Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


                     Insects Can Fill Gap in Diets, UN Says

   by VOA News

   A new study by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) says
   insects could be used in the fight against hunger and to increase food
   security.
   A [1]report released Monday says that forest insects form part of the
   traditional diet for some two billion people worldwide and are a
   readily available source of nutritious and protein-rich food.
   Some of the most widely consumed insects include beetles, caterpillars,
   bees, wasps and ants. The food agency report says insects are rich in
   protein, good fats, iron and other minerals.
   The report cites the "disgust factor" as being a large reason as to why
   eating insects is rare in Western countries, an effect that trickles
   down to much of the world. It also  suggests chefs can help raise the
   status of insects by incorporating them into recipes and menus.
   Insects produce a fraction of emissions such as methane, ammonia and
   greenhouse gases compared to other animals, according to the FAO.  It
   adds that on average, insects use just two kilograms of feed to produce
   one kilogram of meat, compared to cattle which require eight kilograms
   of feed to produce the same amount.
   The food agency also pointed out that in addition to food, insect
   gathering and farming can also offer employment and income generation
   for people and businesses.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [2]http://www.voanews.com/content/insect-can-fill-gap-in-diets-says-un/
   1660218.html

References

   1. http://www.fao.org/forestry/edibleinsects/en/
   2. http://www.voanews.com/content/insect-can-fill-gap-in-diets-says-un/1660218.html