Cicada

Bio-Activity Analysis
Protein Density Comparison
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Complete Protein Source: Contains all nine essential amino acids crucial for muscle repair and growth.
- Mineral Boost: Naturally high in Iron (for energy) and Zinc (for immunity).
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids without the unhealthy trans fats found in processed foods.
Deep Dive
Cicadas are a nutritional powerhouse because of their diet—tree roots—which allows them to accumulate minerals from the soil. From a purely biological standpoint, they function as nature's multivitamin. They are particularly valuable for those looking to increase their protein intake without relying on land-intensive livestock farming. Their exoskeleton contains chitin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria.
Natural Food Sources
Unlike vitamins found in produce, cicadas are the source themselves. They are seasonal, appearing in late spring and early summer. They are often harvested and prepared as a savory snack.
| Food | Amount | % DV |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Cicadas | 1 oz (approx 20) | -- |
| Protein | 10g | 20% |
| Iron | 2.5mg | 14% |
| Zinc | 1.8mg | 16% |
Supplementation
Cicadas are rarely found in pill form. To get the benefits, you must consume the whole insect, usually roasted, fried, or ground into a powder. Important: Ensure cicadas are harvested from pesticide-free areas. Do not consume them if you have a known allergy to shellfish (crustaceans), as the proteins are similar.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Who should avoid it? Individuals with shellfish allergies (due to cross-reactivity of tropomyosin). Always cook cicadas thoroughly to kill potential parasites or bacteria. Avoid harvesting near roadsides or treated lawns to prevent heavy metal or pesticide ingestion.
Scientific References
- [1]FAO: Edible Insects - Future prospects for food and feed security
- [2]Journal of Asia-Pacific Entomology: Nutritional composition of cicadas
- [3]Nutrients Journal: Chitin and Gut Health