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BBC Inside Science

Why aren’t we eating more insects?

Sep 19, 2024
Join Peter Smithers, an entomologist; Aaron Thomas, co-founder of Yum Bug; and Dr. Emily Porter, a gut health dietician, as they explore the future of food with insects. Discover how cricket tacos might revolutionize our plates and what makes insects a sustainable protein option. They tackle misconceptions, share the nutritional benefits of insects, and delve into cultural attitudes towards eating them. With humor and a live audience's participation, the discussion is both enlightening and appetizing!
27:54

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Insects, particularly crickets, offer a nutritious protein source packed with essential amino acids, fiber, and healthy fats compared to traditional meats.
  • Cultural perceptions and squeamishness surrounding insect consumption are significant barriers, but education and tasting experiences may encourage wider acceptance.

Deep dives

Insects as a Sustainable Food Source

Insects are gaining attention as a sustainable alternative to traditional sources of protein due to their high efficiency in converting feed into protein. With an estimated 8 to 12 million undiscovered insect species and a quintillion insects likely existing at any given moment, their potential role as food is immense. Countries like Mexico and China already incorporate various insects into their diets, showcasing their value beyond just survival during hard times. This growing interest in eating insects could be pivotal in addressing global food supply challenges as the population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, necessitating more efficient methods of protein production.

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