Tag: Termites

Cellulose is the most abundant organic polymer on Earth, making up the majority of a plant's cell walls. Yet, despite this abundance, humans cannot eat wood and derive nutrition from it. The answer lies in a complex interplay of molecular structure, missing enzymes, and evolutionary adaptation that makes wood indigestible for us.

Did you know that a 100-gram serving of termites can provide 75% more calories than a similar portion of rump steak? This fact hints at just how nutritious termites are, and why they are valued as a rich source of protein and fat in many cultures across Africa, Asia, and South America.

According to numerous nutritional studies, 100 grams of winged termites (alates) can contain approximately 35–45 grams of protein, a figure that varies significantly by species and preparation. This makes them a highly concentrated source of protein, comparable to, and in some cases exceeding, conventional protein sources on a dry-weight basis.

An estimated two billion people worldwide incorporate insects into their diet, and a significant portion of these consumers live in Africa, where entomophagy is a long-standing tradition in many regions. Do African countries eat bugs? Yes, the practice is widespread, with insects serving as a vital and nutrient-rich food source for millions of people.

Since at least 1948, products containing boric acid have been used for pest control in the United States. The boron treatment uses naturally occurring borate minerals to protect wood from a variety of wood-destroying organisms, including insects and decay fungi. This comprehensive guide explains what the boron treatment is, how it works, and its practical applications.