Contributed by Janet Keeler
Much to the relief of some of the other Zest team members, Janet Keeler willingly took on the assignment of reviewing BugsGiving at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida. This sold-out event was all about eating edible insects and understanding why that’s important, and Janet took part in a behind-the-scenes tasting with Chef Joseph Yoon. Chef Yoon is the Executive Director ofBrooklyn Bugs, an organization that advocates for incorporating edible bugs thoughtfully into the American culinary experience.
Bugs are plentiful and 80 percent of nations around the world use edible insects in one way or another as a food source, according to Yoon. They can be an important part way to provide food security and improve sustainability.
Brooklyn Bug’s mission is to raise appreciation and awareness for edible insects through delicious, educational, and creative programming. During 2019-2020, the Brooklyn Bug team is touring the country to provide workshops, cooking demonstrations, seminars and so on to show people and communities how they can incorporate this abundant protein source.
“This is not post apocalyptic food or something for poor people or as a last resort, but rather this is a wonderful, responsible, delicious opportunity for us to be able to adopt something that can be a) delicious, b) fun, and c) something that will leave something better for future generations,”
– Joesph Yoon, Chef & Executive Dir. Brooklyn Bugs