Rentokil ‘pestaurant’ to service up bug delicacies for 80th celebrations

Grub’s up — literally. A company which normally eradicates pests is going to treat people’s palates to the unusual taste of salted weaver ants; barbecued mole crickets; and chocolate-dipped worms.

As part of its 80th birthday celebrations, Rentokil Initial is hosting what it terms a pop-up ‘pestaurant’ in Killarney, Co Kerry, next month.

The company, which is the largest pest control outfit in the country, wants to highlight that insects are a viable food alternative.

Europe remains the only continent where edible insects don’t appear on regular menus. A number of different bodies, including the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation, see insects as a viable solution to feeding the world’s rapidly growing population.

Many insects are rich in protein, zinc, calcium and iron while also being low in fat. They also have a high “feed conversion rate”, meaning they can be farmed using relatively little land, water and energy compared to livestock.

The insects will be provided free to the public at the pop-up restaurant on May 11.

Rentokil Initial Ireland managing director Michael O’Mahoney said the pestaurant was being used to raise awareness of common pest issues and “demonstrates our commitment to keeping up the heat on Ireland’s pests”.

All of the edible insects and grubs are properly sourced and are nut-free and gluten-free.

However, some insects have been known to trigger reactions among those who are allergic to shellfish and crustaceans, so he recommends people with such an allergy don’t try them.

They can be very nutritious. For example, common house crickets contain four times as much protein as the same weight of chicken.

Meanwhile, as part of the day’s activities the company is supporting a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people wearing Wellington boots in one place. It’s being organised by Glenflesk GAA Club, which is seeking 2,000 people to walk 1km in their Wellington boots.

The walk will start at The Brehon Hotel in Killarney at noon and ends near The Gleneagle Hotel.

Registration on the day will be open from 10.15am. Entry costs €5 for adults, €20 for a family, and all profits will go to Glenflesk GAA Club.