Interview with Christian Bärtsch
Christian Bärtsch, with your company, Essento, you are striving to revolutionize our eating behavior. Why do you think this is necessary?
Our eating habits are very resource-intensive. We need to change how we think – and insects are a fascinating alternative.
What was your personal motivation?
Why will products made of edible insects be so important in future?
Insects offer a fascinating array of delicious flavors, valuable nutrients, and resource-efficient production.
Many people are put off eating grasshoppers or mealworms. Did you feel like that, too?
In the video, you say that people in the West have not yet got used to the idea of eating insects. How do you intend to change that?
We are currently doing a lot of work to give as many people as possible the chance to try edible insects.
Have you also managed to convince your own family and friends?
How exactly is your work at Essento divided up? How much is lobbying, how much marketing, and how much developing products?
Our current concern is with making the products available to as many people as possible, and naturally also developing other delicious foods.
For centuries, Zurich has been the birthplace of significant ideas and approaches that are relevant to society. What is it that makes Zurich an attractive location for you?
Do you think that you can also make an impact outside Switzerland?
That is our firm intention – and I believe we have the best possible conditions to do so from our base here in Zurich.
What exactly does the “lifestyle of the future” mean?
Are Zurich and Switzerland advanced in terms of nutrition and legislation when it comes to edible insects?
Most definitely. The Swiss authorities have taken a huge step in legalizing the first three types of insects. The trend over the past few years shows that the Swiss are ready for edible insects.
