Interdisciplinary Uses of Some Edible Species

Fasogbon, Beatrice Mofoluwaso

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-32952-5_6

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 70 publications

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“…Among the >2,100 edible insect species that have been identified in the world (Jongema, 2017), over 400 species are found in Africa (Fasogbon, 2020). Five abundant insect orders are leading in the consumption, and they include, Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera, and Isoptera (Kelemu et al, 2015) (Figure 1).…”

Section: Diversity Of Edible Insects In Africamentioning

confidence: 99%

African traditional use of edible insects and challenges towards the future trends of food and feed

Kipkoech

Jaster-Keller

Gottschalk

et al. 2023

JIFF

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In the current times of climate change, the intense use of insects as a protein source is gaining popularity worldwide, and will likely contribute to increased nutrient intake in food and feed due to its nutritional, ecological, nutraceutical, and medicinal potential. Ancient traditional consumption of wild-harvested insects in Africa is a valuable but diminishing resource. There is a need for improved technology in insect rearing to match production with the current population pressure since we can no longer depend on wild collection. The current legislation within the European Union opens a pathway towards acceptance, increased consumption, and marketing of edible insects, which already had a big role in African nutrition as a portion of seasonal food. Food security and expensive animal protein sources are a setback in Africa and there is a need to search for alternative sources to curb malnutrition. Insect use in animal feed is gaining momentum in pig, fish, pet, and poultry feed. To meet the rising demand for insect protein in animal feed, it calls for new ways to increase availability while addressing food quality, safety, and environmental sustainability. Apart from their importance as a source of nutrients, insects help to recycle organic waste, and the remaining portion can be used in plant protection and as a soil modifier. This review, therefore, undertakes exploration and outlook on the ancient utilisation of edible insects in Africa, current efforts to improve through farming, and the challenges faced with the hope that traditional practices will shape the future of the edible insect industry.

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Section: Diversity Of Edible Insects In Africamentioning

confidence: 99%

African traditional use of edible insects and challenges towards the future trends of food and feed

Kipkoech

Jaster-Keller

Gottschalk

et al. 2023

JIFF

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Cultural significance of locusts, grasshoppers, and crickets in sub-Saharan Africa

Huis

2022

J Ethnobiology Ethnomedicine

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Background In sub-Saharan Africa, there is a wealth of information about insects which is often only orally available. The purpose of the study was to remedy this shortcoming and make an overview of how orthopteran species are utilised, perceived and experienced in daily life across sub-Saharan Africa. Method Ethno-entomological information on Orthoptera in sub-Saharan Africa was collected by (1) interviews with more than 300 people from about 120 ethnic groups in 27 countries in the region; (2) library studies in Africa, London, Paris and Leiden; and (3) using web search engines. Results More than 126 species of crickets, grasshoppers, and locusts have been identified as edible in sub-Saharan Africa. Some toxic species, such as Zonocerus spp., are eaten by some groups who use processing and detoxifying techniques. The katydid Ruspolia differens is very popular as food in central and eastern Africa and is captured by indigenous and commercial methods. Vernacular names refer to their morphology, behaviour, characteristics or the beliefs associated with the insect. The aposematic pyrgomorphid species, such as Zonocerus spp., are often used as medicine. Children play with grasshoppers, by for instance herding them like cattle, and they consider cricket-hunting for food as a game. The doctrine of signatures probably plays a role, as crickets, because of their chirping, are used to improve the sound of a music instrument, or as medicine to treat earache. Locust plagues are considered a punishment which requires repentance, but also an opportunity to acquire food. Proverbs and stories relate to using the orthopterans as food or to the underground lives of the crickets. Possible explanations are given as to why so many practices, beliefs and stories about orthopterans are so widespread in sub-Saharan Africa. The relevance of recording such ethno-entomological practices is discussed. Conclusion Grasshoppers, locusts and crickets, although they may be agricultural pests, are very popular as food. They are also used in medicine, and as toys, and they play a role in religion, art and literature.

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Interdisciplinary Uses of Some Edible Species

Cited by 2 publications

References 70 publications

African traditional use of edible insects and challenges towards the future trends of food and feed

African traditional use of edible insects and challenges towards the future trends of food and feed

Cultural significance of locusts, grasshoppers, and crickets in sub-Saharan Africa

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