Endogenous Knowledge of Edible Insects in North Sudanian Localities of Burkina Faso

Background: The global interest in edible insects is increasing all the more so as there is a diversity of edible insects in the world. They are nutritionally useful because of their content of animal proteins, lipids, minerals and vitamins. In Burkina Faso, more than 10 species of edible insects have been identified. To gain a better understanding of the local knowledge of edible insects in certain localities of the country where there is little information, this study aimed to assess the endogenous knowledge of edible insects encountered in these localities. Methods: The survey was carried out among 183 informants in three villages located in the North Sudanian zone of Burkina Faso. The questionnaire focused the number of known edible insects, modes of preparation, information on commercialization and the availability of bans, as well as edible and medicinal properties. Chi-square analysis was used to determine whether there were statistically significant differences among villages, ethnic group, and religious in knowledge and preference for edible insects Results: Five species namely Carbula marginella (Hemiptera), Macrotermes subhyalinus (Blattodea), Kraussaria angulifera (Orthoptera), Gryllus campestris (Orthoptera) and Sternocera interrupta (Coleoptera) were identified as edible insects. Interestingly, C. marginella was the most frequently cited edible species (91.26%). Sternocera interrupta (Coleoptera) with 21.85% was mentioned for the first time in these localities increasing the number of edible insects. Women were the main actors in the commercialization of the insect and C. marginella was sold between 5,000 and 15,000 FCFA per kilogram. Conclusion: Edible insects represent a potential source of income. The use of insects is part of the cultural habits of the local populations.