Are Insects Sentient And Capable Of Suffering? Read On To Find Out

With the ever-increasing human population, the demand for food production keeps rising globally. Hence, to meet this ever-rising need for food solutions, there are several places where insects are being farmed for food. Not only is this proposed as a solution to food shortage for humans, but it is also used to feed domesticated livestock. However, one must wonder about what is really known about the inner workings of these little creatures. Do they suffer? Are they conscious?

Read on to discover all this and more about this miniature livestock.

Insects have a range of cognitive abilities

Studies have shown that a variety of species of insects in several spheres have been known to possess a lot of cognitive abilities. In spite of their miniature brains, insects do seem to be to perform complex functions like facial recognition, tool use and even numerical comprehension. Some other features of insect behaviour like communication and navigation have also kept scientists busy in trying to study how insects are able to thrive. Furthermore, experts have conducted a lot of research to discern whether the insects from several diverse species experience significant emotional conditions such as stress.

Sadly, the thriving market for insects in various countries sees them being used as feed for other creatures and food for humans. Nevertheless, the research conducted so far proves that humans still know very little about the cerebral minds of insects and their ability to experience pain in the farming process.

Crickets Being Farmed In Thailand For Food

Facts on sentience and cognition

Experts have conducted studies to learn more about insect sentience and cognition. In fact, their findings have ensured that a great deal of published scientific literature pertains to educating people about how these minuscule creatures feel pain and are self-aware. Over the past 31 years scientists have identified a number of species of insects that are sentient and their use for farming is being reconsidered. It is one of the key reasons why edible insects are now on the worldwide policy agenda. 

What the future holds for insect farming

The global markets are blossoming and using insects as a food source as well as feed are being considered. While this seems to be on the rise, it is time to reconsider farming them and let them live and thrive in nature as they possess cognitive abilities and can experience complex emotions. Therefore, experts have been hoping that their findings will rouse supplementary investigations and successive policy advancements that put an end to insect farming. After all, it is in the best interests of everyone involved to modify and end any potential negative impact to animal welfare.

Going for plant-based food and plant-based alternatives to meat is a sustainable and cruelty-free way of life. It is certainly the way to go if you wish to live a humane existence in perfect harmony with nature!

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