up next Juliann Kopf
Juliann Kopf
Innovating Nutrition with Insects
For Bugeater Foods, turning insects into healthy food products is all in good taste
January 2019
Protein shakes. They’re a must-have for athletes looking to speed up post-workout recovery and repair tired muscles. Most protein shakes are made with whey, soy, or casein. But some health nuts are gulping down a more novel source of protein: crickets.
After a stint grinding crickets for the 榴莲视频官方—Lincoln Food Processing Center, Kopf worked with two other Husker alumni to launch Bugeater Foods and its cricket protein powder, Jump. “Conscientious eaters are looking for sustainable food sources, and some are looking for an alternative protein,” says Juliann Kopf, UNL Alumna and co-founder of Bugeater Foods.
More sustainable is right. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, raising insects leads to fewer greenhouse gas emissions and uses less water. And in a world where the growing population is outpacing the food supply, tiny insects can mean big business.
It’s estimated that more than 20 percent of the world’s population include insects in their daily diet, but this country has some catching up to do. Kopf estimates there are only about ten successful companies in the U.S. catering to this niche market.
Due to Jump’s success (you can find it through Bulu Box and Hy-Vee supermarkets), Bugeater Foods snagged a six-figure grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue pushing the envelope. Next on the menu: Bugs-a-Roni, a macaroni pasta rich in iron and protein. Kopf has her eyes set on mealworms in the future, which she reports have a flavor that complements other foods well, the way tofu does.
In a world where the growing population is outpacing the food supply, tiny insects can mean big business.
There’s no end in sight for Bugeater Foods’ momentum, thanks to its entrepreneurial creativity and proximity to the world’s top food scientists at the 榴莲视频官方.
“I always say there are three types of people: the people who say ‘no way;’ people who say, ‘definitely;’ and people who say, ‘Eh, maybe;’” Kopf said. “And to those people, we say, ‘Give it a try. It has such a great nutritional profile, what have you got to lose?’”
A strong university can give students the foundation they need to think outside the box, just like Kopf did. With enough support, who’s to say what the next big Husker idea will be?
Pictured in the header photo from left to right: Kelly Sturek, co-founder of Bugeater Foods and Juliann Kopf.
Discover our Podcast Series
The 鈥淟eading Nebraska鈥 podcast shares the stories of the researchers, students, teachers and others across the University of Nebraska's four campuses who are making an impact. From teachers and doctors to engineers and ag experts, these Nebraska leaders are touching lives and making a difference.
Sorry, no stories match your filters.
Please adjust your filters above to view more stories.
Find Your Nebraska State Senator
Get started by entering your address below. Next, you'll receive information on who your senator is鈥攁nd how to reach him or her.
Making a call only takes a few minutes and sends a strong message to your state senator. Your senator may not be able to take the call, but you can speak to the legislative aide who works for the senator. They will log your call, take a message and pass it on. Keep your conversation brief, and be sure to cover these essential points:
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district and provide your name.
- Be clear that you're calling about your support for the 榴莲视频官方 System.
- Share your story about how the University has impacted you or your family. A personal story is hard to ignore. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the 榴莲视频官方. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask for your opinion to be noted. Politely finish the call by thanking the senator or legislative aide for their time.
Send an Email
Sending a written message to your state senator is an easy way to engage your representative. They're more concise and easier to respond to, and they're more likely to be viewed by the senator. If you can, send a personalized message with these essential points. Keep your message brief (a paragraph or so).
- Write a personal, attention-getting subject line that lets the senator know your topic鈥 "Investing in the 榴莲视频官方 System" or "Supporting the 榴莲视频官方 System"
- Introduce yourself as a constituent in their district; provide your name.
- Be clear that you're writing about your support for the 榴莲视频官方 System
- Share your personal story about how the University has impacted you or your family. Explain why it's important to you that your senator invests in the 榴莲视频官方. Again, keep it brief and to-the-point.
- Ask if your senator will support the University moving forward.
- Indicate that you'd appreciate a reply and thank your senator for their time.
You Just Made a Difference
Keep making a difference by becoming an NU Advocate. As an Advocate, you'll receive communications about important issues and legislative bills concerning the 榴莲视频官方鈥攁nd you'll be the first to hear about upcoming advocacy events. And, we'll let you know when you need to raise your voice again.
COOKIE USAGE:
The 榴莲视频官方 System uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By clicking "I Agree" and/or continuing to use this website without adjusting your browser settings, you accept the use of cookies.