EU to allow mealworms in food products—users hilariously respond, “Extra protein I guess”

Starting February 10, Europe’s mealworm scene is about to get a little... crunchier. The European Union has officially approved the use of up to 4% UV-treated mealworm powder in food products like bread, cheese, and pasta. That’s right tiny, protein-packed critters could soon be making a surprise guest appearance in your sandwich.

While insects as food isn’t exactly new (many cultures have been enjoying them for centuries). However, the idea of mealworms in everyday groceries is raising a few eyebrows and making the internet lose its collective mind. Because, let’s be honest, the thought of biting into a baguette with a side of bug dust is something people have opinions about

EU’s mealworm approval sparks internet frenzy

The reaction went wild- from curious acceptance to outright panic the moment the news broke.

"Well, looks like Europe's adding a little crunch to the menu!"

such a viral post perfectly summed it up. With that, floodgates of food-based comedies were finally open.

The post quickly went viral, with users weighing in with their best bug-themed one-liners. Some took the sophisticated route:

"Europeans about to find out if mealworms pair better with red or white wine"

Others leaned into the classic protein angle:

"Extra protein, I guess."

And then there were the desperate pleas to keep this trend from crossing the Atlantic:

"Please don't let American bread companies see this post "

Another one said,

"Eat ze bugs"

Let's face it: some people, given their economic status, will readily give up some worm dust if it drops the price of their favorite carbs.

Of course, the horror stories made their way into the mix, too. Some users joked about never trusting store-bought bread again, others imagined the moment someone unknowingly bites into a bug-enhanced croissant. The mental picture alone is enough to give you chills or at least a new appreciation for ingredient labels.

Some reactions even touched on the cultural divide, with users pointing out how insects have been part of diets in various parts of the world for ages. Others joked about the inevitable influencer trend, predicting worm-infused recipes popping up on TikTok any day now.

Despite the chaos online, mealworms are a sustainable protein source, and their use in food could be a step toward more eco-friendly eating. Insect farming requires fewer resources than traditional livestock, making it a potential solution for a more sustainable future. But let’s be real most people aren’t quite ready to swap their usual snacks for something that used to wiggle.

Will worm-infused food become a staple in European pantries? That remains to be seen. But for now, one thing’s certain: the internet is having way too much fun with this, and we’re all here for the reactions.

So, what do you think would you give bugged-up bread a try, or is this a hard pass? Let us know... preferably before your next grocery run.