World News for Students of English

21-02-2025 15:00

There are misleading claims suggesting that dangerous insect-based products have been approved in Europe.

Some political figures and conspiracy theorists argue that the EU is risking public health by allowing these products, but there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.

The European Commission recently approved using UV-treated yellow mealworm powder in food, following strict safety checks by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Insects are considered a sustainable alternative to meat as they require fewer resources and produce fewer emissions. Despite being common in some African and South American diets, insect consumption is controversial in Europe. Some politicians, particularly from far-right and Eurosceptic groups, claim that the EU is replacing traditional meat with insects. They see this as a political move against farmers and livestock industries.

Even though experts confirm that insect-based foods are safe, many Europeans reject them due to food neophobia, a fear of eating unfamiliar foods. This attitude may slow their acceptance in the market.

Difficult words: misleading (giving the wrong idea or impression), conspiracy theorist (a person who believes that an event or situation is the result of a secret plan made by powerful people), controversial (causing public disagreement).

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