Can you eat bug lollipops?
Quick Answer
Yes
Bug lollipops are safe to eat. They are typically made with edible insects encased in a hard candy shell. The insects used are farmed for human consumption, following the food safety standards.
What Is It?
Bug lollipops are a type of novelty candy that contain real, edible insects. The insects are typically encased in a clear, hard candy shell, allowing the consumer to see the insect inside.
Historical Context
Edible insects have been a part of human diets for thousands of years, particularly in many Eastern and African cultures. The trend of bug lollipops and other insect-based candies is relatively recent, and is often used as a way to introduce Western cultures to the concept of entomophagy, or the consumption of insects as food.
Why It Can Be Risky
While bug lollipops are generally safe to eat, there are a few potential risks to be aware of.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the insects used in these lollipops.
- Choking hazard: The hard candy shell can be a choking hazard, particularly for young children.
Safe Method?
To safely eat a bug lollipop, it should be consumed like any other hard candy. Do not attempt to bite into it immediately; instead, let it dissolve in your mouth over time. If you have any known food allergies, particularly to shellfish, it’s recommended to avoid eating bug lollipops as insects can trigger similar allergic reactions.
Safe Alternatives
If the idea of eating insects isn’t appealing, there are many other novelty lollipop flavors to try, such as spicy chili, bacon, or pickle.