People in Singapore have more chocies of Insect Food. Singapore’s food regulatory agency, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA), has redefined what’s on the menu in the island nation. In a move that might make some squirm, the SFA has approved a whopping 16 insect species for human consumption.
This isn’t some wild west bug buffet situation though. The approved creepy-crawlies, which range from grasshoppers to beetle grubs, can only be imported if they’re “farmed in premises regulated by the Competent Authority,” according to the SFA press release reported by CNN. Think of it like the difference between serving wild game and farm-raised beef at a restaurant.
So what kind of insect delicacies can Singaporeans expect as food?
- Western honey bee/European honey bee
- Silkworm/silk moth
- Lesser wax moth
- Honeycomb moth/greater wax moth
- Giant Rhino beetle grub
- Whitegrub
- Mealworm
- Lesser mealworm
- Superworm beetles/giant mealworm beetle/king mealworm
- Grasshopper
- American desert locust/desert locust
- African migratory locust
- Black/field cricket/two-spotted cricket
- Common/field cricket
- Banded cricket
- House cricket
Local restaurants are already buzzing with excitement, with House of Seafood planning a menu featuring 30 insect-based dishes and InsectYumz offering a smorgasbord of entomological edibles.
But why the bug revolution? Experts see entomophagy, or insect consumption, as a potential solution to environmental concerns. Research suggests crickets, for example, are a protein powerhouse, requiring significantly less feed than beef. Plus, insect farming is considered more sustainable than traditional livestock production.
While the idea of munching on insects might be off-putting to some, particularly in the US, Singapore’s move reflects a growing global trend towards exploring alternative protein sources. So next time you’re in Singapore, don’t be surprised if you’re offered a side of crickets with your dinner – it could be the future of food.
What do you think of Singapore Insect Food? Comment and let us know.
Also read about, Man Caught Smuggling Over 100 Snakes in His Pants at Chinese Airport
