Small farmers in Masaka district are growing crickets as a high-protein snack and food source. Many had relied on poultry feed, which they said was expensive and unreliable. A local farmer, Josephine Nabbanga, said the cost stopped her from expanding her business.
Researchers from Uganda Christian University introduced a new cricket feed made from domestic food waste. The feed uses scraps that are heat-treated, dried and ground. Farmers say the new feed is cheaper and more efficient. It helps crickets mature in eight to ten weeks, faster than older local feeds, and farmers report they save money and hope to scale up their production.
Difficult words
- domestic food waste — leftover food from homes and households
- scrap — small pieces of food or leftoversscraps
- dry — not wet; with little or no waterdried
- grind — to make small pieces by crushingground
- efficient — works well with little time or cost
- mature — grow to full size or development
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you try crickets as food? Why or why not?
- How could cheaper feed help small farmers?
- What kinds of food waste could people use in your community?
Related articles
Crop losses threaten food security across Africa
Researchers say climate shocks, pests and diseases are increasing crop losses across Africa. Erratic rainfall, flooding and biological threats reduce yields, lower incomes and affect national food supplies and global commodity markets.
New cocoa fermenting box boosts farmers' incomes
In Kasawo, a locally made single cocoa fermenting box improves bean fermentation and helps farmers sell directly to exporters. Researchers report faster, better fermentation, higher prices and plans to scale up production across cocoa districts.
