VOICED: Bugs offer hope to Laos' undernourished

Insect farming in Laos is being promoted by the World Health Organization to combat malnutrition and generate income. The initiative encourages locals to become insect farmers, focusing on crickets as a protein source. With minimal investment, cricket farming is profitable and suitable for urban areas. Research is ongoing to make insect farming more cost-efficient, with students exploring alternative feeds like vegetables.

What is the primary goal of the World Health Organization's program in Laos?

• To increase the use of pesticides

• To promote traditional farming methods

• To reduce the population of insects

• To encourage the consumption of insects

How much can farmers sell crickets for at the market?

• $10.00 per kilo

• $7.00 per kilo

• $5.00 per kilo

• $12.00 per kilo

What is one advantage of cricket farming compared to chicken farming?

• Higher levels of pollution

• Requires more space

• More complex infrastructure

• Less investment needed

What alternative feed have students found effective for crickets?

• Fruits

• Grains

• Vegetables

• Fish

What do students plan to do after completing their studies?

• Focus on traditional agriculture

• Move to a different country

• Start their own cricket farm

• Work in a corporate job