Top states with pests on the menu are ranked

LawnStarter, which bills itself as “an online platform that allows users to schedule lawn care and other outdoor services through a website or mobile app,” evidently has quite the in-house research department — and we are here for it.

Earlier this month, the Austin, Texas-based firm ranked 2024’s Top States to Try Edible Insect and Wildlife Cuisine. Its team considered the number of edible species available, the number of restaurants serving insects, and Google search interest. The entire methodology can be found here.

But let’s get to the good stuff, shall we? See LawnStarter’s ranking below:

Chart courtesy of LawnStarter

Chart courtesy of LawnStarter

Chart courtesy of LawnStarter

Chart courtesy of LawnStarter

Chart courtesy of LawnStarter

On its webpage devoted to this data, LawnStarter provides local tips for each of the Top 5 states as to where to go and what to expect. It also curates key insights and interviewed several entomologists and food scientists for their take about Americans coming around to seeing insects as a food source.

As for analysis, here are the team’s final thoughts:

Eating insects, or entomophagy, is more than just a trend — it’s a tasty and eco-friendly way to boost your nutrition while helping the planet. Around 2 billion people already enjoy bugs as part of their diet, and according to the American Heart Association, these critters are packed with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. 

Insects are dietary staples in many parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Now, this practice is catching on in the U.S., with insect farming becoming a viable solution to food security. 

With around 2,100 edible insect species globally, there’s plenty to choose from. 

Similarly, we want to know your thoughts. Have you had chocolate chirp cookies, stir-fried mealworms, deep-fried tarantulas or another pestiferous treat? Are you for or against the idea? How do you think your customers would react? Sound off below or drop us a line at pmpeditor@northcoastmedia.net.