What Are Edible Insects?

Edible insects are simply insects that people safely eat as food and have enjoyed for generations. Sounds simple enough? Well did you know that there are almost 2000 different types of edible insects around the world? Across Africa, Asia and Latin America, edible insects have been enjoyed for generations. In fact, thousands of insect species are eaten worldwide, and here in South Africa alone, our people enjoy more than 72 different types of edible insects.

For many families, these foods are not strange or unusual. They are seasonal favourites, treasured childhood memories and traditions passed down from one generation to the next.

Meet Africa's Edible Insect Heroes

Africa is home to an incredible variety of edible insects. Some colourful, some un-usual looking; but they all have something in common, they are delicious. Here a list of our favourite edible insect and a little info about where they are traditionally enjoyed on the continent:

1.Mopane Caterpillar (Gonimbrasia belina)

Where: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Mozambique.

Known as Masonja, Amacimbi, Diboko tša Mohlanare or Madora, Mopane Caterpillars are among Southern Africa's most famous edible insects. They are harvested seasonally and enjoyed dried, fried or cooked in stews.

2. African Thief Ant (Carebara vidua)

Where: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia and parts of East Africa.

African Thief Ants, as known as Dinhwla, Ishwa and their brood

have long been enjoyed by these communities and are another

reminder of Africa's remarkable edible insect diversity.

3. Giant Jewel Beetle (Sternocera orissa)

Where: South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Known as Lebitsi in parts of Southern Africa, this beautiful metallic-green beetle is admired for its striking appearance and has inspired stories, games and childhood memories for generations.

4. Tobacco Cricket (Brachytrupes membranaceus)

Where: Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi.

These crickets are collected seasonally and sometimes even farmed.

They taste the best when roasted over woodfire!

5. Stinkbug (Encosternum delegorguei)

Where: South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Known as Podile and thongolifa in parts of Limpopo.

They have an unusual scent-sational scent but taste delicious once cleaned.

Have You Tried Edible Insects Before?

For many people, edible insects bring back memories of childhood, family gatherings and special seasonal treats. For others, discovering edible insects is a completely new adventure.

At Mopani Queens, we are reintroducing these remarkable traditional foods through innovative products that celebrate our heritage. One of our customers shared:

"I was honestly nervous to try them at first, but the Mopani Bites were absolutely delicious. Crunchy, savoury and surprisingly delicious. They reminded me of flavours I grew up with."

Whether you are rediscovering a childhood favourite or tasting edible insects for the very first time, there is always something new to explore.

Let's Get Buggy!

👉Shop our Mopani Bites™, Mopilaz™ Tortillas, Mopani Spice Range™ and other Taste Adventures here.

Hey CaterKidz, Taste Adventurers and curious grown-ups!

Ready to meet even more of Africa's edible insect heroes?

👉

Download the Africa's Edible Insect Heroes Poster here.