Grasshoppers, worms and ants: bon appétit!

Would you dare to eat insects? While this idea may seem strange to some, people worldwide consider them a delicacy. In Mexico, insects are part of our culinary tradition. Grasshoppers, escamoles, maguey worms, and chicatanas are unique ingredients in our gastronomy and a great source of nutrients. Rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and essential minerals, these tiny creatures could be the answer to some of the major food challenges of the future.

Edible insects have caught the interest of scientists, chefs, and international organizations like the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) for a simple reason: their production is much more sustainable than traditional meat. They require less water, land, and food, and they generate a minimal environmental footprint. As the world’s population grows and the climate crisis worsens, considering more responsible food alternatives is becoming increasingly urgent.

However, we don’t always pay attention to small things. In our eagerness to explore the vast universe we are part of, we often forget that a tiny world, full of life and complexity, also surrounds us. This miniature universe is more important than we might think, espe cially when it comes to our food and survival. Insects remind us that the solutions to big problems sometimes lie in small things, in what coexists with us yet often goes unnoticed.

If you’ve ever been curious about these fascinating organisms, we invite you to visit the optics exhibition at the Tezozómoc Museum. There, you will have the opportunity to discover the most surprising side of insects through dioramas, magnifying glasses, and micros copes that reveal their intricate anatomy. Take a close look at the textures of their bodies, the symmetrical shapes of their wings, and the unique patterns of their colors. Every detail will show you the complexity and beauty of this hidden world.

This exhibition is not only an invitation to learn more about the science of optics but also an opportunity to reflect on our connection with these creatures that often go unnoticed. Perhaps, after observing them up close, you might find yourself reconsidering the possibility of including them in your diet, or at least looking at these tiny giants of nature with more respect. Come to the Tezozómoc Museum and discover the science in action that lives within the smallest things.

For more information visit, Conversus: The power of plants