When two roommates at Brown University first introduced their idea of protein bars made with crushed up insects, they heard way more than just crickets.
The response to Exo protein bars has been overwhelmingly positive that yes, cricket flour is now a thing – a good thing that just raked in another $4 million in funding just last week.
Founders Greg Sewitz and Gabi Lewis created Exo bars in January 2013 after Greg attended an MIT conference which discussed insects’ incredible environmental benefits and sustainability compared to other food sources when it came to protein. The two decided to add crickets to Gabi’s basic nutrition bar recipe they had originally created because of a lack of options that were high enough in protein to suit to his Paleo Diet.
It might be surprising to those who might cringe at the idea, but according to their research, 80-percent of the world regularly eats insects because it’s packed with protein, easy to access and better for the environment.
In 2013, Sewitz and Lewis ordered 2,000 live crickets to their house on Brown University’s campus. They created “Cricket Flour” which looks like brown sugar’s twin brother. So, to the naked eye, you’d be eating something completely normal. They combined it with dates, honey and chocolate and mashed up a protein bar that was a hit among friends – the original Exo bar was born.
In under two years, the two graduated college, moved to New York City where they partnered with a Michelin-starred chef, and raised over $1 million from Kickstarter funds and various investors. Their latest boost in investments came from investors that included Tim Ferris (Creator of 4-hour-work-week) and rap legend Nas.
Exo offers Cocoa Nut, Blueberry Vanilla and even some “savory” options like Mango Curry and BBQ. You can get a discounted sampler pack by signing up for the email list on their website. (www.exoprotein.com).
It seems many are convinced that crickets might just save the world. Watch founder Greg Sewitz explain why in the video below:
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