Are crickets a good substitute for baby food?

The practice of eating insects, or entomophagy, is growing.

A Canadian mother has claimed that she feeds crickets to her 18-month-old baby because they are an excellent protein source.

She says her toddler enjoys eating bugs and it has helped her cut down on her grocery expenses.

She intends to add ants, grasshoppers, and worms to her daughter’s meals as edible insects.

Experts claim bugs are nutrient-dense with high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, minerals, B vitamins, and more.

Crickets are commonly used as food because they provide a variety of nutrients, including protein.

A 2020 study found that most edible bugs have more protein than chicken, goat, and pork.

Growing food-producing insects like crickets may be more environmentally responsible and sustainable than rearing hens, pigs, and cattle.

Chitin, found in crickets, has been linked to better gut health in some studies.

Chitin might function as a prebiotic, encouraging the development of good bacteria in the stomach.

Although eating crickets has potential health benefits, some people are still hesitant due to safety concerns.

There may be some additional safety issues with consuming insects.

A study indicates that those who are allergic to dust mites or shellfish may also be allergic to eating insects.

Researchers warn that insects such as crickets could carry viruses that may infect both humans and animals.