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Don’t be bugged: insects are good for you!

Could insects be the next food craze in America? Advocates say insects are high in protein and nutritious. Current State talks with Dr. Jeff Swada, an assistant professor of food science at Michigan State University.

Have you ever eaten a bug on purpose? In much of the world, edible insects are valued as a source of protein. They haven’t quite caught on in the United States, aside from the creations of a few daring gourmet chefs.

A conference underway this week in Detroit is considered the first of its kind ever held in the U.S. It’s called Edible Insects Detroit 2016.

Michigan State University is also thinking about the nutritional value of insects.

Current State talks with Dr. Jeffrey Swada.  He’s an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Michigan State University.

Kevin Lavery served as a general assignment reporter and occasional local host for Morning Edition and All Things Considered before retiring in 2023.
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