Singapore makes human consumption of 'edible insects' legal. Now worms likely to be served for dinner

The State Food Agency (SFA) of Singapore gave approval to 16 types of insects - species of crickets, mealworms, grasshoppers, locusts and silkworms - which they called 'edible' for human consumption.

The SFA issued a public circular in this regard to the food traders on July 8. “With immediate effect, SFA will allow the import of insects and insect products belonging to species that have been assessed to be of low regulatory concern,” said the agency, in the press release.

“These insects and insect products can be used for human consumption or as animal feed for food-producing animals,” said SFA, and stated that insects could not be “harvested from the wild.”

Add WION as a Preferred Source

Also Read: Man suffers heart attack after winning $4 million at Singapore casino

“Documentary proof (is needed to show) that insects are farmed in premises regulated by the Competent Authority,” it added.

Singapore joins insect-eating countries

The consumption of insects is a novelty in Singapore, like much of the world.

More than2,100 edible species of insectshave been found filled with important vitamins and minerals which serve as a sustainable source of high protein, in contrast to livestock which produce methane, said the researchers.

In a 2022reportby the World Economic Forum, it stated, “Insects are an overlooked source of protein and a way to battle climate change."

“Our consumption of animal protein is the source of greenhouse gas and climate change. (Consuming) insects can offset climate change in many ways,” the researchers added.

In parts of Mexico, grasshopper tacos are a popular delicacy. While in Southeast Asian countries likeThailandand Cambodia - crickets, ants and even tarantulas are commonly consumed.

Watch:Singapore Airlines Turbulence: Should flight safety rules be changed?

In Singapore, live insects are commonly sold tofeedpets like songbirds and reptiles. However, now these insects will make their way to human dinners.

Restaurants, local chefs and beverage companies are finding ways to safely serve insects in different dishes. The salted egg crabs can be served with superworms and products like protein bars can now contain insects.

“As the insect industry is nascent and insects are a new food item here, SFA has developed an insect regulatory framework which puts in place guidelines for insects to be approved as food,” stated the SFA.

(With inputs from agencies)