Minerals and trace elements.
Insects generally contain little calcium and high levels of phosphorus. Insects in nature only contain slightly more calcium than cultivated insects. This is mainly attributable to the fact that, in the wild, insects are often on the ground. The calcium percentage of cultivated insects such as wax moth larvae, buffalo worms, mealworms and house crickets, can easily be increased tenfold by providing them with a calcium-rich diet. Research has shown, however, that the calcium absorbed is almost exclusively to be found in the digestive system, with very low levels in the insect's body.
The high percentage of phosphorus in insects is also 100% available, while vegetable phosphorus is only 30% available.
Most insects also contain a significant amount of macro-minerals such as magnesium, salt, potassium and chlorine compounds. Trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese and selenium are also available and can be absorbed in substantial amounts.