed to human health. Here, we find that the bacterial endospore fraction in industrially reared mealworm and cricket samples is largely comprised of Bacillus cereus group members that can pose insect or human health risks. Hepatitis A virus, hepatitis E virus and norovirus genogroup II were not detected in the sample collection, indicating a low food safety risk from these viral pathogens. Industrial insect production is expanding, particularly in regions where insects are not traditionally consumed, but food safety standards remain to be established. Here, potential microbiological contaminants from unprocessed insects are investigated, demonstrating a high risk for foodborne illnesses originating from bacterial spores, but low risk from viruses.