Lidl Launches Insect Burgers Made With Mealworm Larvae

Lidl Ireland has introduced burgers made with soy and insects, specifically dried mealworm larvae, as part of its My Street Food range. Costing €2.99 for a pack of two, these "Insect Burgers" are a unique offering in the mainstream supermarket scene. Despite the growth of the edible insect market and potential environmental benefits, only 10.3 percent of Europeans are open to replacing meat with insects.

Advocates for insect consumption argue that it is a more sustainable protein source compared to traditional meat products. However, there are ethical considerations surrounding the mass killing and potentially painful slaughter methods used for insects. Research suggests that insects may be sentient and capable of feeling pain, though more studies need to be conducted to fully understand their experience.