Potential of grasshoppers as a halal alternative protein in Malaysia

Tukiran, Nur Azira and Yunaidi, Nik Nurhadirah and Roslan, RabiatulAdawiah and Jamaludin, Mohammad Aizat and Fadzillah, Nurrulhidayah (2025) Potential of grasshoppers as a halal alternative protein in Malaysia. International Food Research Journal, 32 (4). pp. 903-919. ISSN 1985-4668 E-ISSN 2231-7546

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Abstract

As global populations rise and the demand for sustainable protein sources intensifies, entomophagy, the practice of consuming insects, has emerged as a promising alternative. However, in Malaysia, entomophagy remains a niche practice, with grasshopper consumption largely confined to rural and indigenous communities in regions such as Kelantan, Terengganu, and Sabah. This review explores the potential of grasshoppers as a halal alternative protein source in Malaysia by systematically reviewing the literature on their nutritional benefits, compliance with Islamic dietary laws, consumer acceptance, and regulatory challenges. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Scopus, Emerald Insight, PubMed, and Google Scholar, identifying five relevant studies published between 2019 and 2024, selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. These studies were analysed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, with key themes synthesised narratively, focusing on nutritional potential, religious concerns, and consumer acceptance of insects. The findings reveal that grasshoppers are considered halal according to shariah laws. Grasshoppers are nutritionally rich, containing high-quality protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. However, their acceptance among Malaysian is relatively limited due to concerns about their texture, perceived food safety risks, and strong cultural taboos against insect consumption, particularly in urban areas. Additionally, the absence of insect-specific legislation adds to consumer hesitation. This review highlights the limited number of local studies, the early stage of consumer behaviour research, and the critical need for targeted educational initiatives, regulatory reforms, and innovative product development to overcome cultural and sensory barriers. These efforts are essential to realise the potential of grasshoppers as a sustainable and halal protein source in Malaysia

Item Type:	Article (Review)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	halal protein, entomophagy, grasshoppers, PRISMA, Malaysia
Subjects:	BPC Science and Technology in Islam BPC Science and Technology in Islam > BPC158 Agriculture. Sustainable agriculture
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute for Halal Research and Training (INHART)
Depositing User:	Nur Azira Tukiran
Date Deposited:	16 Mar 2026 09:53
Last Modified:	16 Mar 2026 09:53
Queue Number:	2026-03-Q2551
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/127922

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