People across Europe many soon be able to buy dried yellow mealworms in food stores and in restaurants.
Earlier this month, the European Union's 27 nations approved a proposal to put Tenebrio molitor beetle larva on the market as a "novel food."
The move came after the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) ruled the insect safe to eat.
Researchers described the mealworm as a protein-rich food. They said the larva can be eaten whole or crushed into small pieces for mixing with other foods.
People with allergies to dust or shellfish -- such as crab, lobster, or clams -- may also be allergic to mealworms, the European Commission said.
Insects as food represent a very small market. However, EU officials said raising them for food could be good for the environment.
The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization calls insects "a healthy and highly nutritious food source" with high amounts "of fat, protein, vitamins, fibers, and minerals."
Following the approval by EU states, a EU regulation authorizing dried yellow mealworms as a food will be coming soon.
I'm Anna Matteo.
