Locusts for Lunch

Insects are now officially on the menu in Switzerland, thanks to a new law that allows the sale of food products containing mealworms, locusts and crickets.

An estimated two billion people around the world include insects in their diet, but they rarely feature on shopping lists. However, this ecologically sound development is gaining acceptance – other regions such as Britain, France, the Netherlands and Belgium are also allowing the sale of edible insects.

Insects contain as much protein as meat and fish and are rich in essential nutrients. They use less water, and emit less greenhouse gas, than cattle.

Swiss supermarket chain Coop plans to sell mealworm burgers and meatballs in 100 branches. “We’re convinced there’s a real demand for this culinary specialty,” says spokeswoman Angela Wimmer.