Abstract:
Termites are widely used as a food resource, particularly in Africa and Asia. Markets for insects as food
are also expanding worldwide. To inform the development of insect-based foods, we analysed selected
minerals (Fe-Mn-Zn-Cu-Mg) in wild-harvested and commercially available termites. Mineral values
were compared to selected commercially available insects. Alate termites, of the genera Macrotermes
and Odontotermes, showed remarkably high manganese (Mn) content (292–515 mg/100 gdw), roughly
50–100 times the concentrations detected in other insects. Other mineral elements occur at moderate
concentrations in all insects examined. On further examination, the Mn is located primarily in the
abdomens of the Macrotermes subhyalinus; with scanning electron microscopy revealing small spherical
structures highly enriched for Mn. We identify the fungus comb, of Macrotermes subhyanus, as a
potential biological source of the high Mn concentrations. Consuming even small quantities of termite
alates could exceed current upper recommended intakes for Mn in both adults and children. Given the
widespread use of termites as food, a better understanding the sources, distribution and bio-availability
of these high Mn concentrations in termite alates is needed.
