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Sustainable Solutions for Future Generations

Nutrition from nature, safety enhanced by science, creating healthy choices for humanity.

What is the mealworm beetle?



A collective term for insects of the Tenebrionidae family (order Coleoptera), many of which are also found in Korea.



Scientific Name
  Tenebrio molitor Linneaus, 1758
Classification
Kingdom  Animalia
Phylum  Arthropoda
Class  Insecta
Order  Coleoptera
Family  Tenebrionidae
Genus  Tenebrio
Species  T. molitor


Nutritional Value of Mealworms


ใ†Approved as a food ingredient by Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (March 2016)
ใ†High in protein, fatty acids, and vitamins
ใ†Emerging as a key future industry through eco-friendly farming practices


Components
Content(g/100g)
Kcal541.86
Moisture
2.90
Carbohydrate
9.32
Fat
33.77
Protein
50.32
Fiber
4.84

Source: National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, RDA(2013)

Efficacy of Edible Insects According to Their Functional Components


Rice grasshopperใ†High protein content → Supports protein intake
ใ†Rich in trypsin → Enhances digestive function
ใ†Helps treat asthma, strengthens digestive function, and boosts vitality
Mealworm
ใ†High in unsaturated fatty acids
ใ†Rich in minerals and dietary fiber → Beneficial for dietary management
ใ†Has therapeutic effects on cough, phlegm, stroke, and partial paralysis (hemiplegia)
White-spotted flower chafer
ใ†Niacin → Detoxification and blood circulation
ใ†Tonic, pain relief, and treatment of skin sores
Silkworm pupae
ใ†Lecithin → Development of brain nerve cell tissues
ใ†Supports physical and mental development, works as a fever reducer, helps prevent diabetes, improves lipid metabolism, and enhances skin hydration.
Fire ant
ใ†Rich in moisture and fiber → Prevention of hypertension
ใ†Beneficial for the treatment of coughs, colds, asthma, and arteriosclerosis.
Cricket
ใ†Tocopherol → Enhances alcohol detoxification ability
ใ†Activates glutathione S-transferase
ใ†Works as a fever reducer and diuretic, helps treat nerve paralysis and urinary retention, and supports liver protection.

Source: Resource Utilization and Applications of Insects in Various Countries(2000)