Learn How You Can Overcome the Barriers of Eating Insects for Survival
Just the thought of eating insects gives most people the creepy-crawlies, but they may be the only viable option available during a survival situation. Getting past barriers that keep you from taking advantage of the numerous benefits that insects provide can open up all kinds of possibilities in terms of increasing dietary options when resources are scarce. Let’s look at a few things that often hinder us from taking advantage of the abundant and nutrient-rich food source.
Insects are not Dirty
Most of us have the impression that insects are filthy creatures that spread disease. While this is true of some of them, particularly cockroaches, most insects are actually quite clean and disease-free. Even cockroaches, if they are not in urban areas or sewerage, are safe to eat if cooked properly. The reality is that insects provide a vital role in our ecology, and they are also loaded with nutrients, particularly protein and carbohydrates. These benefits come without the fat, sugar and cholesterol that are found in many other food sources. Consequently, while they may look gross, edible insects are quite harmless.
Insects are not Evil
We have the idea stuck in our heads that insects are to be feared and exterminated. This can not be farther from the truth. Insects are so important that our world would not survive without them. That being said, it is still a monumental challenge to look at a scary, intimidating and vicious bug and decide to have one for lunch. It’s hard enough to look at a live animal, kill and cook it, so it’s understandable why we have such an aversion to insects.
Our natural response to insect problems is to kill them. Spray toxic chemicals and stop them in their tracks. While this is perfectly acceptable for dealing with invasive pests, it is worth mentioning that insects are not out to kill us or ruin our lives. Getting over this powerful perception is often the most important step towards considering eating them during a survival situation.
Insects do not Taste Bad
Stemming from the idea that insects are dirty and vicious, it is easy to see how we consider them to be downright gross. The reality is that many insects are actually quite tasty and come in a variety of flavors and textures. Grubs tend to be gooey and spongy whereas crickets are nice and crunchy. This may be revolting to read, but it is true. Ask anyone who has dared to sample insects in exotic parts of the world, and chances are they will admit that they are not as disgusting as people are conditioned to think.
The trick is to find a way to overcome the inherent desire to avoid them at all costs. They look unfamiliar, scary and completely unappetizing. However, once you bite the bullet and try some popular varieties, chances are that you can stomach eating them as needed.
Do some research and see what insects are popular food items in different parts of the world. Read stories from others about their experiences with dining on them for the first time. Chances are that the majority will concede that they are not as bad as originally thought. One thing is for certain. When every thing else fails, you can always rely on insects as a staple food no matter where you may be located. The trick is to find ways to overcome barriers to trying, and once you do, it will get a lot easier to stomach a insect snack or meal on demand.
