The Viennese insect food start-up ZIRP is now represented online in the dm range with three protein bars. During a first test in February, the bars were immediately sold out. According to dm, insect consumption in Europe is expected to increase because insect protein is considered healthy and sustainable.
The price for a bar in the dm online shop is 2.49 euros. Of course, DM boss Harald Bauer also knows that many people are annoyed by the idea of eating insects. The drugstore chain therefore begins its press release about the launch of the protein bar with a call: “Anyone who is initially completely averse should give the innovative product a chance, according to the recommendation of the World Food Organization (FAO), which advocates a higher consumption of insects.”
There are several reasons to choose insect protein as an alternative to meat: “Insects are easier to breed. They have a more favorable climate equilibrium. And these protein sources can also make an important contribution to combating malnutrition and malnutrition in the world in the future.”
According to dm, protein bars made from insects are reminiscent of conventional bars in consistency. The taste is slightly nutty and is determined by other ingredients such as fruit. The ingredients are 100 percent natural and clearly visible on the bars.
The protein comes from the Buffalo worm.
Specifically, the protein in the bars comes from the Buffalo worm, which is considered an important source of protein and vitamins. It contains a high level of protein and all eight essential amino acids. According to dm, there are also clear benefits for the environment. A comparison: “The production of 100 grams of beef requires approximately 2,200 liters of water; insects need 2,000 times less; The same amount of beef produces about 750 grams of greenhouse gases, and insect production has 100 times less impact on the climate.”
The Zirp bars in the varieties “Apple Strudel”, “Apricot” and “Sour Cherry” have been available to order in the online shop since mid-February. “At dm we focus on organic and fundamentally a vegetarian-vegan approach in our food range. By listing climate-friendly protein alternatives, we want to give our customers the opportunity to try out this offer,” says Managing Director Harald Bauer.
The first products quickly sold out in February.
Spokeswoman Carina Besl explains why dm is only now publicly advertising the bar: “The first products sold out so quickly that it was decided to wait until the product was available again.”
The Viennese company ZIRP has been working since 2011 on introducing insects as part of a healthy diet. In addition to high-quality proteins, the insects also contain fiber and valuable micronutrients. The protein suppliers come from domestic production systems. “We are very pleased with the new trading partnership with dm,” says founder Christoph Thomann.
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
