When it comes to drinks, most people think of refreshing, delicious, and healthy beverages. However, not all drinks are created equal, and some may even contain unexpected ingredients like bugs. In this article, we’ll explore what drinks have bugs in them and why they’re used.
Welcome to this topic discussion on drinks that have bugs in them. In this discussion, we will dive into the different types of drinks that could potentially have bugs in them and explore the reasons behind the prevalence of bugs in our beverages. We will also discuss the health implications of consuming bugs in drinks and the measures taken by regulatory bodies to ensure our safety. Join me as we venture into this fascinating and slightly unsettling topic.
Why Use Bugs in Drinks?
Before diving into what drinks have bugs in them, it’s important to understand why bugs are used in the first place. In many cultures, insects are a common source of protein and are considered a delicacy. Consuming insects is also environmentally sustainable as they require less water and land to produce compared to traditional livestock.
Moreover, some insects like beetles, caterpillars, and ants contain compounds that add unique flavors, colors, and aromas to food and drinks. For example, cochineal, a red dye used in many processed foods and beverages, is made from crushed female beetles. Therefore, using bugs in drinks is not necessarily a bad thing, and they may even offer some health benefits.
Health Benefits of Bugs in Drinks
Bugs are a rich source of protein and contain essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Insects like crickets, grasshoppers, and mealworms are particularly high in protein and have been shown to promote muscle growth, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation.
Moreover, some insects like ants and termites contain high levels of antioxidants that protect against cellular damage and aging. They also have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help prevent infections and chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Drinks with Bugs
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of bugs in drinks let’s explore what drinks have bugs in them. Here are some examples:
1. Mezcal with Worms
Mezcal is a type of Mexican liquor made from the agave plant. It has a smoky flavor and is often served with a worm at the bottom of the bottle. The worm, also known as the gusano, is actually a type of caterpillar that feeds on the agave plant. It’s believed to enhance the flavor and potency of the mezcal and is often consumed as a tradition.
2. Cocktails with Bitters
Bitters are aromatic alcoholic beverages made from the bark, roots, and leaves of various plants. They’re used as a flavoring agent in cocktails and are known to have digestive and medicinal properties. Some bitters, like the Angostura bitters, contain cochineal, which gives them a reddish color. Therefore, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may want to avoid bitters that contain cochineal.
3. Tea with Insects
In some countries like China, Taiwan, and Thailand, tea is often served with insects like crickets, grasshoppers, and centipedes. The insects are usually fried or roasted and are believed to add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the tea. Moreover, they’re considered a source of protein and are said to have health benefits like boosting energy and improving digestion.
4. Smoothies with Protein Powder
Protein powder is a popular supplement used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to increase muscle mass and strength. However, some protein powders contain insect protein like cricket flour, which is made from ground crickets. Insect protein is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional protein sources like whey and soy, and may offer similar health benefits.
5. Beer with Hops
Hops are a type of flower that’s used to flavor and preserve beer. They’re also known to have sedative and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help promote relaxation and reduce pain. However, hops are often infested with aphids, which are small insects that feed on the plant sap. Therefore, some beers may contain traces of aphids, although they’re usually filtered out during the brewing process.
FAQs for what drinks have bugs in them
What are some popular drinks that may have bugs in them?
There are a few popular drinks that may have bugs in them, including tequila, mezcal, and mescaline. Tequila and mezcal both come from the agave plant, which is known to attract a particular type of bug known as the agave weevil. While most distilleries take steps to remove any bugs before the fermentation and distillation process, it is still possible to find remnants of the insect in some bottles. Mescaline, on the other hand, is derived from the peyote cactus, which is known to have a type of insect that feeds on it.
Are there any health concerns related to consuming bugs in drinks?
While it may not sound appetizing to most people, consuming bugs in drinks is generally considered safe. In fact, some cultures have been consuming insects as a source of protein for thousands of years. However, it is important to note that some people may have allergic reactions to certain types of bugs, so it is always a good idea to be cautious and consult a doctor if you experience any adverse effects.
How can I tell if a drink has bugs in it?
In most cases, you won’t be able to tell if a drink has bugs in it just by looking at it. This is because most bugs are removed during the distillation process, and any remaining fragments would be too small to see with the naked eye. Some people may be able to detect a slight difference in taste or texture if there are bug remnants in the drink, but this is not always the case.
Is it legal to include bugs in drinks?
In most countries, including bugs in drinks is legal. However, it is important for distilleries and manufacturers to follow strict regulations regarding the use of insects in food and beverages. This includes ensuring that bugs are safe for consumption, and that they are properly cleaned and processed before being added to drinks.
Can I avoid drinking bugs by choosing certain types of alcohol?
While some types of alcohol are more prone to containing bugs than others, it is difficult to completely avoid the possibility of consuming bugs in drinks. However, if you are particularly concerned about this issue, it may be helpful to research different brands and distilleries to see if they have a reputation for thoroughly cleaning their ingredients and removing any bugs.