On 23 October, the world will mark World Edible Insect Day, a global movement that celebrates insects as a sustainable and nutrient-dense food source. As international interest in edible insects continues to grow, a proudly South African company, Matomani, is leading the way by transforming the humble Mopani caterpillar into a modern superfood that benefits both people and the planet.
The global edible insect market is gaining remarkable momentum. It is projected to reach a value of more than 556 million US dollars in 2025, with steady growth anticipated through 2033. Around two billion people across the world already consume insects as part of their regular diet, with the highest consumption seen in Asia and Africa. In recent years, consumers have become more aware of the nutritional and environmental benefits of insect-based products, particularly as food insecurity and rising protein costs place pressure on conventional food systems. Some projections estimate that the global insect protein market could reach more than 4 billion US dollars by 2035, showing how significant this emerging sector could become.
For Matomani’s founder and CEO, Wendy Vesela-Ntimbani, this shift toward insect-based foods is more than a trend. It represents a return to traditional wisdom and a reimagining of sustainable innovation. Raised in a small Limpopo village, Wendy grew up harvesting Mopani caterpillars with her parents, learning first-hand about their value as both food and livelihood. Those early experiences inspired her to launch Matomani, a brand that blends indigenous knowledge with modern nutrition. “Entomophagy, the practice of eating insects, is more relevant than ever as we face food insecurity and rising costs of animal protein,” she says. “Our hope is to build a strong relationship between Mopani-harvesting communities and health-aware consumers around the world.”
Mopani caterpillars are emerging as one of the most sustainable and nutrient-rich protein sources available. They contain about 60 percent protein by weight, compared to approximately 23 percent in beef and 26 percent in chicken. Mopani protein is also rich in essential amino acids, dietary fibre, healthy fats including omega-3s, and minerals such as iron, calcium and phosphorus. From an environmental perspective, Mopani caterpillars are highly efficient. It takes only three kilograms of Mopani leaves to produce one kilogram of Mopani caterpillars, while cattle require around ten kilograms of feed to yield the same amount of beef. The result is a protein source that delivers more nutrition with far fewer natural resources.
Sustainability remains central to Matomani’s mission. Insect farming and Mopani harvesting require less land, water and energy than traditional livestock production. They generate significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions and do not rely on synthetic chemicals or antibiotics. By working closely with rural harvesting communities, Matomani ensures that its products are organic, ethically sourced and traceable, while also supporting job creation and skills development in Limpopo. “Our Mopani caterpillars come from remote Mopani tree forests and are all natural, free from chemicals, pesticides and hormones,” says Wendy. “We care deeply about the local communities where our worms are sourced and are committed to improving their lives through training and employment.”
Matomani is reimagining the way South Africans experience Mopani caterpillars by turning this nutrient-rich, sustainable protein source into a variety of convenient and modern foods. Its range includes hand-picked dried Mopani caterpillars, Mopani protein powder, high-protein biscuits, and the newest addition, protein and nutrition bars made from Mopani protein powder. The caterpillars are dried, crushed into a fine powder, and transformed into organic, protein-packed bars that are high in fibre, omega-3s, amino acids, and essential minerals. These functional snacks make it easy and delicious for athletes, busy professionals, and curious consumers to enjoy the health and sustainability benefits of Mopani protein.
As the world celebrates World Edible Insect Day, Wendy hopes more people will be inspired to look at food differently. “Small creatures may hold a big key to our food future,” she says. “If we elevate insects from novelty to nutritious staple, we can enrich diets, protect ecosystems and uplift communities at the same time.”