From ants and beetle larvae eaten in Africa to crispy-fried locusts enjoyed in Thailand, bugs or insects are an integral part of traditional meals in many countries.
Eating insects might seem yucky but there are over 2,000 species of insects that are dined on worldwide. Actually, some two billion people eat a wide variety of insects though it remains a “yuck” factor among the masses.
Now, a Japanese budget airline Zipair has introduced insect-based food for their in-flight meals
The airline, a subsidiary of national carrier Japan Airlines is serving a chili burger and a pasta dish, both of which include crushed cricket and cost 1,500 yen (US$11.30). The ground-up crickets are widely regarded as a rich source of protein and other nutrients.
Zipair has collaborated with food technology company Gryllus to serve up unusual meals. It took chefs about three months to perfect the recipe for these two dishes.
Insects are a delicacy in Japan and other parts of Asia
Crickets-based snacks have traditionally been served as nibbles in rural Japan. According to Gryllus, crickets require less food than livestock and mature far more quickly.
High in protein and rich in vitamins and minerals, Gryllus sees them as a useful resource and wants to transform them into a food source.
