The use of insect protein for livestock feed may provide a more sustainable alternative to fishmeal and imported protein-rich feed. Little is known about societal acceptability between and within different actor groups on a European level. To gain an understanding of reasons and arguments for acceptance or rejection of this innovation, a qualitative content analysis was carried out on feedback from stakeholders and citizens given during an EU public consultation. Value-based arguments were analysed in order to determine the degree of acceptability decisions and factors influencing acceptability. This will give insight into attitudes from different perspectives, where conflict lines may arise amongst actor groups and whether or not the innovation is considered acceptable for a development towards a sustainable bioeconomy.