IMPACT OF INSECTS ON FOOD SECURITY IN PANAMA

A country's food security represents the cornerstone of nutrition, as well as, economic and social development. There are several factors that can impact food security, among which insects stand out. This paper is a review of the impact of insects on food security in Panama. The study was developed through the search for relevant published information associated with the subject, considering three fundamental aspects: pest insects; beneficial insects (natural enemies, pollinators); and insects as food for humans and animals, from a general perspective. Regarding the latter, insects represent one of the most important protein production alternatives for the future, both in Panama and worldwide, considering the existing nutritional and food security deficiencies.