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Study finds insect shows promise as a good, sustainable food source:
With global food demands rising at an alarming rate, a study led by IUPUI [( Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis)] scientists has found new evidence that a previously overlooked insect shows promise as alternative protein source: the yellow mealworm.
The research is based upon a new analysis of the genome of the mealworm species Tenebrio molitor led by Christine Picard, associate professor of biology and director in Forensic and Investigative Sciences program at the School of Science at IUPUI.
[...] "Human populations are continuing to increase and the stress on protein production is increasing at an unsustainable rate, not even considering climate change," said Picard, whose lab focuses on the use of insects to address global food demand.
The research, conducted in partnership with Beta Hatch Inc., has found the yellow mealworm—historically a pest—can provide benefit in a wide range of agriculture applications. Not only can it can be used as an alternative source of protein for animals including fish, but its waste is also ideal as organic fertilizer.
[...] "Mealworms, being insects, are a part of the natural diet of many organisms," said Picard. "Fish enjoy mealworms, for example. They could also be really useful in the pet food industry as an alternative protein source. Chickens like insects—and maybe one day humans will, too, because it's an alternative source of protein."
Journal Reference:
T. Eriksson, et al. The yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) genome: a resource for the emerging insects as food and feed industry [open], Journal of Insects as Food and Feed (DOI: 10.3920/jiff2019.0057)
(Score: 4, Interesting) by Azuma Hazuki on Wednesday September 02 2020, @02:22AM (1 child)
There's an easy solution if you don't want to eat bugs: more plants.
Every successful culture on Earth has figured out that the combination of a grain and a legume or pulse provides a complete protein, with all the essential amino acids. One of the absolute most mind-blowing tricks my new Instant Pot is capable of is cooking a huge batch of brown rice and black beans in a little over an hour total. Use a 1:1 ratio of each, with twice as many cups water as solid material, and throw in what spices you wish; 45 minutes on high + 15 for natural pressure release (followed by tripping the release valve) later and you have some of the most delicious vegan food you've ever eaten. I tend to do 1.5 cups each, 4 cups water, and one 22oz can of crushed tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
There is a tremendous amount of good, healthy, nutritious food out there if you're careful and savvy. Make bone broth, make rice'n'beans, make breakfast porridges from whatever whole or cracked grains you can, eat lots and enjoy!
I am "that girl" your mother warned you about...
(Score: 2, Interesting) by Anonymous Coward on Wednesday September 02 2020, @06:45AM
I'll offer a vote for eating farro, otherwise known as the grain emmer.
All my otherwise junk food loving kids love this healthy grain. If you like brown rice, give this a try instead. Cooks just like brown rice.