Do Spiders Taste Good?
WouterSome people wonder whether spiders taste good. There are 15 species of spiders classified as edible. However, some people are wary of eating spiders because of the risks.
Some spiders are venomous and some can bite. But in general, most venom is harmless. A large proportion of spider venom is neutralized by the heat of cooking. This means that the only negative effects of eating a spider are if it bites you.
Many cultures around the world consider eating insects and bugs a way of life. In Cambodia, for example, fried spiders are considered a delicacy. They are marinated in spices, then deep fried and served with rice or noodles.
Tarantulas are eaten as a delicacy in Cambodia, too. Although they are highly poisonous, their meat is quite tasty. The venom has no lasting effects and they are often described as tasting like shrimp or crab meat.
Eating spiders is popular in Cambodia, where tarantulas are sold at markets and in restaurants. A variety of other insect-based meals are also available.
When people eat tarantulas, they roll them in garlic or sugar. They can also be cooked in a heavy pan over a fire. If they are prepared with sugar, they caramelize and have a salty, sweet taste.
Fried spiders are available at Bugs Cafe, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The cafe is open to tourists and locals.
Spiders are a common food for animals, but they do not usually eat humans. Most spiders are carnivores and eat insects. Other types of spiders eat dead arthropods or seeds.
