Insect consumption in the arctic

Abstract

The Inuit live in the circumpolar regions of Greenland, Canada, USA, and eastern Russia. Largely a maritime culture, the Inuit also rely upon caribou (Rangifer tarandus L.) for sustenance. The Oestridae flies Hypoderma (Oedemagena) tarandi (L.) and Cephenemyia trompe (M.) commonly infect caribou with their larvae. The Oestridae larvae grow under the hides or in the nasopharyngeal cavities of caribou. When Inuit harvest the caribou, the grubs may be collected and eaten, too. While a fading practice, there is a rich history and lore about the Inuit and edible insects. This history is brought to life in this chapter on traditions for eating insects in North American Arctic cultures. Herein, we provide a biological overview of the Oestrid flies, including a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of what is known about the nutritional benefits of Oestridae larvae to Inuit food security and food innovation. The chapter concludes with a discussion about how insect farming in the north by Indigenous peoples may provide a modern way to address bio-waste problems in a productive way.