The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations promotes edible insects as an alternative source of protein that can be introduced into human diets as well as animal feed. It is estimated that over two billion people worldwide rely on more than 1 900 insect species as food sources, and these include approximately 43 species of termites belonging to four families.
Preparation methods for insects include boiling, steaming and frying. After preparation, the insects can be preserved either by keeping them in a fridge or freezer. If uncooked, they can be sun-dried.
The practice of entomophagy, the technical term for consuming insects, has gained prominence in Asia, Africa, North America and Australia. Although the practice is still in its infancy in Europe, the European Food Safety Authority in 2015 suggested a list of insect species with high potential for use as food for humans and feed for animals.
AFRICA
Africa is ranked as the continent with the highest number of insect eaters, followed by the Americas and Asia. In Africa, the practice is particularly popular in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Kenya and Nigeria. In these countries, a number of termite species are regarded as a delicacy.
South Africa’s rural areas face poverty, unemployment and food insecurity, and the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated these socioeconomic factors. Households in the Vhembe district of Limpopo, where edible termites already form an important part of the diet in rural households, have responded by increasing their adoption of entomophagy. Communities in this area are engaged in harvesting edible termites and commercialising production.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.