Do Ants Taste Like Bacon?
WouterWhether ants taste like bacon is a question that can’t be answered easily. Ants vary in taste depending on their species, diet and preparation. Some ants are described as having a nutty, bacon-like flavor while others are spicy and citrusy.
The most common species eaten by people around the world are black ants, mealworms, sago grubs and leaf cutter ants. These are all common insects and are high in protein. They also contain high amounts of fat, which is beneficial for curing chronic diseases.
Leaf cutter ants are usually found in South America and are eaten as a culinary specialty. They are a nutrient-rich insect and can be eaten as a fried snack or added to salads. The ants are usually sold pre-toasted. They have a spicy flavor, similar to pork rinds.
Another species, the honey ants, have an unobtrusive flavor that swells up with food. They act as living pantries and regurgitate nectar to feed the colony. The queen ants are larger in size with a complex thorax. The workers are called repletes.
Another type of ant eaten in Colombia is the Atta laevigata ant. These ants are considered aphrodisiacs and are eaten as food insects.
Some ants are poisonous. If you have allergies, it’s best to avoid them. Ants with a strong odor may be poisonous. It’s also best to avoid ants with venom. You can cook them and break down the venom, but if you eat them raw, it may be fatal.
