The Thai ethnic minority people living in Son La province's Mai Son District have long considered insects as a source of nutrition in their diets.

Fried crickets are popular among the Thai of Hat Lot town in Son La
Stink bugs, crickets and grasshoppers have been widely sold in the markets, specifically in this Northwest region of the country. Although some may find this fare undesirable, insects are a staple for the locals here.

Bee larvae served either steamed or fried

Stink bugs being sold in market

Water crickets often served minced with eggs

Insects serve as dietary staple to Thai people

Choosing carefully


The "bug market" is a long-standing tradition