July 10 (V7N) – Singapore has recently approved the consumption of 16 species of insects, including grasshoppers, locusts, various types of crickets, and silkworms. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) announced this decision after extensive research confirmed the insects are safe for human consumption, as reported by The Guardian.

The SFA highlighted that incorporating these insects into diets could significantly help meet protein needs. Consequently, the production of these approved insects within the country and their import from other nations will now be permitted. However, it is prohibited to cook and serve insects sourced from the wild. Only insects produced under stringent quality control measures are deemed suitable for consumption. Imported insects must also adhere to Singapore’s standards.

Restaurant owners and a segment of residents have welcomed this announcement. Many visitors from China, Japan, and other countries favor these insects, which are now officially on the menu. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization has long advocated for the consumption of insects to address protein needs, particularly in developing nations.

Food suppliers in Singapore are already planning to import insects from regulated farms in China, Thailand, and Vietnam to meet the anticipated demand.