Insects Eaten in Africa

Insects are a popular diet staple in many countries. While rural and poor areas are most taken with the idea of eating insects, some countries qualify species as delicacies that come with a hefty price tag due to their effects. In Africa, for example, some insects are said to have medicinal as well as spiritual effects if eaten.

One of the many insects that are eaten in Africa is the desert locust. This insect is eaten especially in Algeria by mostly poor people after being soaked in salt water and roasted under the sun. The reason for soaking in salty water is for taste purposes, although some opt to not soak them at all and eat the insect as is. The desert locust can be a valuable source of protein.

Algerians' decision to eat these desert locusts came after their crops were repeatedly being eaten by them. The locusts would ravage the local crops every year, so Algerian residents made them a part of their diet as a way to keep these "desert shrimp" under control.

Another insect that is popularly eaten in Africa are caterpillars. Many different species are consumed, and each has a distinct form of preparation. One of them is where the legs are removed, and then the caterpillar is deep fried. Depending on whether the species of caterpillar being cooked feeds on plants that are toxic, the guts are removed during preparation before cooking.

Another way caterpillars are prepared to be eaten in Africa is by removing the insides and roasting the skins in the sun. They can also be preserved in jars with spices for later use and maximum taste. Caterpillars are considered a delicacy and a great source of nutritional value. Some species eat plants that make them chock full of vitamins and nutrients some poor people in Africa would not have available otherwise, so this makes eating this bug visceral to their survival.

As a matter of fact, the mopane worm has become a multi-million dollar export for African nations. It is viewed as a densely vitamin and protein packed edible insect with the ability to taste like whatever it is seasoned with. It comes dry as well as moist packaged.

Termites and ants are both another popular edible insect consumed as a valuable form of protein in Africa. After removing the legs and wings, termites and ants can be eaten right after catching or dried in the sun for later use. The thorax of these bugs is almost purely protein and available in most areas. They are also easy to collect because of their high concentrations around their nests.

Yet another insect commonly consumed in Africa are crickets. These are found in almost any area and can be varying species. They can be fried, smoked, or roasted in the sun. Crickets are crunchy and can even be candied in some parts.

Insects can be a valuable and plentiful source of nutrition. Edible species can be found in all habitats on earth, and can prove to be visceral for people's existence in many countries. While most of us may find them gross, remember that even the processed foods we consume have a percentage made up of insects! We just don't see them.

Sources:

www.questia.com/PM.qst?a=o&d=5001183814