Ethnographic mapping of edible insects in Tanzania: cultural knowledge, biodiversity, and food system implications

Edible insects have long contributed to food security, nutrition, and cultural identity in sub-Saharan Africa, yet systematic ethnographic documentation remains limited in many countries, including Tanzania. The lack of coordinated data constrains policy integration, conservation planning, and safe food system development.

This study employed a mixed-methods ethnographic design combining geo-referenced household surveys (n = 131), semi-structured interviews, key informant discussions, participant observations, and specimen collection across nine regions of Tanzania (2022-2025). Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to map existence of insects in their habitats as mentioned by the respondents for harvest and consumption hotspots, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to document cultural practices, taboos, and perceptions related to edible insects.

Over 40 edible insect taxa across six taxonomic orders were documented, consumed by 29 ethnic groups. Orthoptera and Lepidoptera were the most widely consumed orders. Consumption patterns were strongly shaped by cultural norms, seasonality, ecological habitats, and sensory preferences. Edible insects were integrated into child feeding practices, with82% of respondents reporting feeding insects to children under five years. Medicinal and therapeutic uses were widely reported, though some adverse health effects were linked to poor hygiene and processing practices rather than inherent toxicity.

Edible insects remain culturally embedded, nutritionally valued, and ecologically significant in Tanzania. However, erosion of indigenous knowledge, habitat pressures, and limited food safety awareness threaten their sustainability. This study provides the first national ethnographic baseline to inform nutrition policy, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable insect-based food system development in Tanzania.