Insect-Based Protein in Free Meal Program May Not Suit Everyone, Says IPB Lecturer

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Professor of Agricultural Entomology at Bogor Agricultural University (IPB), Purnama Hidayat, confirmed that insects could be a protein alternative in the free nutritious meal (MBG) program. However, he stressed that insect consumption is not common in all communities.

"It could be an alternative source of protein, but it is suitable for those willing to consume and in certain areas that support its availability," stated Purnama in a written statement on Thursday, February 13, 2025.

Dadan Hindayan, head of the National Food Agency (BGN), previously suggested using insects as a food source, noting that the MBG menu should be tailored to each region's resources and preferences.

Purnama, who is also a lecturer in the Department of Plant Protection at IPB, mentioned that people in Thailand, Vietnam, and China regularly consume insects. Some Indonesians also eat insects, such as fried grasshoppers in Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta; teak caterpillars in Central Java; and bee larvae (botok tawon) in East Java.

Grasshoppers and crickets are often compared to shrimp in taste. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has also recognized insects as edible due to their protein, vitamin, and amino acid content. Insects contain complete animal protein, including all nine essential amino acids.

According to several studies, crickets, grasshoppers, and silkworms have three times more antioxidants than orange juice. The vitamin B12 content in crickets is also three times higher than in salmon.

However, Purnama emphasized that not all local communities are willing or able to consume insects. Coastal communities, he noted, often prefer fish as a protein source. "Many people are still reluctant to consume insects because they are not familiar with them," he explained.

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