Asia Zanzot Contact:: asia.zanzot@phd.unipi.itORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-9388-8937 Thesis supervisors: Dott. Simone Mancini (supervisor), Dott.ssa Erminia Sezzi (co-supervisor) Project title: Edible insects in the organic supply chain Abstract: Edible insects farming is an emerging sector in the food and feed industry. One of its strengths is the sustainability of their production, especially when compared to conventional livestock, as they require little space and fewer resources while providing good nutritional values. The production of edible insects could therefore integrate well with the organic supply chain, which promotes sustainability, biodiversity, and animal welfare, by following natural and low-impact practices. To be certified organic, the prpduction must follow strict criteria and parameters set by the organic supply chain regulation. However, at present, edible insects are not included in the organic regulation. To develop this sector, specific guidelines are needed, considering the significant difference between common farm animals and insects. The aim of the project is to examine how edible insect production can be adapted to organic regulation. Evaluations will be carried out on the use of organic substrates and the potential use of organic wastes, on the metabolism of artificial substances (which are limited in organic farming), and on animal welfare, a key point of organic farming.