The invention relates to a method for treating insects, comprising the separation of the cuticles from the soft part of the insects, the separation being performed using a belt separator, and a step of maturation of the soft part of the insects, which step is carried out without diluting the soft part of the insects in a solvent. The invention further relates to powders, in particular a powder obtainable by the method of treating insects according to the invention, and to the use of these powders in food.