Mealworms The nutrition facts of mealworms may surprise you, especially if you have not yet tried them. These insects are naturally high in protein and fiber and have little to no fat, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians. They are also free from parasites and are a great source of energy. They are available only in dried form and should be sourced from a supplier approved by the European Union (EU).
While mealworms are not exceptionally nutritious, they are easy to raise. Mealworms are often fed wheat bran and are not a good source of fiber. However, researchers from Stanford University have found a way to feed mealworms polystyrene, a resource from which we can recycle plastics. Despite these mealworm nutrition facts, the only downside of this approach is that you must make sure you’re not feeding your animals anything that will harm them.
Mealworm Nutrition Facts
Here is a table of the nutrition facts for 100 grams of mealworms:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 206 | 10% |
| Total Fat | 6 g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.7 g | 9% |
| Cholesterol | 50 mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 50 mg | 2% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2 g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g | 3% |
| Sugars | 0.5 g | – |
| Protein | 36 g | 72% |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 30 mg | 2% |
| Iron | 5.5 mg | 31% |
| Potassium | 400 mg | 9% |
Note :*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. The % Daily Value for sugars is not established as there is no recommended daily intake for sugars.
What Are Mealworms?
Mealworms are the larvae of the black beetle Tenebrio Molitor, a darkling beetle species. When young, the larvae can reach a length of 1.5 cm, and when fully grown, they can reach a length of 2.5 cm.
They are more frequently thought of as sources of food for birds, reptiles, and domesticated animals. You may have also seen them on fear factor competitions where the winner had to stick their head into a bucket of wriggling mealworm larvae. Yet they’re not really that scary.
Are Mealworms Healthy For You?
Mealworms are high in essential nutrients and protein, and they’re far more environmentally friendly than meat. Mealworm powder contains 55 percent protein, all essential amino, and fatty acids, and more iron than sirloin beef in a single serving. Here are some health benefits of mealworms:
- Mealworms are packed with amino acids and have high levels of protein. They are comparable to the protein and fatty acids you find in meat and fish. Moreover, they have low levels of cholesterol.
- Mealworms are also good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower blood cholesterol and improve the healing ability of wounds. You should make sure you get enough of them each day for a balanced diet.
- While it may be tempting to consume mealworms in their natural state, keep in mind that their nutrition differs significantly from meat or fish. Vital amino acids, essential fatty acids, and even trace minerals are abundant in mealworms.
- They’re a high-protein, low-calorie food comparable to meat and fish in terms of nutrition, and their high-fat content also aids in the reduction of cholesterol. As a result, you should know the mealworm nutrition data before doing it yourself.
Mealworms are a great source of protein and are an excellent snack for people and pets. Humans have eaten for thousands of years, and many contemporary cultures still do. When mealworms are dried, they have a higher protein, fat, and moisture content than when they are alive. They are also a good source of fiber and vitamin A.
Health Concerns
Pet feeding on a small scale poses no risk to people. On the other hand, Mealworm infestations might pose a concern to humans in scenarios such as poultry farming. Adult beetles first create a category of toxins known as benzoquinones.
Humans are irritated by these substances, which cause allergy and asthma-like symptoms in poultry workers. These chemicals are also thought to be carcinogenic or cancer-causing substances—many of the poultry diseases carried by these worms, such as e. Coli, staph, avian flu, and salmonella, can also infect people.
How To Store Mealworms?
Mealworms purchased in cups should be refrigerated (between 42° and 55° F). They are bought in bulk and need to be prepared before being stored in the refrigerator. Mealworms in bulk are sent in a package with an egg cage.
The worms should be placed in a plastic container (the quantity of worms determines the size of your container). Aeration holes are required if your container has a lid. Fill the container halfway with mealworm bedding, then add the worms and another 1″ of bedding on top.
Mealworms can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks with minimal care. The mealworms should be taken out of the refrigerator after two weeks, and a small amount of Easy Water poured into the top of the bedding. Allow the mealworms to rest for about 24 hours at room temperature.
This will give them enough time to “wake up” and become more active, allowing them to eat and drink. Their dietary source is mealworm bedding. Remove any residual Easy Water and return the worms to the refrigerator after the 24-hour period has ended. Repeat this procedure every two weeks.
Adaman Dried Mealworms
Features
- Dried mealworms are super rich in protein, amino acids, and fats! Their essential nutrients are critical for healthier Chickens, Birds, Duck, Geese, Reptiles, Turtles, Hamsters, and more!
- Non-GMO, these mealworms were harvested with no preservatives and additives. These all-natural mealworms taste great and fit nicely with their nutritional diet.
- BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM & IMPROVES HEALTH
- Feeding Instructions: Simply scatter mealworms on the ground, and your pets will go crazy for a delicious mealworm treat. Best food for Chickens, mealworms for bearded dragons, mealworms for birds, mealworms for hamsters, turtle food, reptile food, and more!
- Dried mealworms bulk 5 lbs, more treats, and higher quality for your pets for less price. EASY TO STORE: No refrigeration required. Store and Reuse with a long shelf life.
Conclusion
Mealworms are a high-protein source. They are a great source of fiber and protein. Mealworms contain 55.4% of the recommended daily value of protein. They require minimal space, water, and food.
They are suitable for urban environments and are environmentally friendly. Mealworms are also a great source of protein. If you plan to feed your pets mealworms, remember to check their nutritional facts before giving them to your pets.
