When you think of Switzerland, you probably imagine cheese fondue and irresistibly rich-flavored chocolates. Surprising as it is, Switzerland has recently turned into the first European country selling insect burgers for human consumption.
Beetle burger, anyone?
At first glance, it is a yummy burger, comprising of fluffy white bread and meatballs spiced with oregano and chili. But the meatballs are somewhat different, tasting just like…a bug?
Eating a protein-rich mealworm sandwich is now possible in Switzerland`s second-largest supermarket chain Coop. If you are ready for an extraordinary food adventure, just have a bite. You might fall in love with the mild taste that gets a nutty touch when roasted, as the insect-eating experts advise.
“These products are perfectly suited for those who want to learn about the culinary diversity of insects.”, commented Coop procurement manager Silvio Baselgia as quoted by Bloomberg.
Mealworms are not the only ones on the menu, though. Switzerland may soon offer you a chance to try a burger with crickets or even grasshoppers. Swiss food safety laws were changed in May 2017 to allow the sale of foods containing these insects.
Nevertheless, the bugs must be bred under supervision for four generations before they can be sold in stores, according to the Swiss law.
Bug eating: a cherished tradition
If you are still skeptical about eating a meatball made of disgustingly looking insects, you might be surprised to learn that it is a normal meal around the world.
Some traditional Latin American dishes include fire-roasted tarantulas and ants. Mexicans also like to prepare tortillas sprinkled with the popular agave worm. The insect is also put in bottles of mezcal liquor. While in Bali, you should try the local delicacy – de-winged dragonflies boiled in coconut milk with ginger and garlic.
Are you ready to trade your beef steak for a grasshopper? Your inner adventurer is challenging you. Go to Switzerland and eat your first bug burger!
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