Harvesting, culinary importance and nutritional value of “toritos” (Umbonia reclinata G. 1835) (Homoptera: Membracidae) used as food in Tlaxcala, Mexico

Abstract Using the techniques of the AOAC, the nutritional value of the edible insect called “toritos” was quantified. This evaluated organism is rich mainly in crude protein (29.06%), true protein (20.61%), pepsin digestible protein (25.11%) and in ether extract (40.32%). In aminoacids is rich in glutamic acid and lysine, in minerals it is rich in calcium (0.020). In fatty acids, the highest figures correspond to oleic 59.48%, palmitic 17.50% and alpha linoleic 13.44% and presents significant amounts of vitamins D (3.461 μg/ml) and E (1.238 μg/ml). Due to the high percentage of protein, calcium and fatty acids reported, as well as the quality of its protein, these insects could potentially improve the nutritional status of the rural population located in some municipalities of this state. In addition, these insects are widely sought collected, and accepted as a part of the diet, for their consumption.