Willy Makolo: “100 grams of caterpillars contain more protein than 100 grams of beef”

Nutritionist Willy Makolo told Radio Okapi that 100 grams of caterpillars provide more than 55 grams of protein, compared with about 30 grams in the same amount of beef. Abundant and relatively inexpensive, caterpillars are eaten by many Congolese households, particularly in Kananga, in Kasaï-Central province. Makolo cited benefits for growing children and pregnant women, and said caterpillars can help address anemia and fatigue after childbirth. He cautioned that not all caterpillar species are edible and said they must be identified by their color and natural habitat.