As the cicada emergence of 2024 sweeps across parts of the United States, the buzzing insects are capturing attention for more than just their distinctive sound. Josh Wicker, a biology enthusiast from South Carolina, believes these critters shouldn't be feared — instead, they should be eaten. With a degree in biology focused on wildlife behavior, Josh sees cicadas as a unique culinary opportunity rather than a nuisance.
"Nature is a beautiful thing to observe. But when you can experience it, it's just that much cooler," Josh told Inside Edition Digital’s Andrea Swindall. His fascination with the natural world led him to explore the unconventional idea of incorporating cicadas into his diet. Inspired by cultures around the globe that include insects as a regular part of their cuisine, Josh decided to host an insect-themed dinner party.
"Around the world, a lot of people eat bugs and insects and different things but here in America not so much," he explained. "So, I was like 'Hey! Is anyone interested in eating bugs?' On YouTube and within about 30 minutes to an hour I had to stop people from saying yes I want in because I had too many people."
Josh's culinary creativity shone through as he crafted an extensive insect-filled Southern menu for the occasion. The dinner featured hors d'oeuvres designed to be eaten in a single bite to minimize any potential gag reflexes. "We went with hors d'oeuvres because we wanted something you could just put in your mouth in one bite because I wasn't wanting people to gag and throw up you know, on the video," he said.
The menu included pigs in a blanket with cicada heads sticking out, bacon-wrapped cicadas, and even some Cajun fish-fried cicadas. The reaction from his friends was mixed, ranging from curiosity to hesitation. While some were open to trying the crunchy delicacies, others were more apprehensive.
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For those willing to step out of their culinary comfort zone, the experience offers a new perspective on the age-old relationship between humans and the natural world.
To see the process of eating cicadas, click the video!
