Insect Delicacies You Can Enjoy And Their Health Benefits

According to healthline Maybe we have been overlooking insects, which are actually a great source of protein all along. There is a wide variety of edible insects in Nigeria, and some locals have figured out which ones they are.

Since eating insects (entomophagy) has been proved to have several health benefits, it should become more common.

These readily available, cheap, and nutrient-rich insects can stand in for red meat and pork.

Here are five bugs that Nigerians love to snack on:

The wingless termite, or akubembe:

Some Igbos consider this a delicacy. They come in large quantities after it rains and can be used in a variety of ways once they are harvested.

You can make a crispy and tasty meal out of these by roasting, frying, or even sun-drying them. Since they are high in calcium and iron, they are excellent for preventing bone loss and maintaining blood health.

Maiduguri, Borno State, natives report that grasshoppers are one of the most abundant insects in their area. You can eat grasshoppers fried in salt or roasted with ground dry pepper.

They’re rich in proteins and minerals that boost metabolism and they’re crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.

Thirdly, crickets: most people have only seen crickets as noisy nighttime pests; they are often unaware that crickets are a high-protein, high-fat diet that can help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Crickets can be prepared in the same ways as other insects, including by drying, frying, or roasting. In terms of vitamins and minerals, they are excellent.

The larvae of the palm weevil are a popular food item in the southeastern United States. Their common association with palm trees provides the inspiration for their names

We often roast them after washing, salting, and drying them. Travelers frequently see these being sold by hawkers at intersections.

The Igbos are the ones who gave this food its current name, Ololo (Caterpillar).

You can eat them on their own, or pair them with other regional specialties like “Ugba.” The proteins and healthy fats in caterpillars help to fortify blood and protect against anemia.

What kind of bug do people in your area love eating? Please follow, comment, and like for further health advice.