Entomophagy Factors: The Consumption of Palm Weevil Larvae in Maniema Households

This is an investigation of the factors that influence the consumption of palm weevil larvae (Rhynchophorus) and other insects, as well as related practices in the Maniema region, Eastern DRC.These insect larvae are preferred fresh (90.3%) and eaten mainly with cornmeal (69%), and cassava pasta or rice (28.8%).Besides palm weevils, other insects are also eaten, to a much lesser degree; notably termites (84.7%), caterpillars (75.3%), rhinoceros beetles (14.7%), crickets (0.7%), and grasshoppers (4%).There is a correlation between the consumption of various insects and meats, as well as notable geographical disparities between the urban municipalities, particularly in terms of sourcing patterns and the intensity of entomophagy and meat consumption, both of which are expensive commodities.A more favorable socio-economic situation in the city center is accompanied by more intense insect-consumption, and purchasing (84.9%) vs. gathering (15.1%).Gathering is also typical of rural and suburban communities in this forest environment.In contrast with findings elsewhere, insect-eating in Kindu city is more intensive among the rich and the middle class and the more educated people, as well as in wealthier neighborhoods.