Air Date: Thursday, July 24, 2008
Edible insects
Looking for a healthy eating alternative? What if you could get a high protein, low fat snack that packs a crunch but also has legs and wings? 7's Ryan Schulteis sets the table for a meal of edible insects.
Cicadas, grasshoppers, crickets! Would you eat one of these? David Gracer would, and he does.
David Gracer, entomophagist
"Millions and millions of people enjoy insects."
This Rhode Island bug expert doesn't just study bugs, he swallows them.
David Gracer, entomophagist
"You want hot plate, hot oil, and then..."
Gracer says these little pests are packed with nutrition, a great source of protein, iron, and calcium.
David Gracer, entomophagist
"I really want to get to a place where people are really impressed and blown away by how good insects are."
David Gracer, entomophagist
"If you want any at all, come make a line."
Some kids in Braintree were brave enough to give it a try.
Teenager at bug tasting seminar
"I'd say it's pretty good."
Little girl at bug tasting seminar
"Ewww."
David Gracer, entomophagist
"I am slowly making insects tastier and tastier."
Ryan Schulteis, 7News
"Most Americans may not be enthusiastic about eating insects, but they're a big part of the common diet all across the world. The most commonly eaten bugs are caterpillars, grasshoppers, and even crickets."
Faith Deering, entomophagist
"You can eat something so small and get a real boost."
Faith Deering of Northampton is another faithful insect eater. One of her favorite recipes is made with crickets and mealworms.
Faith Deering, entomophagist
"Chirpy chex supreme."
But she says be sure to clean them first or you could have a problem!
Faith Deering, entomophagist
"Their legs and little spiny parts can get caught in people's teeth, and they really don't like that."
But before you decide to chomp on a cricket there are a few warnings: don't eat bugs that sting and if you're allergic to shellfish you'll also be allergic to insects, that's because they're in the same animal family.
If you're interested in trying these kinds of bug bites, you can buy insects at your local pet store, at many ethnic food stores, or you can catch them in the backyard for free! Bon appetite, or should I say "bug" appetite.
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