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| - Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick take
According to an article published on Slay News, Bill Gates has launched maggot milk for human consumption. We did a fact check to term it as False.
The claim
We came across an article published on Slay News, which claims that Bill Gates has launched an insect milk product called ‘EntoMilk’. The article alleges that this product is intended for the general public’s consumption.
Fact check
What is ‘maggot milk’?
‘Maggot milk’ refers to a product called EntoMilk, developed by the South African company Gourmet Grubb. EntoMilk is described as an environmentally friendly and nutrient-rich dairy alternative made from the larvae of the black soldier fly. The company has highlighted that this product is a sustainable source of nutrition due to the minimal environmental impact of insect farming compared to traditional dairy farming.
However, Gourmet Grubb has not shared any new posts on its social media accounts since 2020. And now, its official website redirects to an unrelated gambling website. This indicates that the company is no longer operational, and there have been no recent developments or launches related to EntoMilk.
Has Bill Gates really launched a product called EntoMilk?
No, Bill Gates has not launched a product called EntoMilk or any other insect-based milk product. The claim that Bill Gates has introduced maggot milk for human consumption is false. Videos and articles circulating online suggesting that Bill Gates is behind this initiative are misleading. The claim in question refers to a product from a company that is no longer in operation and had no partnership or involvement with Gates or his foundation .
What is entomophagy?
Entomophagy is the practice of eating insects, which is common in many cultures around the world. Insects have been consumed by humans for centuries and are considered a sustainable and nutritious food source. They are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals and have a lower environmental footprint compared to traditional livestock. Hence, they can be part of a balanced diet in future.
In many parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, insects are a regular part of the diet. They are eaten in various forms, including fried, roasted, or ground into flour for baking. Insects like crickets, mealworms, and locusts are popular choices due to their high nutritional value and ease of farming.
How many bugs do we accidentally eat?
It might be surprising to learn that we accidentally consume more insects than we realise. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the average person unintentionally eats around 500 grams of insects per year. The FAO reports that people ingest tiny insect fragments found in processed foods like chocolate, peanut butter, and canned fruits. The presence of insects in food is generally considered safe and is regulated by food safety authorities. Small amounts of insect parts are allowed in food products, as complete elimination is practically impossible and poses no health risks.
Are insects healthy to eat?
Yes, insects are healthy to eat and provide numerous nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of protein, often containing more protein per gram than traditional meat sources. Insects are also rich in essential amino acids, vitamins (such as B12 and riboflavin), minerals (like iron, zinc, and magnesium), and healthy fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
In addition to their nutritional value, insects are also environmentally sustainable. Insect farming requires significantly less land, water, and feed compared to traditional livestock farming. Insects produce fewer greenhouse gases and can be farmed on organic waste, making them a more eco-friendly protein source.
What are the potential risks of eating insects?
Insects are generally safe to eat, but there are potential risks associated with their consumption. Insects can carry pathogens or parasites that may cause illness if they are not properly cooked or processed. Additionally, some people may have allergic reactions to insect proteins, similar to shellfish allergies. It is important to ensure that insects are sourced from safe, regulated environments and are properly prepared to minimise health risks.
Conclusion
The claim that Bill Gates has launched ‘maggot milk’ for human consumption is false. EntoMilk, developed by a South African company that is no longer operational, has no connection with Gates. While entomophagy is a viable and sustainable nutrition source, Gates is not promoting it through ‘maggot milk’.There have been several false claims related to insects in food, like, food companies adding insects to their products, and WEF’s stance on insect based diet in the past as well. Therefore, it is important to verify information to prevent the spread of false news.
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