Are Cockroaches Good For You?
WouterAlthough cockroaches are unappealing to most people, they are incredibly nutritious. They are a great source of protein and vitamin B12, and some species even produce milk. The best way to consume cockroaches is to cook them thoroughly, so that the bacteria they produce are killed. You can cook them in a variety of ways, including boiling, roasting, and deep-frying. They have a similar taste to chicken.
Cockroaches are not the best insects to have around your home, however. They are notorious for being filthy and often carry bacteria. In addition to salmonella, cockroaches can carry a number of dangerous pathogens, including E. coli and staphylococcus. Those with sensitive skin are especially at risk.
Some species are even beneficial to humans, and they help the environment by providing food for other animals. Without them, many birds and small mammals cannot survive. Cockroaches are also a vital part of the eco-system. Their waste is used to feed other animals and plants, and this is an excellent source of oxygen.
Cockroaches also have athletic ability. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have studied cockroaches’ gait to help build better robots. In their lab, they have slowed the movement of cockroaches and have even used their spiny legs for search-and-rescue robots.
