Eating Fried Insects in Thailand: How Safe is It ? Here Are the Facts If You Really Want to Try Them


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Last Updated on 2022-10-28 , 2:45 pm

Eating insects have never crossed my mind – I hate insects especially the insects that fly. But countries in Southeast Asia like Thailand do sell fried insects along the streets.

If you have never tried it before but you are keen to, then you need to read this article.

Not all insects can be eaten
Especially brightly coloured insects. They’re most likely to be poisonous so that’s one thing you need to avoid. These insects aren’t sold along the streets of Thailand (we hope) but if you do feel tempted to fry on of your own, go for those brown coloured insects.

There are more than 1,900 edible species
That’s right, 1,900. That includes roaches (not the house kinds), cicadas, ants, bees, crickets etc.

The U.N recommends eating insects
First thought that goes in my head is “EW what why!!!” but well it seems that insects are becoming another source of food especially since there are many edible species.

Two billion people eat insects regularly
Looks like you’re not the only one. Eating insects has become a thing and is rather natural to certain countries. Some eat it cooked, some eat it raw. To each his own.

Insects are good for the body
Well it varies from bug to bug. However, bugs are said to contain proteins, fiber, good fats and vital minerals that is good for the human body. Insects like grasshoppers are high in iron so it’s good for those anemic people.

It’s unsafe if you are allergic 
It’s just like any other allergy reaction. If you’re allergic to anything found in an insect then you mustn’t consume them unless you have a death wish.

Cooked insects are safer
Because cooking them gets rid of the bacteria and whatever germs that lurks. However, even cooked insects may have spore forming bacteria, thus spoiling your insects. That’ll make you sick, just like eating spoiled meat.

Consuming insects might also be legal in Singapore, soon. Watch this to the end and you’d understand:

Featured Image: nicemyphoto / Shutterstock.com