Officials Launch Probe After Social Media Outcry

Authorities in South Korea are investigating a restaurant that served ants as garnishes, raising serious concerns about food safety violations. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety launched an investigation after photos of ant-topped dishes surfaced on blogs and social media. The restaurant reportedly added three to five ants per dish, serving over 12,000 such meals between April 2021 and January 2025. This practice brought in 120 million won (approx. US$87,400) in revenue.

Ants Used Without Approval

The restaurant imported two types of dried ants from the United States and Thailand through international mail. According to officials, the business never obtained temporary approval, which is mandatory for using non-approved insect species as food. “To serve ants legally, restaurants must follow proper food safety protocols,” said a ministry official. “We have referred the case to prosecutors and recommended administrative action to the local authorities.”

What’s Legal—and What’s Not?

South Korea currently allows 10 edible insect species, including grasshoppers, locusts, and mealworms. However, ants are not on the approved list under the country’s food regulations. Insects were first allowed for human consumption in South Korea in 2015. The industry has grown steadily, with insect farming generating 44.6 billion won (US$32.5 million) in 2021 alone.

Edible Insects Gaining Ground Globally

Globally, countries like Singapore, Thailand, and members of the European Union have already embraced edible insects. The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) continues to promote insects as a sustainable, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional livestock. Still, food safety rules vary, and failing to comply can land restaurants in legal trouble, as this case shows.

Source: My News