Introduction

Mealworms are one of the most popular forms of insects for human consumption, and for good reason. They are high in protein, low in fat, and contain essential vitamins and minerals. With the world’s population expected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, mealworms could play a crucial role in meeting the increasing demand for protein. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about raising, feeding, and harvesting mealworms, so you can enjoy their benefits while also helping to reduce your carbon footprint.

What are Mealworms?

Mealworms are the larvae of the darkling beetle, a type of beetle that is native to North America. They are also commonly known as yellow mealworms, and are sometimes used as food for reptiles, birds, and other animals. However, in recent years, mealworms have been gaining popularity as a food source for humans, as they are a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources like beef, pork, and chicken.

Benefits of Eating Mealworms

There are many reasons why mealworms are becoming a popular food source for humans. Firstly, they are high in protein, with a 100g serving providing around 14g of protein. This makes them an excellent source of energy and a great option for athletes, bodybuilders, and anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Additionally, mealworms are low in fat, with only 2g per 100g serving, making them a healthy option for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Mealworms are also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against harmful free radicals and prevent chronic diseases. Furthermore, mealworms are a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources, as they require significantly less land, water, and energy to produce, making them a more environmentally friendly option.

Raising Mealworms

Raising mealworms is relatively easy and can be done in the comfort of your own home. To get started, you will need to purchase a mealworm farm or build one yourself using a plastic container and some bedding material, such as oatmeal, wheat bran, or sawdust. You will also need to provide food for your mealworms, such as carrots, potatoes, or apples.

Once you have set up your mealworm farm, simply add your mealworms and wait for them to grow and develop into beetles. This process typically takes around 4-5 months, and during this time, you will need to feed your mealworms and keep the temperature and humidity levels consistent. You may also need to remove any dead mealworms to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, which can be harmful to your mealworms. Ideal Room Tempreature Should be around 24 degreses celcius.

Feeding Mealworms

One of the key aspects of raising mealworms is ensuring that they are properly fed. Mealworms are omnivores, meaning that they will eat both plant and animal-based materials. The best food for mealworms includes carrots, potatoes, apples, and other fruits and vegetables, as well as grains and cereals. You can also feed your mealworms with a small amount of dried dog food or cat food, which will provide them with the protein and other nutrients they need to grow and develop.

When feeding your mealworms, it is important to remember that they need a consistent supply of food and water. You can provide water for your mealworms by placing a piece of damp paper towel or cloth in the container or by misting the bedding material with water. You should also be careful not to overfeed your mealworms, as this can leadto mold and bacterial growth, which can harm your mealworms and potentially contaminate your food source.

Harvesting Mealworms

When it comes time to harvest your mealworms, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you will need to separate the beetles from the mealworms and remove any dead insects, as well as any uneaten food and bedding material. You can then place your mealworms in a container with food, such as carrots, potatoes, or apples, until they are ready to be eaten.

It is important to remember that mealworms should be cooked before they are consumed, as they may contain harmful bacteria or parasites that could cause illness. The easiest way to cook mealworms is to roast them in the oven, which will give them a crispy texture and a nutty flavor. You can also sauté or fry them, or add them to soups, stews, and other dishes.

Conclusion

Mealworms are a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional protein sources, and are becoming increasingly popular as a food source for humans. With their high protein content, low fat levels, and essential vitamins and minerals, mealworms are a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet. Raising mealworms is relatively easy, and can be done in the comfort of your own home with the right materials and equipment. Whether you are looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply want to try something new, mealworms are definitely worth considering. The links below take you to amazon. Alternativly you can purchase Dried Mealworms from us directly HERE!

You can buy a Mealworm Farm on Amazon by clicking HERE

You can buy LIVE Mealworms on Amazon by clicking HERE