Exo Inc.

Exo Inc.

Cricket Flour Energy Bar

Exo Inc. is a company that specializes in the production of food products made from cricket flour, a sustainable and protein-rich alternative to traditional animal-based proteins. Founded in 2013, Exo Inc. has been at the forefront of the edible insect movement, promoting the nutritional and environmental benefits of incorporating insects into the human diet.

History

Exo Inc. was founded by Gabi Lewis and Greg Sewitz, two graduates from Brown University. The idea for the company emerged from a desire to address the global challenges of food security and sustainability. Recognizing the potential of insects as a viable protein source, Lewis and Sewitz set out to create a product that would appeal to Western consumers.

The company launched its first product, the Exo Protein Bar, in 2014 after a successful Kickstarter campaign. The bars were formulated with cricket flour, which is made by grinding whole crickets into a fine powder. This ingredient is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it an ideal component for a nutritious snack.

Products

Exo Inc. offers a range of products that incorporate cricket flour as a primary ingredient. The flagship product, the Exo Protein Bar, comes in various flavors such as peanut butter and jelly, blueberry vanilla, and cocoa nut. These bars are designed to provide a convenient and healthy snack option for consumers looking to increase their protein intake while reducing their environmental footprint.

In addition to protein bars, Exo Inc. has expanded its product line to include protein powders and baking mixes, all featuring cricket flour. These products cater to health-conscious consumers and those interested in sustainable eating practices.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Cricket flour is considered a sustainable protein source due to the low environmental impact of cricket farming. Crickets require significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock such as cattle, pigs, and chickens. Additionally, crickets produce fewer greenhouse gases, making them an environmentally friendly alternative.

Exo Inc. emphasizes the importance of sustainability in its business model, aiming to reduce the ecological footprint of food production. By promoting cricket-based products, the company seeks to raise awareness about the benefits of entomophagy, the practice of eating insects.

Challenges and Market Reception

While Exo Inc. has been successful in introducing cricket-based products to the market, the company faces challenges related to consumer perception and acceptance. In many Western cultures, the idea of eating insects is met with skepticism and cultural resistance. To overcome these barriers, Exo Inc. focuses on educating consumers about the nutritional benefits and sustainability of cricket flour.

The company has also leveraged marketing strategies that highlight the taste and quality of their products, often collaborating with chefs and nutritionists to develop appealing recipes and endorsements.

Related Pages

• Entomophagy
• Sustainable food
• Protein bar
• Insect farming