How can we face the challenge of future nutrition security? Insects offer a high quality, efficient and sustainable alternative to the common protein sources, and have the capacity to valorise organic side streams. As such, insects can close the loop in a circular economy. The current issue of Journal of Insects as Food and Feed is related to the international conference 'Edible insects: the value chain'. The papers presented link to research related to rearing, processing, nutrition and health, and consumer behaviour. Future chain development would benefit from further multi- and interdisciplinary knowledge gain. Also, other factors are important, like business development, enabling regulation, increased marketing and promotion, and fostering industrial partnership. These activities require collaboration among the actors within the insect chain.