Need protein? Eat Termites!

we all already know the name of termites, insects destroying buildings or parts of buildings or equipment made from wood. This is closely related to the ability to eat very fast. Yet many of us know is true that some types of termites contain high protein which can be used as an alternative food source for humans.

Termite expert who is also Professor of Bogor Agricultural University, Prof. Dodi Nandika, stating, from his research there are two genera of termites contain a high protein, namely Macrotermis Glyptotermes spp and spp. "In fact, in Indonesia there are approximately 300 species, 233 species which exist on the island of Java, Sumatra, and Borneo. Imagine the potential. This is actually a blessing in disguise of a stronger character as a destroyer of wood, "says Dodi.

According to Dodi, the use of termites as a source of high protein foods can be started from a simple nature, such as various snacks such as peanut brittle termites, to process them into candy.

Termites have long been used as an extra for chicken feed. Given the large numbers in the country, is not hard to find termites in neighborhood residents. If necessary, the termites are also farmed.

So far the general public only knew the termite as a destructive animal. With the ability to eat wood powder 0.02 milligrams per head per day and live in colonies that reach 1-2 million birds per colony, termites can be considered as the main enemy of mankind. Moreover, Indonesia's tropical conditions, with humidity of 70-90%, strongly supports the development of termites.

Climate change is noted that accelerated development and ultimately exacerbating the termite damage to buildings and equipment of a man made of wood. Based on his research last two years, for example, 55% of the buildings in Jakarta have been damaged by termites, in Surabaya, Semarang, 41% and 36%. Financial loss to be borne nationally is estimated at 3.73 million U.S. dollars.

"It is estimated that approximately 30% of schools were destroyed in Indonesia is mainly by termites attack and seemed to be made easier by the construction and use of low quality wood," says Dodi.

Now, with the termites cultivate means we also helped reduce the percentage of damaged schools in Indonesia. The more cultivated, the better. Anyone interested?