Can You Eat Green Ants?
WouterCurrently, there is no published research on the nutritional profile of Australian green ants. However, their mineral composition is similar to that of other edible insect species. They also have variable antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, further research is needed to assess allergens and toxins.
Green ants are classified into four main body regions: abdomen, upper body, anterior part, and gaster. The abdomen of green ants contains high levels of folate. They have a bright lemony taste. The gaster, however, does not yield anti-microbial activity.
Green ants are traditionally eaten live. However, they can also be harvested and eaten as larvae. A few food companies have started to commercialise green ants. These ants are also used in the distilling process. This is a new, exciting delicacy that is gaining momentum in culinary circles.
The Australian researchers conducted the study at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, which provided laboratory facilities. The study was funded by the Australian Research Council. The researchers acknowledge Vivian Sandoval for entomological identification of green ants. The Larrakia People are acknowledged as the traditional owners of the green ants.
The researchers used two solvents to extract the ants. Methanol extracts yielded higher antioxidant activity than those prepared with water. Carboxy acid amides, aldehydes, and alcohols were found to be present in all body regions. However, the aldehydes and alcohols were in lower ratios than carboxy acid amides.
Antimicrobial activity was determined by using a well diffusion assay. Methanol extracts of the green ants from different body regions did not yield anti-microbial activity against Escherichia coli. Penicillin streptomycin (1 ug) was added as a control.
