Section
Biological Sciences
Abstract
This review explored the pathogenic microbes associated with common edible insects. With rising human populations and fluctuating food supplies, edible insects offer a rich source of protein, vitamins, and minerals and are culturally accepted in many regions. Despite their nutritional benefits, knowledge on microbial hazards associated with edible insects is fragmented. The review focuses on commonly consumed species, including Tenebrio molitor, Zophobas morio, Acheta domesticus, Gryllus bimaculatus, Locusta migratoria, Ruspolia differens, Bombix mori, Bunaea alcinoe, and Oryctes monoceros. A total of 43 pathogenic bacteria and 20 pathogenic fungi linked to these edible insect species were identified. The most frequently reported pathogenic bacteria are: Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Whereas, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus fumigatus and Chaetomium zeylanoides were the most common pathogenic fungal species reported. Factors such as rearing conditions, feed quality, and handling practices significantly influence microbial risks. Research from Africa primarily addresses the safety of wild-harvested edible insects, while studies from Western countries mainly focus on farmed varieties. Additionally, the findings indicate that post-harvest processing methods such as drying, boiling, cooking, steaming, toasting, roasting, smoking, deep frying, blanching, and acidification greatly enhance the safety of edible insects. This review underscores the need for stringent safety measures and discusses the current state of entomophagy and the necessity for regulatory frameworks in Africa. It also highlights the existing knowledge gaps regarding microbial hazards. Finally, the study proposes strategies for the safe commercialization of edible insects, including improved food safety protocols and enhanced consumer education.
Recommended Citation
Philbert, Anitha
(2025)
"Food safety concerns: A review on pathogenic microbes associated with common edible insects,"
Tanzania Journal of Science: Vol. 51:
Iss.
4, Article 10.
Available at:https://doi.org/10.65085/2507-7961.1112