From Disgust to Relish — An Exploration in the Swiss Market for Insect Food
How can design inspire a positive shift in the way insect food is perceived nowadays?
A recently approved law has given life to a new industry for insect food in the Swiss market. Consequently, entrepreneurs and start-ups have started to develop consumer products using insects as a raw material. However, cultural barriers related to disgust challenge the acceptance of insects as part of a regular western diet.
This project explores how design can influence the acceptance of insect food. Through a series of experiments with insect food, the project suggests how the disgust barriers could be broken. A new experience of eating insects, embedded in a welcoming environment and motivated by an attractive visual presentation of the food, will inspire consumers to overcome personal barriers — transforming disgust into relish.