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Vanqa N, Mshayisa VV, Basitere M. Macrotermes subhylanus flour inclusion in biscuits: Effects on nutritional, sensorial and microbial characteristics. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32702. [PMID: 38975077 PMCID: PMC11226819 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
As the world's population expands, edible insects have been proposed as a food source that might address issues related to nutrition, health, the environment, and the economy. This study aimed to create a novel biscuit by adding Macrotermes subhylanus (M. Subhylanus) flour to wheat flour in various concentrations (5,10, 15 and 20 %). The moisture content of the insect composite flours varied between 6.83 % and 7.76 %, whereas the moisture content of the biscuits ranged from 2.86 % to 7.90 %. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was noted in the protein content of both the composite flours and biscuits as the concentration of insect flour increased, with values ranging from 15.03 % to 21.52 % for the flours and 17.38 % to 20.63 % for the biscuits. The lightness (L*) of the composite flours significantly decreased (p < 0.05) with higher additions of edible insect flour, whereas the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) attributes did not show any statistical differences (p > 0.05). The biscuits were generally darker than the composite flours, as indicated by substantially lower L* values. The water activity of the biscuits was between 0.44 and 0.67. Sensory evaluation revealed that the substitution level (up to 15 %) is ideal for preparing acceptable insect-based biscuits. The panellist perceived no significant differences (p > 0.05) in terms of the texture between the insect-enriched biscuits and the control, except for MZ-20. The absence of pathogenic microogranisms in all baked biscuits containing edible insect flour highlights the effectiveness of heat treatment, ensuring that the biscuits meet microbiological safety guidelines. Additionally, Macrotermes subhylanus flour shows promise as a novel functional ingredient for the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nthabeleng Vanqa
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
| | - Vusi Vincent Mshayisa
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
| | - Moses Basitere
- Academic Support Program for Engineering (ASPECT) in Cape Town, Centre of Higher Education Development University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
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Orkusz A, Orkusz M. Edible Insects in Slavic Culture: Between Tradition and Disgust. INSECTS 2024; 15:306. [PMID: 38786862 PMCID: PMC11121784 DOI: 10.3390/insects15050306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Insects are a conventional food in many cultures worldwide. Why therefore are they treated with aversion by the majority of people in Western countries? The aim of this work is to understand cultural norms and historical practices related to insects that can explain why in the countries of the West it is so difficult to accept them as a foodstuff, and why the disgust that they arouse is more common than in other regions of the world. Insects in Western countries are associated with negative experiences resulting from cultural and religious beliefs, traditions, stories, myths and individual experiences. Although there are species of insect that have positive associations, the high number of negative terms popularized the negative image of these creatures in people's minds, as a result of which the concept of insects as a foodstuff arouses disgust in the culture of the West. Understanding the aversion to insects will contribute to the broader understanding of consumer attitudes, cultural influences on consumption, or potential shifts in food choices. It also can help develop strategies or methods that will assist in changing this reluctance and encourage the utilization of insects as a food source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Orkusz
- Department of Biotechnology and Food Analysis, Wroclaw University of Economics and Business, 53-345 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Martyna Orkusz
- Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Science, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Gordon M, Peña AN, Beal T, Bezner Kerr R. Suitability of Alternative Protein Foods for Agroecological Approaches to Address Nutrition in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:101998. [PMID: 38476720 PMCID: PMC10926127 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Agroecology has been proposed as a holistic approach to transform food systems that meet global food requirements with favorable environmental and social impacts. Agroecology relies on science, practices, and social movements that emphasize ecological principles, local knowledge, culture, and traditions to increase the sustainability and equity of the food system. Agroecological practices have demonstrated positive outcomes on food security and nutrition in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Agroecology principles can be applied across the food system and could facilitate the integration of certain alternative protein (AP) foods to address multiple issues. In this perspective, agroecological principles were analyzed to compare the suitability of different AP sources: unprocessed/minimally processed legumes, plant-based meats, edible insects, macroalgae (seaweed), fungal biomass, and cultivated meat. Considerations were identified for the feasibility of AP adoption in LMICs within an agroecological framework to provide nutrient-rich and sustainable diets while addressing other principles such as fairness and economic diversity. From this analysis, legumes, simplified plant-based meat analogs such as texturized plant proteins with minimal additives, edible insects, and macroalgae (location dependent) would make excellent nutritional contributions alongside animal-sourced food within LMICs within an agroecological framework. In contrast, highly processed plant-based meats, fungal biomass, and cultivated meat do not align well with agroecological principles for large-scale human consumption within LMICs. Furthermore, the production facilities to make these foods require robust capital investment and there may be issues related to who owns the intellectual property of these technologies. The NOVA classification system categorizes food based on the degree of processing. Our assessment suggests that foods with lower NOVA classification of unprocessed and minimally processed best fit the agroecological principles related to nutrition, agroecosystem, and societal demands for sustainable food systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Molly Gordon
- Center for Cell Dynamics, Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Alexis N. Peña
- Translational Tissue Engineering Center, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ty Beal
- Knowledge Leadership, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Rachel Bezner Kerr
- Department of Global Development, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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Kolobe SD, Manyelo TG, Malematja E, Sebola NA, Mabelebele M. Fats and major fatty acids present in edible insects utilised as food and livestock feed. Vet Anim Sci 2023; 22:100312. [PMID: 37736572 PMCID: PMC10509705 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2023.100312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Common food sources including meat, fish and vegetables are the main source of fats and fatty acids required by human body. Edible insects such as worms, locusts, termites, crickets and flies have also been identified as a potential source of essential fatty acids since they are highly documented to be rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as α-linolenic and linoleic acids which are vital for the normal functioning of the body. The approval of insects as edible food by the European Union has sparked research interest in their potential to form part of human and animal diets due to their abundant protein, amino acids, fats, and minerals. However, little attention has been given to the importance and health benefits of lipids and fatty acids present in edible insects consumed by human and animals. This article aims to review the biological significance of essential fatty acids found in edible insects. The accumulation of fats and essential fatty acids present in edible insects were identified and described based on recommended levels required in human diets. Furthermore, the health benefits associated with insect oils as well as different processing techniques that could influence the quality of fats and fatty acid in edible insects were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sekobane Daniel Kolobe
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - Tlou Grace Manyelo
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Malematja
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - Nthabiseng Amenda Sebola
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - Monnye Mabelebele
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
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Siddiqui SA, Tettey E, Yunusa BM, Ngah N, Debrah SK, Yang X, Fernando I, Povetkin SN, Shah MA. Legal situation and consumer acceptance of insects being eaten as human food in different nations across the world-A comprehensive review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:4786-4830. [PMID: 37823805 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Insect consumption is a traditional practice in many countries. Currently, the urgent need for ensuring food sustainability and the high pressure from degrading environment are urging food scientists to rethink the possibility of introducing edible insects as a promising food type. However, due to the lack of the standardized legislative rules and the adequate scientific data that demonstrate the safety of edible insects, many countries still consider it a grey area to introduce edible insects into food supply chains. In this review, we comprehensively reviewed the legal situation, consumer willingness, acceptance, and the knowledge on edible insect harvesting, processing as well as their safety concerns. We found that, despite the great advantage of introducing edible insects in food supply chains, the legal situation and consumer acceptance for edible insects are still unsatisfactory and vary considerably in different countries, which mostly depend on geographical locations and cultural backgrounds involving psychological, social, religious, and anthropological factors. Besides, the safety concern of edible insect consumption is still a major issue hurdling the promotion of edible insects, which is particularly concerning for countries with no practice in consuming insects. Fortunately, the situation is improving. So far, some commercial insect products like energy bars, burgers, and snack foods have emerged in the market. Furthermore, the European Union has also recently issued a specific item for regulating new foods, which is believed to establish an authorized procedure to promote insect-based foods and should be an important step for marketizing edible insects in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Technical University of Munich, Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Straubing, Germany
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), D-Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Tettey
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research - Oil Palm Research Institute, Sekondi, Takoradi W/R, Ghana
| | | | - Norhayati Ngah
- Faculty of Bioresources and Food Industry, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Besut, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Shadrack Kwaku Debrah
- Department of Horticulture and Crop Production, University of Energy and Natural Resources, Sunyani, Ghana
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ito Fernando
- Department of Plant Pest and Diseases, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, East Java, Indonesia
| | | | - Mohd Asif Shah
- Department of Economics, Kabridahar University, Kabridahar, Somali, Ethiopia
- School of Business, Woxsen University, Hyderabad, India
- Division of Research and Development, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
- Research Fellow, INTI International University, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
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Olivadese M, Dindo ML. Edible Insects: A Historical and Cultural Perspective on Entomophagy with a Focus on Western Societies. INSECTS 2023; 14:690. [PMID: 37623400 PMCID: PMC10455489 DOI: 10.3390/insects14080690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between insects and humans throughout history has always been complex and multifaceted. Insects are both a source of fascination and fear for humans and have played important roles in human culture, economy, and health. Nowadays, there is growing interest in using insects as a sustainable and environmentally friendly source of protein and other nutrients. Entomophagy can be seen as a new opportunity for the food industry and global food security. In fact, insects require far fewer resources than traditional livestock, and there are many references to insect consumption in human history. The ancient Romans are known to have eaten various insects, including beetles, caterpillars, and locusts. Insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, and ants have been eaten for centuries and are still considered a delicacy in many parts of the world, especially in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Oceania. Entomophagy has, thus, been a part of human history for thousands of years and continues to be an important food habit for many people around the world. These topics are explored in this article from a historical and cultural perspective (e.g., ecological, nutritional, spiritual, and socio-psychological), with a focus on the progressive acceptance of edible insects in Western societies, since this novel food has also its roots in the Western world.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Luisa Dindo
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin, 42, 40127 Bologna, Italy;
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Shen DY, Ferguson-Gow H, Groner V, Munyai TC, Slotow R, Pearson RG. Potential decline in the distribution and food provisioning services of the mopane worm (Gonimbrasia belina) in southern Africa. FRONTIERS OF BIOGEOGRAPHY 2023; 15:e59408. [PMID: 37680769 PMCID: PMC7615040 DOI: 10.21425/f5fbg59408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The mopane worm (Gonimbrasia belina) is an edible insect distributed across southern Africa. As a culturally important source of food, the mopane worm provides nutrition, livelihoods and improves wellbeing for rural communities across its range. However, this is strong evidence that insect populations are declining worldwide, and climate change is likely to cause many insect species to shift in their distributions. For these reasons, we aimed to model how the ecosystem service benefits of the mopane worm are likely to change in the coming decades. We modelled the distribution of the mopane worm under two contrasting climate change scenarios (RCPs 4.5 and 8.5). Moreover, given that the mopane worm shows strong interactions with other species, particularly trees, we incorporated biotic interactions in our models using a Bayesian network. Our models project significant contraction across the species' range, with up to 70% decline in habitat by the 2080s. Botswana and Zimbabwe are predicted to be the most severely impacted countries, with almost all habitat in Botswana and Zimbabwe modelled to be lost by the 2080s. Decline of mopane worm habitat would likely have negative implications for the health of people in rural communities due to loss of an important source of protein as well as household income provided by their harvest. Biogeographic shifts therefore have potential to exacerbate food insecurity, socio-economic inequalities, and gender imbalance (women are the main harvesters), with cascading effects that most negatively impact poor rural communities dependent on natural resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Y. Shen
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Henry Ferguson-Gow
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Vivienne Groner
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Thinandavha C. Munyai
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
| | - Rob Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, South Africa
| | - Richard G. Pearson
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
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Manditsera FA, Mubaiwa J, Matsungo TM, Chopera P, Bhatasara S, Kembo G, Mahlatini H, Matiza Ruzengwe F, Matutu F, Grigor J, Fiore A, Macheka L. Mopane worm value chain in Zimbabwe: Evidence on knowledge, practices, and processes in Gwanda District. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278230. [PMID: 36469502 PMCID: PMC9721488 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Consumption of edible insects is a potential solution to the growing need for protein. However, the wild harvested edible insects' value chain faces several challenges including limited knowledge on indigenous practices in the harvesting and processing and lack of information on roles of the different actors in the chain. A case study of Gonimbrasia belina, colloquially referred to as the 'mopane worm', was conducted to understand and identify determinants of participation in the value chain of the edible caterpillar. A cross sectional study was conducted in Gwanda (a rural district in Zimbabwe) to (a) understand the indigenous knowledge on harvesting and processing methods, (b) explore value addition and the traditional beliefs surrounding the utilisation of the mopane worm. Results showed that consumers (81.7%), and harvesters (76.6%) were the main actors in the mopane worm value chain. Using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) model, the following were shown to be determinants of participation in the mopane worm value chain: (a) gender (b) household size (c) marital status (d) religion and (e) household assets. Two primary processing methods of harvested mopane worm were distinguished i.e., boiling and roasting on ambers. Results showed lack of diversity in mopane worm-based products. Current culturally acceptable processing techniques need improvement and standardization to support sustainable mopane worm processing while optimising nutrient bio-accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith A. Manditsera
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
- * E-mail:
| | - Juliet Mubaiwa
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Faith Matiza Ruzengwe
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe
| | - Felix Matutu
- Forestry Commission of Zimbabwe, Gwanda, Zimbabwe
| | - John Grigor
- Division of Engineering and Food Science, Abertay University, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto Fiore
- Division of Engineering and Food Science, Abertay University, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley Macheka
- Marondera University of Agriculture Science and Technology, Marondera, Zimbabwe
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Piña-Domínguez IA, Ruiz-May E, Hernández-Rodríguez D, Zepeda RC, Melgar-Lalanne G. Environmental effects of harvesting some Mexican wild edible insects: An overview. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.1021861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Most traditional edible insects are collected from the forest and agricultural fields, where they are considered pests. However, their importance goes beyond this. They also have an ecological role and potential to be an emerging alternative source of high-quality nutrients that can help satisfy the growing food demand for the human population. Agricultural insect pests are a healthy food source during the harvesting season in many tropical countries. In Mexico, wild insects such as chicatana (queen of flying leaf-cutter ant, Atta mexicana Smith, 1,858; Hymenoptera: Formicidae), chapulín (grasshopper, Pyrgomorphidae), chinicuil (agave red worm, Comadia redtenbacheri Hammerschmidt, 1,848: Lepidoptera, Cossidae), and meocuil (agave white worm, Aegiale hesperiaris Walker 1,856, Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae) are seasonally collected from the agricultural land and forest for food and medicine. Thus, their consumption might be regarded as support for biological plague control. However, in most countries (Mexico included), there is a lack of legislation about edible insects from harvesting to sacrifice and even their main safety aspects. So then, this research aims to provide an updated assessment of the potential use of agricultural pest insects as a sustainable alternative for food, considering current international legislative and ethical concerns about harvesting and consuming wild edible insects, focusing on some of the wild edible pest insects in Mexico.
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Matandirotya NR, Filho WL, Mahed G, Maseko B, Murandu CV. Edible Insects Consumption in Africa towards Environmental Health and Sustainable Food Systems: A Bibliometric Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14823. [PMID: 36429542 PMCID: PMC9690926 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Africa is home to an estimated wild edible insect population of 1000 species that offer an opportunity for sustainable food systems while also improving food and nutrition security on the continent. Edible insect consumption has been part of African communities for a long time and forms part of their diets and cuisines, particularly within low-income households with limited resources. The purpose of our study was to investigate and review the contribution that edible insects can make towards the realisation of sustainable food systems, and environmental/planetary health including the fulfilment of Sustainable Development Goal number 2 (zero hunger). Our study applied a bibliometric analysis approach using VOS Viewer, a data mining software. The study established that the consumption of edible insects is still widespread across many African countries and therefore can be used as an avenue for improving environmental health and enhancing food systems on the continent through a reduction in meat-based diets. This, in the long term, will also reduce the emission of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane from livestock production-related activities. Edible insects are also known to contain a high percentage nutrient content of proteins, fats and iron and, thus, can also play a vital role in reducing food insecurity and malnutrition, particularly within low-income households. Due to the existence of a high number of edible insect species on the continent, communities in Africa can easily access sources that can further be preserved using various indigenous techniques while also having minimal impact on the environment. In addition, being a source of nutritious food, edible insects can also be a source of establishing sustainable livelihoods, as well as being able to be commercialised, thus further creating employment opportunities and economic growth. Some of the notable edible insects in abundance on the continent include termites, ants, crickets and caterpillars. Our study recommends that Africa should commercialise edible insect production, in addition to preservation processing that leads to the eradication of perennial food insecurity and malnutrition and improves environmental health, as well as developing sustainable food systems. We also further recommend the establishment of food safety guidelines on edible insects as most African countries do not have such a plan in place currently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Newton R. Matandirotya
- Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa
- Centre for Climate Change Adaptation & Resilience, Kgotso Development Trust, Beitbridge P.O. Box 5, Zimbabwe
| | - Walter Leal Filho
- Research and Transfer Centre “Sustainable Development and Climate Change Management”, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Ulmenliet 20, D-21033 Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Chester Street, Manchester M1 5GD, UK
| | - Gaathier Mahed
- Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science, Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth 6000, South Africa
| | - Basil Maseko
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Midlands State University, Gweru Private Bag 9055, Zimbabwe
| | - Cleophas V. Murandu
- National Anglican Theological College of Zimbabwe, 11 Thornburg Avenue, Mount Pleasant, Harare Private Bag 2503, Zimbabwe
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Sarmah M, Bhattacharyya B, Bhagawati S, Sarmah K. Nutritional Composition of Some Commonly Available Aquatic Edible Insects of Assam, India. INSECTS 2022; 13:976. [PMID: 36354800 PMCID: PMC9695363 DOI: 10.3390/insects13110976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The nutritive value of five edible aquatic insects of Assam-Hemipterans; water bug (Diplonychus rusticus Fabricius) family belostomatidae; giant water bug (Lethocerus indicus Lepeletier and Serville) family belostomatidae; water scorpion (Laccotrephes sp.) family nepidae, water stick (Ranatra sp.) family nepidae; Coleopterans diving beetle (Cybister sp.) family dytiscidae-based on their proximate and elemental composition, antioxidant and antinutritional properties were assessed by using standard methods of analysis. Analytical studies revealed that the selected aquatic insect species have high nutritive value and are rich sources of protein (50.03 to 57.67%) and other nutrients (fat, carbohydrate and crude fiber, etc.) along with superior energy contents (331.98 to 506.38 kJ/100 g). The aquatic insect species also contained appreciable amounts of major and trace dietary elements. Phenol and flavonoid contents reflect its high antioxidant activity (80.82 to 91.47% DPPH inhibition). Tannin (18.50 to 60.76 mg tannic acid equivalent/100 g), phytic acid (11.72 to 97.30 mg/100 g) and oxalic acid (2.93 to 5.34 mg/100 g) as antinutritional compounds were registered below the toxic level (0.52% or 520 mg/100 g). The present findings indicate that the selected aquatic insect species can be considered as ideal candidates for exploration as food and feed to ensure nutritional and livelihood security of this region.
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12
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Mabelebele M, Kolobe SD, Malematja E, Sebola NA, Manyelo TG. A Comprehensive Review of the Importance of Selected Trace Elements Present in Edible Insects. Biol Trace Elem Res 2022; 201:3520-3527. [PMID: 36109446 PMCID: PMC10160138 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-022-03423-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
This review is intended to provide recent published information on trace elements from edible insects from various environments. Recently, insects are gaining popularity as food proteins in developing countries and press higher demand for edible insects since they may provide similar nutritional value as meat. Insects have been part of the human diet in the world for decades and at least 1900 insect species are considered edible. Furthermore, insects play a crucial role in socioeconomic by contributing to the world's food security as well as eradicating poverty in rural communities. Generally, edible insects are considered a readily available source of proteins, carbohydrates, and chitin. They also contain considerable amounts of trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, and manganese. It has been observed that there is a great variation between mineral contents found in insects of the same or different species. Knowledge and comprehensive understanding of trace element contents of edible insects are crucial to fully maximise their utilisation in diets and prevent mineral deficiency in human beings and animals. However, most of the research on insects has focused on the nutritional contents of insects with less attention given to other nutritional components such as minerals and trace elements. The available data on trace elements from edible insects as food is limited and makes it difficult to draw estimations for the nutrient intake of humans and animals. Therefore, this review aimed to provide comprehensive information on availability of iron, zinc, copper, and manganese from selected edible insects, functions, and deficiencies in both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mabelebele
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa.
| | - S D Kolobe
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - E Malematja
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - N A Sebola
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
| | - T G Manyelo
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, 1710, South Africa
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Macheka L, Manditsera FA, Ngadze RT, Mubaiwa J, Nyarugwe S, Bangira C, Pachavo G, Kembo G. Agro-Ecological Distribution and Consumption of Wild Harvested Edible Insects, Fruits, and Vegetables in Rural Zimbabwe. FUTURE FOODS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fufo.2022.100187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
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14
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Park SJ, Kim KY, Baik MY, Koh YH. Sericulture and the edible-insect industry can help humanity survive: insects are more than just bugs, food, or feed. Food Sci Biotechnol 2022; 31:657-668. [PMID: 35646418 PMCID: PMC9133288 DOI: 10.1007/s10068-022-01090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The most serious threat which humans face is rapid global climate change, as the Earth shifts rapidly into a regime less hospitable to humans. To address the crisis caused by severe global climate change, it will be necessary to modify humankind's way of life. Because livestock production accounts for more than 14.5% of all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, it is critical to reduce the dependence of humans on protein nutrients and calories obtained from livestock. One way to do so is to use insects as food. Compared with typical livestock, farming edible insects (or "mini-livestock") produce fewer GHG emissions, require less space and water, involve shorter life cycles, and have higher feed conversion rates. It has been recently reported that consumption of certain insects can prevent or treat human diseases. This review goes beyond entomophagy to entomotherapy and their application to the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kee-Young Kim
- National Institute of Agricultural Science, Wanju-Gun, Jeollabuk-do Republic of Korea
| | - Moo-Yeol Baik
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Institute of Life Science and Resources, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do Republic of Korea
- Department of Food Innovation and Health, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggi-do Republic of Korea
| | - Young Ho Koh
- Ilsong Institute of Life Science, Hallym University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Gerontology, Hallym University Graduate School, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do Republic of Korea
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15
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Nethavhani Z, Straeuli R, Hiscock K, Veldtman R, Morton A, Oberprieler RG, van Asch B. Mitogenomics and phylogenetics of twelve species of African Saturniidae (Lepidoptera). PeerJ 2022; 10:e13275. [PMID: 35462770 PMCID: PMC9022641 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
African Saturniidae (Lepidoptera) include numerous species consumed at the caterpillar stage throughout the continent, and their importance to local communities as a source of nutrition and seasonal income cannot be overestimated. However, baseline genetic data with utility for the characterization of their diversity, phylogeography and phylogenetic relationships have remained scarce compared to their Asian counterparts. To bridge this gap, we sequenced the mitochondrial genomes of 12 species found in southern Africa for comparative mitogenomics and phylogenetic reconstruction of the family, including the first representatives of the tribes Eochroini and Micragonini. Mitochondrial gene content and organization were conserved across all Saturniidae included in the analyses. The phylogenetic positions of the 12 species were assessed in the context of publicly available mitogenomes using Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood (ML) methods. The monophyly of the tribes Saturniini, Attacini, Bunaeini and Micragonini, the sister relationship between Saturniini and Attacini, and the placement of Eochroa trimenii and Rhodinia fugax in the tribes Eochroini and Attacini, respectively, were strongly supported. These results contribute to significantly expanding genetic data available for African Saturniidae and allow for the development of new mitochondrial markers in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zwannda Nethavhani
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Rieze Straeuli
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Kayleigh Hiscock
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Ruan Veldtman
- Department of Conservation Ecology and Entomology, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa,Kirstenbosch Research Centre, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | | | - Rolf G. Oberprieler
- Australian National Insect Collection, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, Australia
| | - Barbara van Asch
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
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Proximate, Physicochemical, Techno-Functional and Antioxidant Properties of Three Edible Insect ( Gonimbrasia belina, Hermetia illucens and Macrotermes subhylanus) Flours. Foods 2022; 11:foods11070976. [PMID: 35407063 PMCID: PMC8997929 DOI: 10.3390/foods11070976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, edible insect flours from Gonimbrasia belina (Mashonzha), Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly larvae) and Macrotermes subhylanus (Madzhulu) were prepared and assessed in terms of proximal, physicochemical, techno-functional and antioxidant properties. The crude protein of the edible insect flours varied between 34.90−52.74%. The crude fat of the insect flours differed significantly (p < 0.05), with H. illucens (27.93%) having the highest crude fat. G. belina was lighter (L*) and yellower (+b*) compared to H. illucens and M. subhylanus, and there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the redness (+a*) of the edible insect flours. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in foam capacity and foam stability of all three edible insect flours. Moreover, the antioxidant activity against the DPPH radical was low for H. illucens (3.63%), with M. subhylanus (55.37%) exhibiting the highest DPPH radical. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the techno-functional properties and antioxidant indices of the edible insect flours. PC1 accounted for 51.39% of the total variability, while component 2 accounted for 24.71%. In terms of PC1, the FS, OBC and FC were responsible for the major differences in the edible insect flours. The findings revealed that edible insect flours are a good source of antioxidants and can be used as an alternative protein source and a potential novel food additive due to their techno-functional qualities.
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Anusha Siddiqui S, Bahmid NA, Mahmud CMM, Boukid F, Lamri M, Gagaoua M. Consumer acceptability of plant-, seaweed-, and insect-based foods as alternatives to meat: a critical compilation of a decade of research. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:6630-6651. [PMID: 35144515 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2036096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing criticism of meat-based products over environment, animal welfare, and public health. Meat lovers are keeping and adapting their habits, while other consumers are increasingly shifting toward meat alternatives considered as healthier and more sustainable options to replace the animal-based products. This transition gives room in the market to plant-, seaweed-, and insect-based meat products alternatives. Nevertheless, these emerging markets are still facing the challenge of consumers' acceptance and the uncertainty in terms of preferences. This paper focuses on in-depth understanding of consumer perception and acceptability of plant-, seaweed-, and insect-based meat products to get insights on their current situation and future implementation. The main factors and motives influencing the consumer perceptions toward meat alternative products are reported. Further, the consumers' motives and drivers to consume alternative products were highlighted. This review, provides a better understanding of motives and drivers of consumers' acceptance to improve the acceptability of meat alternatives, considering product and country origin of the consumers of meat alternative foods.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2036096.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), Quakenbrück, Germany
- Technical University of Munich Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Straubing, Germany
| | - Nur Alim Bahmid
- Agricultural Product Technology Department, Sulawesi Barat University, Majene, Indonesia
| | - Chayan M M Mahmud
- CASS Food Research Center, School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fatma Boukid
- Food Safety and Functionality Programme, Institute of Agriculture and Food Research and Technology (IRTA), Monells, Spain
| | | | - Mohammed Gagaoua
- Food Quality and Sensory Science Department, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Dublin, Ireland
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Kemsawasd V, Inthachat W, Suttisansanee U, Temviriyanukul P. Road to The Red Carpet of Edible Crickets through Integration into the Human Food Chain with Biofunctions and Sustainability: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031801. [PMID: 35163720 PMCID: PMC8836810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates that more than 500 million people, especially in Asia and Africa, are suffering from malnutrition. Recently, livestock farming has increased to supply high-quality protein, with consequent impact on the global environment. Alternative food sources with high nutritive values that can substitute livestock demands are urgently required. Recently, edible crickets have been promoted by the FAO to ameliorate the food crisis. In this review, the distribution, nutritive values, health-promoting properties (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity), safety, allergenicity as well as the potential hazards and risks for human consumption are summarized. Cricket farming may help to realize the United Nations sustainable development goal No. 2 Zero Hunger. The sustainability of cricket farming is also discussed in comparison with other livestock. The findings imply that edible crickets are safe for daily intake as a healthy alternative diet due to their high protein content and health-promoting properties. Appropriate use of edible crickets in the food and nutraceutical industries represents a global business potential. However, people who are allergic to shellfish should pay attention on cricket allergy. Thus, the objective of this review was to present in-depth and up-to-date information on edible crickets to advocate and enhance public perception of cricket-based food.
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Hlongwane ZT, Slotow R, Munyai TC. The Role of Edible Insects in Rural Livelihoods, and Identified Challenges in Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa. RESOURCES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:123. [PMID: 37720255 PMCID: PMC7615094 DOI: 10.3390/resources10120123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Edible insects are an important natural commodity in rural areas that is used for household consumption and to generate income through trade. As a result, edible-insect trading is a profitable business that provides employment and improves the livelihoods of impoverished rural people. This study aimed at determining the socioeconomic benefits of and reasons for trading insects, and to assess if edible insects are included in economic development strategies in the Vhembe district of Limpopo province, South Africa. We conducted 72 questionnaire interviews targeting traders in 5 towns across the district. Five insect groups belonging to four insect orders are traded in informal markets of the district. Mopane worms (Gonimbrasia belina) were the most traded (42%) edible insects. Unemployment (45%) and the demand for edible insects (34%) were the major reasons for trading insects. Insect trading has numerous benefits; however, the provision of income (60%) and financial support (35%) were stated as the primary benefits. Despite several benefits associated with trading in insects, there are many challenges such as insect spoilage and a decline in the availability of edible insects in the wild. Edible insects play an important role in food security and the rural economy by generating employment opportunities for unemployed traders. Trading in insects is a traditional practice based on indigenous knowledge, which has persisted as an economic practice that improves rural livelihoods by reducing poverty and increases the human dignity of rural citizens. Only four governmental organisations in Limpopo included edible insects in economic development strategies. Trading insects is primarily an informal activity. The government could stimulate the activity and broaden and deepen the community benefits by providing infrastructure, access to harvest areas, financial support, and business training as part of a rural empowerment strategy to end hunger and poverty while creating employment opportunities in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thinandavha C. Munyai
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa
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20
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Zhao M, Wang CY, Sun L, He Z, Yang PL, Liao HJ, Feng Y. Edible Aquatic Insects: Diversities, Nutrition, and Safety. Foods 2021; 10:3033. [PMID: 34945584 PMCID: PMC8700862 DOI: 10.3390/foods10123033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Edible insects have great potential to be human food; among them, aquatic insects have unique characteristics and deserve special attention. Before consuming these insects, the nutrition and food safety should always be considered. In this review, we summarized the species diversity, nutrition composition, and food safety of edible aquatic insects, and also compared their distinguished characteristics with those of terrestrial insects. Generally, in contrast with the role of plant feeders that most terrestrial edible insect species play, most aquatic edible insects are carnivorous animals. Besides the differences in physiology and metabolism, there are differences in fat, fatty acid, limiting/flavor amino acid, and mineral element contents between terrestrial and aquatic insects. Furthermore, heavy metal, pesticide residue, and uric acid composition, concerning food safety, are also discussed. Combined with the nutritional characteristics of aquatic insects, it is not recommended to eat the wild resources on a large scale. For the aquatic insects with large consumption, it is better to realize the standardized cultivation before they can be safely eaten.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
| | - Cheng-Ye Wang
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
| | - Long Sun
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
| | - Zhao He
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
| | - Pan-Li Yang
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
| | - Huai-Jian Liao
- Institute of Leisure Agriculture, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Key Laboratory of Breeding and Utilization of Resource Insects of National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Research Institute of Resource Insects, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Kunming 650224, China; (M.Z.); (C.-Y.W.); (L.S.); (Z.H.); (P.-L.Y.)
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21
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Hlongwane Z, Siwela M, Slotow R, Munyai T. Effect of geographical location, insect type and cooking method on the nutritional composition of insects consumed in South Africa. JOURNAL OF INSECTS AS FOOD AND FEED 2021; 8:537-556. [PMID: 37675389 PMCID: PMC7615024 DOI: 10.3920/jiff2021.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Edible insects may be a sustainable source of protein and some other nutrients, especially for low-economic-status communities. The current study determined the influence of insect type, geographic location, and cooking method on the nutritional composition of insects. The investigation would contribute to the maximal derivation of the nutritional benefits of insects. Dried samples of four insect types, G. belina (mopani worm), Gynanisa caterpillar, termite soldiers/workers, and termite alates, were procured from different street vendors across Vhembe district in Limpopo Province, South Africa. G. belina samples were cooked by frying, boiling with and without salt addition. Generally, nutrient content varied significantly with insect type and geographic location (p<0.05). Protein content varied from 40 g/100 g in termite alates to 69.75 g/100 g in termite soldiers/workers. Termite soldiers/workers had the highest iron content (range: 545-629.5 mg/kg), whilst Gynanisa caterpillar had the highest zinc content (range: 122.14-150.33 mg/kg). Similarly, Gynanisa caterpillar had the highest levels of lysine (range: 0.80-4.53 g/100g), threonine (range: 0.79-2.64 g/100g) and isoleucine (range: 0.63-2.33). On the other hand termite soldiers/workers had the highest levels of valine (range: 2.20-3.47 g/100g), leucine (range: 2.49-3.87 g/100g) and phenylalanine (range: 1.38-3.55 g/100g). Cooking method significantly affected nutrient retention. Boiling with salt added resulted in the highest retention of protein and total mineral content (ash), and, therefore, seems a suitable method for cooking insects. The findings indicate that, if optimally selected and cooked, edible insects can contribute significantly to the alleviation of protein, zinc, and iron deficiencies in target communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z.T. Hlongwane
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209,South Africa
| | - M. Siwela
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - R. Slotow
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209,South Africa
| | - T.C. Munyai
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209,South Africa
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Kim J, Lee HE, Kim Y, Yang J, Lee SJ, Jung YH. Development of a post-processing method to reduce the unique off-flavor of Allomyrina dichotoma: Yeast fermentation. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2021.111940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Egan B, Nethavhani Z, van Asch B. Overview of the Genetic Diversity of African Macrotermes (Termitidae: Macrotermitinae) and Implications for Taxonomy, Ecology and Food Science. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12060518. [PMID: 34204854 PMCID: PMC8228397 DOI: 10.3390/insects12060518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Macrotermes are fungus-growing termites known as ecosystem engineers for their role in cellulose recycling and soil conditioning. Macrotermes termites are also important as edible insects and are widely consumed throughout Africa. Accurate identification of Macrotermes species is challenging because of few and unreliable morphological differences among taxonomic groups. Due to this limitation, the diversity of African Macrotermes is incompletely described. Genetic data has provided new insights, but vast geographic regions remain unsurveyed. We generated COI data for specimens collected in Limpopo, South Africa, where Macrotermes termites are commonly consumed by local populations, and assessed their diversity in the context of publicly available sequences. We identified 17 genetic groups that most likely represented distinct species, in contrast with the 13 Macrotermes species currently described in Africa. The specimens collected in Limpopo belonged to four genetic groups, suggesting a high diversity of Macrotermes in the region. Our results also showed that Macrotermes species names and genetic groups do not match in most cases, likely due to inaccurate identification of specimens. We propose that the genetic groups that are identified here be used as a background to guide future studies of African Macrotermes with a positive impact on food science, ecology, taxonomy, phylogeography and phylogenetics. Abstract Macrotermes termites play important ecological roles and are consumed by many communities as a delicacy and dietary complement throughout Africa. However, lack of reliable morphological characters has hampered studies of Macrotermes diversity in a wide range of scientific fields including ecology, phylogenetics and food science. In order to place our preliminary assessment of the diversity of Macrotermes in South Africa in context, we analysed a comprehensive dataset of COI sequences for African species including new and publicly available data. Phylogenetic reconstruction and estimates of genetic divergence showed a high level of incongruity between species names and genetic groups, as well as several instances of cryptic diversity. We identified three main clades and 17 genetic groups in the dataset. We propose that this structure be used as a background for future surveys of Macrotermes diversity in Africa, thus mitigating the negative impact of the present taxonomic uncertainties in the genus. The new specimens collected in Limpopo fell into four distinct genetic groups, suggesting that the region harbours remarkable Macrotermes diversity relative to other African regions surveyed in previous studies. This work shows that African Macrotermes have been understudied across the continent, and that the genus contains cryptic diversity undetectable by classic taxonomy. Furthermore, these results may inform future taxonomic revisions in Macrotermes, thus contributing to advances in termitology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Egan
- Department of Biodiversity, University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Mankweng 0727, South Africa;
| | - Zwannda Nethavhani
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa;
| | - Barbara van Asch
- Department of Genetics, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa;
- Correspondence:
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Edible Insects and Global Food Security. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12050472. [PMID: 34069495 PMCID: PMC8190632 DOI: 10.3390/insects12050472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Starting in 2008 and lasting up until 2011, the crisis in agricultural and, in particular, cereal prices triggered a period of riots that spread from the Mediterranean basin to the rest of the world, reaching from Asia to Central America and the African continent. [...].
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Selaledi L, Hassan Z, Manyelo TG, Mabelebele M. Insects' Production, Consumption, Policy, and Sustainability: What Have We Learned from the Indigenous Knowledge Systems? INSECTS 2021; 12:432. [PMID: 34064777 PMCID: PMC8150288 DOI: 10.3390/insects12050432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Edible insects can be produced sustainably, with less environmental impact than other forms of livestock. Globally, over 2000 edible insect species have been reported and are regarded as a great source of nutrition, both as food and feed. Over the years, rural people have used indigenous knowledge to either store or process such insects. However, such valuable knowledge, if not properly recorded and documented, can easily be lost. Thus, there is a need to strike a balance between the use of indigenous and scientific knowledge to produce and process these delicacies. In addition, such indigenous knowledge is vital for preserving biodiversity, since insects are good indicators of climate change as it influences their development, reproduction, and survival. Therefore, successful and sustainable solutions may lie in bringing back indigenous knowledge systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Letlhogonolo Selaledi
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, 28 Pioneer Ave, Florida Park, Roodepoort 1709, South Africa; (L.S.); (Z.H.); (T.G.M.)
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agri-cultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Zahra Hassan
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, 28 Pioneer Ave, Florida Park, Roodepoort 1709, South Africa; (L.S.); (Z.H.); (T.G.M.)
| | - Tlou Grace Manyelo
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, 28 Pioneer Ave, Florida Park, Roodepoort 1709, South Africa; (L.S.); (Z.H.); (T.G.M.)
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Animal Production, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
| | - Monnye Mabelebele
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of South Africa, Florida Campus, 28 Pioneer Ave, Florida Park, Roodepoort 1709, South Africa; (L.S.); (Z.H.); (T.G.M.)
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