Insect Farms Raise More Than a Trillion Critters for Animal Feed, But Are They Ethically Buggered?
In the world of critter farming, insect farms have been buzzing with activity. More than a trillion bugs are bred each year, sold off as high-protein, low-carbon feed for our animal friends. But have these farms overlooked an important ethical issue?
According to a recent study published in the Bug Journal (yes, that’s a real thing), there may be a serious blind spot in the way these insect farms operate. “There’s just something off about grinding up billions of living creatures for our own consumption,” said Dr. Flea McBeetle, lead researcher on the study. “I mean, imagine being born just to be fed to a pig. It’s kind of messed up.”
Industry leaders, such as Buzz Lightfly and Beetlejuice, say the study is unfounded. “Our insects are treated with the utmost care and respect,” insisted Buzz. “We even give them cute little names!”
Indeed, Bug Farms, Inc. has named each of its trillion or so insects in order to help them feel more like members of the family. However, critics point out that this is just another way to mask the sheer volume of bugs being produced each year.
Even some vegans have joined the chorus of outrage. “We need to start treating insects as sentient beings, not just disposable protein packets,” said vegan blogger Daisy Dragonfly.
Despite the controversy, it’s unlikely that the insect farming industry will see any major changes in the near future. “The demand for cheap, sustainable animal feed is too high to ignore,” said Beetlejuice. “Plus, insects don’t make nearly as cute of a hashtag as, say, #savethepandas.”
So the next time you’re feeding your beloved pet, just remember: somewhere out there, there’s a poor bug with its own adorable name being ground up into a fine green powder. It’s enough to make you squirm.
