Can You Eat Black Ants?
WouterWhether you’re looking to supplement your diet or simply want to add something crunchy and spicy to your meal, you may wonder if you can eat black ants. Ants are not only a delicious way to add a little something to your meals, but they’re also packed with nutritional value.
Ants are a source of protein and many people consider them a delicacy. They’re also a good source of unsaturated fatty acids, which can help to reduce cholesterol. Ants are also loaded with antioxidants, which may help to prevent oxidative stress-related diseases.
Depending on the species of ants you’re eating, you can choose to eat them raw, cooked, or roasted. Eating them raw will provide you with a fresh flavor. However, cooking them can kill any parasites or bacteria that may be present, as well as provide a different taste.
Black ants are also a good source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants comparable to orange juice. They’re also safe to eat, and can be mixed in juice or smoothies. You can also eat black ants as an aperitif or as a garnish for your favorite dishes.
You should be careful about ants that have venom. If you swallow live ants, you can have problems with your esophagus, digestive system, or respiratory system. If you have allergies to certain insects, you should avoid eating them.
In countries where entomophagy is the norm, insects are considered to be an excellent source of protein. However, there are few human studies on the subject.
