Five insects people eat and their health benefits
The idea of creatures that crawl on the floor or buzz around your ears as food sounds bizarre, right? Well, in many parts of Asia, Africa, and South America, this is quite normal. Though thinking about it may make you feel like puking, healthwise, insects provide a wealth of nutrition. Let us discover five fascinating edible insects that challenge our perception of what's delicious.
Here's what our expert says
Insects as a food source are a good source of low-calorie digestible proteins, vitamins like vitamin A, B12, riboflavin(B2), and minerals like calcium, manganese, iron, and copper. Insects are also a great source of healthy unsaturated fats. They have been used in certain parts of the world for their dietary benefits since ages. However caution is advised, not all insects are edible.
Termites
Yes, those same termites which we call deemak, cause massive destruction to wooden window panels, doors, and beds. In Africa and Asia, some communities eat termites with great enthusiasm. Rich in manganese, a vital mineral for metabolism, strong bones, and a robust immune system, termites boast an astonishing 100 times more of this mineral than other insects.
Crickets
Adult crickets can actually be quite nutritious. They are full of iron, protein, and vitamin B12, which are all things that your body needs to stay healthy. Crickets can be prepared in various ways, but one of the sneakiest methods is grinding them into a powder! This special 'cricket flour' can then be added to protein shakes and even flour used for making chips.
Grasshoppers
These fascinating creatures are a hit worldwide, especially in Mexico, Latin America, and certain parts of Africa and Asia. They have higher protein content than many other animal and plant sources like chicken, eggs, and beans. In Mexico, people usually cook grasshoppers by toasting them in oil with garlic, lemon, and salt, which makes them tasty.
Ants
In some Asian countries, the larvae and pupae of the weaver ant are incredibly popular. People in South America also enjoy them as a special treat, especially when skilled chefs use them in fancy meals. These insects are not only delicious but also super good for you. Packed with protein, iron, zinc, and polyphenols, they have a tangy, citrusy taste.
Cicadas
Cicadas are not just noisy insects, but also a healthy source of nutrients. While we don't have exact details about their nutritional content, we do know that they are rich in protein and low in fat. However, if you are allergic to seafood like shrimp and lobsters, it is best to avoid eating cicadas because they are related to them.
