Diversity and nutritional status of edible insects in Nigeria: A review

Abstract

Information on insects as food in Nigeria was collected by reviewing the literature of what scientists have done locally in the country. A list of 22 edible insect species from six orders were compiled. Of these, 77.3% were Lepidoptera (27.3%), Coleoptera (27.3%), Orthoptera (22.7%) and 22.7% Isoptera, Hemiptera and Hymenoptera. These insects are rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Some anti-nutritional factors are detected from some insects but the contents are below toxic level to man. Edible insects have a wide range of host plants from forest trees to agricultural crops and their consumption stages are available at different periods of the year. They are collected by hand picking, digging of soil and luring into water traps at night. Processing of collected insects could be carried out by boiling, sun drying, frying and roasting methods. To manage insects in the interest of food security, more attention should be given to environmentally sustainable collecting methods. These insects could be made better available throughout the year by developing improved conservation methods or by raising them as a minilivestock. Considering the economic, nutritional and ecological advantages of this traditional food source, its promotion deserves more attention both from national governments and assistance programmes. Key words: Diversity, Nigeria, edible insects, collection, insects as food, conservation.