It’s that time of year again: the cicadas are making their return. But this isn’t just your usual seasonal appearance. Thanks to a rare alignment in their life cycles, trillions of these buzzing insects are expected to emerge in parts of the U.S. by the end of June, with a special focus on the Midwest. As this buzzing frenzy takes over, you might find yourself wondering: Could these insects be more than just a noisy nuisance? Could they actually help curb your grocery bills?
Before you start imagining a future where cicadas replace your usual snacks, it’s important to weigh the potential benefits and risks of eating these critters. Here’s a closer look at what you need to know before making cicadas part of your plate.
First off, don’t worry too much cicadas are generally harmless to humans. In fact, across the globe, many cultures welcome their arrival. For millions of people in countries like those in South and Central America, Asia, and Africa, insects are a regular part of the diet, and cicadas are a popular choice. They’re often praised as an affordable and nutritious food source. While it may sound strange to some, eating cicadas is not an unusual practice in many parts of the world.
It might surprise you, but even in the U.S., cicadas have been eaten. Take, for instance, a viral moment during a baseball game in May 2024 when fans delighted in tasting these insects as a novelty snack. With their high protein and low-fat content, cicadas are seen by some as a sustainable, environmentally friendly food option. The question remains, though are they safe and tasty enough to add to your own menu?
For some, the idea of eating cicadas is thrilling. They are rich in protein, containing several essential amino acids and low in fat making them an appealing option for those looking to diversify their protein intake. Add to that their availability, often for free when they emerge in massive swarms, and it’s easy to see why some might consider them a cost-effective food source. For those brave enough to try, cicadas have been described as having flavors ranging from nutty and citrusy to smoky, with a crunchy texture that some find satisfying.
However, there are some notable reasons to steer clear of cicadas. The “ick” factor is one many simply cannot get past the thought of eating insects, no matter how much protein they contain. It’s also worth considering that not everyone enjoys the taste or texture of cicadas. Additionally, there are some health risks to take into account. For example, some individuals may experience stomach issues like nausea, diarrhea, or other digestive discomforts after consuming cicadas.
While cicadas may seem like an interesting alternative, they’re not for everyone. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid consuming them due to concerns about toxins or pesticides that could be present. But perhaps the most important group to be cautious around cicadas are those with shellfish allergies. Cicadas, like other insects, share a common protein (tropomyosin) found in shellfish, which could trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. In fact, if you’re allergic to shellfish, eating cicadas could cause a potentially serious reaction, despite the fact that handling or merely being near them doesn’t trigger any issues.
It’s not just humans who are curious about these insects pets like dogs and cats may take a liking to cicadas as well. If your dog or cat enjoys chasing and eating cicadas, it’s important to be mindful of how many they consume. While a few cicadas here and there might not pose a problem, overindulgence could lead to digestive upset, so it’s best to keep an eye on your furry friend and steer them away if they’ve had their fill.
While eating cicadas may sound exotic or even adventurous, it’s not for everyone. They offer an affordable, protein-packed food option for those willing to embrace them, but they come with certain health risks especially for people with shellfish allergies or other sensitivities. If you’re ready to try them, there are plenty of recipes out there to help you experiment with these insects in the kitchen, but if you’re hesitant, there’s no harm in sitting this one out. Just be sure to keep your pets in check and avoid any unwanted snacking!
In the end, whether or not cicadas become a part of your diet this summer depends on your taste, tolerance, and adventurous spirit. As with any new food trend, it’s always wise to know what you’re getting into before taking the plunge.
