Stigma? Why? What even is that?

˙Welcome back to another semester of fun and bugs!!!!! Here soon we will begin the adventures of raising the mealworms and learning about that process first-hand. And don't worry, any and all updates will be added here for leisure reading or insightful tips and tricks (do's and definitely some don'ts). 

So we've introduced entomophagy and where its common. But lets talk about stigma. 

A stigma is defined as "a mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person" 

                    Thanks google :)

So in this instance, the stigma, or disgrace associated with eating insects. Where did that come from?

According to TheConversation.com, there is an "ick-factor" that plays a significant role. Bugs are seen in the ground and squashed and scaly and yucky, why would we want to put that into our bodies????? Well this idea that bugs are dirty or gross is a main contributor to their lack of consumption. Makes sense. I mean I don't go around eating food that's fallen onto the ground and covered in dirt, much less a living creatures that LIVES its entire life in the dirt! Crazy concept. BUT. There are so many benefits within the genetic structure of insects that could not only be healthy for humans but could aid in the suppression of climate change and over-harvesting and bad eating habits. 

What mainly keeps you from eating bugs? Could your mind be changed?

This year, my team and I will be asking fellow humans this question and see if minds can be changed. Or at least, if knowledge can be shared!!

Thanks and we'll catch up soon!

Stay Buggy!