Are Ants Dangerous to Eat?
WouterSeveral species of ants are a source of protein, fat, and vitamins. Some species are omnivorous, feeding on plants and animals alike. Others are scavengers, hunting and scavenging dead insects. Some even work together to dismember larger insects.
Some species of ants can be dangerous to eat. For instance, the venomous Solenopsis Invicta, also known as the red imported fire ant, can cause serious problems. However, there are plenty of species of ants that are harmless.
In fact, some entomophagy experts believe that ants are a good source of essential nutrients. They are also packed with antioxidants, which reduce inflammation. Ants can also serve as disease vectors, transferring toxigenic microorganisms from one host to another.
Some ant species even hunt individual insects. Some species of ants can be used in livestock diets. Whether you are eating ants, spiders, or dragonflies, it’s important to follow proper food handling techniques. It’s also important to clean up after you eat to prevent foodborne illnesses.
A number of different ant species can be eaten, but there are only two that are considered safe to eat: red ants and brown harvester ants. The red ant may be the most dangerous of all, as it is known to be capable of delivering a painful sting.
Another ant species, the brown harvester ant, is actually known to be an omnivore, and is capable of feeding on several types of insects. Despite its name, it’s not a bad source of protein.
