Consumption of Insects can prevent infectious diseases
Adewusi Yinka
The Dean of Faculty of Science , Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Olusegun Lawal has disclosed that frequent consumption of Insects can prevent infectious diseases. Prof. Lawal disclosed this at a lecture he delivered at the institution’s 94th Inaugural lecture.on February 11th 2020 The Entomologist( expert in insects study) also said Nigerians should make insects eating as an habit for its alternative to source of protein ,. In a lecturlecture titled “Insects : The Perceived Enemies With Veritable Vaults of Resources,”
Prof Lawal discloses that eating of Insects will trigger low the demands on beef meats and other source of protein .
According to him “it gladdens my heart to showcase my research work on Entomophagy which is the technical term for insect-eating. A report by the FAO (2013) shows that the global population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, which means we will need to increase food production by 50% to be able to feed the extra 2 billion people. When considering climate change which is expected to reduce agricultural produce by more than 25%, with negative impacts on meat production and the environment, there is need to quickly identify alternative food source that can meet the need for additional food. Entomorphagy has been recognised as a feasible option by FAO for food sustainability. Humans have harvested the eggs, larvae, pupae and adults of certain insect species from forests or other suitable habitats to eat for thousands of years.”
Lawal said Insects are very important primary and secondary decomposers. and as such they are a major part of the ecosystem “Without them to help break down and dispose wastes, dead animals and plants would accumulate in our environment and it would be messy indeed. Insects are crucial components of many ecosystems, where they perform many significant functions. They aerate the soil, pollinate flowering plants to blossom and control insect and plant pests. Many insects, especially beetles, are scavengers, who feed on dead animals and fallen trees, thereby recycle nutrients into the soil. ”
The Professor who is the Dean, Faculty of Science, of the school with extensive research knowledge on insects in the Southwest of Nigeria, their uses and management, said there are 17 identifiable species of insects, one species of arachnida, three species of mollusca and crustacea which were being used as herbal remedies for ‘Thunderbolts,’ mental illness, dizziness and protection against wicked people..The University Don however regrets the little efforts of the government in disvovering the full potentials of insects “It is very important for people to understand that insects have several uses that may be cultural, medicinal and symbolic. The practical uses of insects in science and technology, textiles, warfare and as food cannot be overemphasised. However, the use of insects has not been fully utilised There is need to initiate an insect rearing programme on a national scale in Nigeria. Therefore, farming of insects should be employed as way of promoting entomophagy (eating of insects) in Nigeria.”