Instead of cow's milk cockroach milk as the healthier alternative?

Cockroach milk is healthy and contains a lot of protein

When it comes to nutrition, there is always a new food every year that is good for your health, but not necessarily for all consumers. This could also apply to a new so-called superfood, which is the milk of cockroaches.

Researchers at the Institute of Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine found in their study that cockroach milk contains essential amino acids and high levels of protein. This could make cockroach milk the next so-called superfood. The experts published the results of their study in the English language journal of the International Union of Crystallography "IUCrJ".

Many people already feel feelings of disgust when they see a cockroach. Surely it would be inconceivable for such people to consume milk from cockroaches. Researchers now found that cockroach milk appears to be a superfood. (Image: Geza Farkas / fotolia.com)

What makes the milk of cockroaches so healthy?

It has long been known to researchers that the milk of a particular type of cockroach is very nutritious and contains up to three or four times more protein than normal milk. In addition, all the essential amino acids that the human body needs are included.

Pacific Beetle Cockroach gives birth to live young

This particularly healthy milk comes from a specific cockroach species, which occurs in Hawaii. This cockroach is referred to as the Pacific Beetle Cockroach. Compared to other types of cockroaches that usually lay eggs, the Pacific Beetle Cockroach actually gives birth to live kittens. The dams give their offspring a milk-like substance containing protein-rich crystals. These crystals are almost a complete food. In other words, they could be called a kind of superfood.

South African company has already developed an insect milk

A South African company called Gourmet Grubb has now developed a product called Entomilk. This drink is basically the milk of farmed insects. The product is supposedly a nutritious, cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to other milk.

What are the problems??

Making cockroach milk a new trend in nutrition could still cause some problems. This is because most people are certainly not keen on drinking the milk of insects. It is also not so easy, according to the producers, to get the milk from insects or cockroaches. In addition, it is not yet completely clear whether this milk is suitable for human consumption. Although the milk is a real superfood for insects, it could be intolerable to humans.

Why Superfood?

Superfood refers to foods that are very rich in compounds that prevent disease and are beneficial to general health. For example, broccoli, blueberries and salmon are often referred to as superfoods. However, there is no scientific basis or general regulation for foods that are considered superfood, the researchers explain.

A balanced diet is very important

So-called superfood is very nutritious, but experts suggest that people should focus on a balanced diet rather than a superfood. It's important to get a variety of minerals from different foods, not just one type of food that can provide only certain nutrients. (As)