Don’t let the bugs bite, eat them

Hong Kong – Pasta prepared with mealworms raised in your own home? This unusual dinner idea could soon be a reality if Hong Kong entrepreneur Katharina Unger has her way.

The 28-year-old is the founder of Livin Farms, a start-up that has been making insect incubators since 2016. Itis now working on a compact model to cultivate mealworms for use in kitchens and in biology classrooms.

“In 2050, we’re going to be nine billion people on the planet, so we have to find new solutions to feed ourselves and the next generations,” Unger said.

“Insects offer a great alternative to current meat production because they can be grown on food waste, in very little space, with very little water and they taste great.”

Insects are common fare in countries such as Thailand and China. But Hong Kong-based nutritionist Miles Price said the production of alternative proteins, such as insects, is unregulated, which might affect food safety and consumer acceptance.