Latinsect

Widely spread around the world, insect consumption has been studied in some places by entomologists or ethnobiologists, but until now, very few studies have highlighted how this consumption is rooted in cultural representations, imagery, social status, and practices. The goal of this project is to systematically study the representation of insect consumption in different multicultural countries in Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil), focusing on the species traded and consumed in both rural and urban areas. It also questions how, at a local level, the collection, processing, trade, and consumption of insects can constitute biocultural heritage, and, at a broader level, what actions of heritage-making involving edible insects are or are not being carried out. Eventually, how does this consumption reveal tensions between social classes and ethnic groups? By analyzing environmental and culinary knowledge, threats to the insect environment, and the nutritional quality of insects, the project ultimately aims to value this heritage, support local actors in sustainable exploitation and food security, and co-construct knowledge with them to address food-related issues for the future.

Study the representations of insect consumption in different multicultural countries of Latin America (Mexico, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil), focusing on the species traded and consumed in both rural and urban areas.

Record local knowledge of edible insects with commercial potential.

Document the commercial circuit of edible insects.

Record local knowledge regarding edible insects with commercial potential.

Document the commercial supply chain for edible insects.