A woman in Canada has caused a stir after revealing that she feeds crickets to her 18-month-old baby in order to meet the child’s nutritional needs and reduce her family’s grocery expenses. Tiffany Leigh, a food writer, made the decision to incorporate insects into her family’s diet after experiencing the practice of entomophagy, or insect consumption, in other countries.
“I’ve tasted everything from fried tarantula legs to scorpion on a stick. I’ve also enjoyed crickets and ants when travelling to countries like Thailand and Vietnam, and I loved how they were incorporated into local dishes to enhance their textural appeal,” she told Insider.
With the cost of groceries on the rise, Tiffany decided to cut down on her family’s food bill by rotating crickets with more expensive proteins like beef, chicken, and pork. She purchases Cricket Puff snacks, Cricket Protein Powder, and Whole Roasted Crickets from Entomo Farms and has been able to reduce her food bill to around $150 to $200 per week from the previous $250 to $300.
“While a conscious decision to incorporate insects into my baby’s diet, it was made after consulting with my pediatrician, and based on the numerous health benefits associated with entomophagy,” Tiffany explained.
Tiffany’s decision has received mixed reactions, with some expressing concern about the safety and ethics of feeding insects to young children. However, many families around the world are facing similar financial difficulties and are looking for ways to make ends meet.
The practice of entomophagy has gained attention in recent years as a more sustainable and efficient source of protein compared to traditional livestock. Insects are rich in nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals, and can be farmed using significantly less land, water, and feed than traditional livestock.
As the cost of food continues to rise, it is possible that more families may turn to entomophagy as a way to reduce their grocery bills while maintaining a balanced diet. However, it is important to approach the practice with caution and to consult with a medical professional before incorporating insects into a child’s diet.
