Many insects are moving from taboo to the dining table
IN NEWS:
Many insects are moving from taboo to the dining table
UPSC-STYLE ANALYSIS
1. Overview
- Traditional consumption of insects, known as entomophagy, is gaining recognition in India and globally.
- Tribal groups in India utilizing insects as food and medicinal resources:
- Chakhesang and Angami tribes of Nagaland and Manipur: Asian giant hornet.
- Tribal groups near Annamalai Hills, Tamil Nadu: Weaver ants.
- Edible insects also include honeybees and palm weevil larvae in other parts of the world.
2. Ecological and Nutritional Importance
- Insects contribute to food securitythrough:
- Pollination of crops
- Decomposition of organic matter
- Natural pest control
- Provide high-protein, nutrient-rich food sources.
- Consumption helps sustainable dietary practices and reduces pressure on traditional livestock systems.
3. Cultural and Social Context
- Fear of consuming insects (neophobia) is a common psychological barrier.
- Indigenous knowledge preserves culinary and medicinal uses of local insect species.
- Encourages community participation and cultural continuity.
4. Global Context
- Entomophagy practiced worldwide:
- Palm weevil larvae in Ecuador
- Asian giant hornets and weaver ants in Indian tribal diets
- Supports biodiversity awareness and ecological education.
5. Significance for Conservation and Sustainable Practices
- Promotes eco-friendly consumption of protein sources.
- Raises awareness of insect diversity and ecological roles.
- Can reduce dependence on resource-intensive agriculture and livestock farming.
NECESSARY STATIC PART
1. Entomophagy
- Practice of eating insects or their larvae.
- Common among tribal and indigenous communities.
- Provides nutritional, ecological, and cultural benefits.
2. Key Insects in Indian Context
- Asian giant hornet, weaver ants, honeybees, palm weevil larvae.
- Serve dietary, medicinal, and ecological roles.
3. Broader Implications
- Sustainable alternative protein source.
- Encourages environmental stewardship and biodiversity conservation.
- Integration of traditional knowledge into modern nutrition practices.