If you travel around rural southern Africa, you're likely to come across mopane worms, either canned or at a market. We've found the taste described as “burned steak”, “crunchy and salty” (as anything will taste if you fry it, surely) and, of course, “butter and peanuts”.

Are mopane worms healthy?

The mopane worm is a healthful and cheap source of nutrition. A Zimbabwean nutritionist, Marlon Chidemo, says the worms are high in healthy nutrients and contain three times the amount of protein as beef.

What are the benefits of eating mopane worms?

Mopane worms provide a nutritious supplement to the traditional Shangaan diet, as they are almost 60% protein, and contain significant amounts of phosphorus, iron and calcium.