Is Eating Tarantulas Good For Gains?

Published on May 29, 2023.

Where do people eat tarantulas?

Tarantulas are typically eaten in the town of Skuon. Skuon is located in Cambodia and is often referred as “Spider Town” because of their reputation of serving fried tarantula as a local delicacy. In Skuon, they prepare the tarantula by marinating them in a mixture of salt, sugar, and MSG before deep-frying them. People who have tried tarantula have described it as crunchy on the outside and soft, meaty inside. Many locals in Cambodia and tourists visit Skuon to try some fried tarantula. Another place where people eat tarantulas is in Amazonas, a region of Venezuela. Tarantulas are typically called “tropical crabs” or “araguato crabs” because of the tarantulas’ resemblance to crabs in terms of texture and flavor. First thing they do is pluck the legs off the tarantulas. Next, the body is fried, roasted, or boiled. Similar to the town of Skuon, they eat tarantulas as a cultural tradition and a way to use local resources for survival.

Okay? Will eating tarantulas help me get gains?

I guess you could say yes. Tarantulas are a decent source of protein however that can vary depending on the species and the diet of the tarantula. Typically, tarantulas contain 10-20 grams of protein per 100 grams of edible portion. They also provide essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium. We haven’t ever tried tarantula so we can’t guarantee if it’ll taste any good, but it’s on our bucket list.

Is eating tarantulas safe?

Yes, they are safe to eat. Make sure to properly prepare and cook tarantula for obvious reasons. Another thing you should do if you plan on eating/preparing tarantulas is finding tarantulas from reputable suppliers. Make sure they are free of pesticides and toxins and cook the tarantulas. Deep-frying is the most common way tarantula is prepared so we recommend you stick with deep-frying them first. Also, there is a chance you could be allergic to tarantula so be safe.

Pros:

Protein source: Tarantulas can provide a decent amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall health.
Novelty and cultural experience: Trying tarantulas can be a unique culinary adventure, offering a chance to explore different cultures and their food traditions. It can be an interesting experience for those who enjoy trying new and exotic foods.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly: Insects, including tarantulas, are often touted as a more sustainable protein source compared to conventional livestock farming. They require fewer resources like water, land, and feed, and they generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Cons:

Arachnid aversion: Many people have an innate aversion or fear of spiders, making the thought of consuming tarantulas unappealing or uncomfortable for them.
Limited availability: Tarantulas are not widely available in most parts of the world. They are primarily consumed in specific regions, such as Cambodia, and may not be accessible or easily obtained in other locations.
Allergic reactions and health risks: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to tarantulas or other insects. There is also a potential risk of consuming harmful pathogens or toxins if the tarantulas are not properly sourced, handled, or cooked.
Ethical concerns: There can be ethical concerns surrounding the sourcing and harvesting of tarantulas for food. It is essential to ensure that the tarantulas are obtained through sustainable and ethical practices, and their populations are not significantly affected.

QUESTIONS?

Feel free to ask us about anything. We will answer your questions or concerns as best as we can.