NPR

At Bug-Eating Festival, Kids Crunch Down On The Food Of The Future

The United Nations estimates that by 2050, the planet's 9 billion people will need to rely on bugs as a critical source of protein. Chefs and scientists are trying to get children on board early.
Tennesee Nydegger-Sandidge (left) and Holly Hook try chowing down on some crickets. "People should eat them because they're good for the planet," says Tennessee.

Elementary school student Holly Hook takes a deep breath, crinkles her nose and pops a cricket into her mouth. Chewing thoughtfully, she looks up and smiles: "It's good!"

Although the thought of eating insects might make many parents in the United States cringe, people living in the 80 percent of the world's countries that consume bugs probably wouldn't bat an eyelash over Holly's crunchy snack. Neither would a small, but growing, team of renowned chefs and scientists from across North America who are trying to persuade kids to eat insects at the Brooklyn Bugs festival.

By 2050, there will be more than 9 billion people on the planet. The United Nations estimates that to feed everyone, sustainable food production will have to increase by , and bugs

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR4 min read
Here's How To Set Your Reading Goals And Read More Books In 2024
Experts say it's better to set a goal you can stick to and make reading more of a community affair.
NPR4 min read
Tyla Is The New Face Of African Pop. She's Aiming To Take Over The Whole World
The South African singer brought a homegrown genre, amapiano, to new ears with a viral hit and a Grammy. With her debut album, she wants to prove the world is ready for a full-blown African pop star.
NPR12 min read
Chevron Owns This City's News Site. Many Stories Aren't Told
Chevron operates a major refinery in Richmond, Calif. It also owns the city's dominant news site, putting its own spin on events, and runs similar sites in Texas and Ecuador.

Related Books & Audiobooks