UNBS develops edible insects’ standards

By our reporter

Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has called upon the public to comment on the suitability of the Edible insects’ standard, DUS 2146:2019 Edible insects Specification, for implementation.

Developing this standard was prompted by increased trade of edible insects and their products in Uganda.

The Draft Uganda Standard, DUS 2146:2019 Edible insects  Specification, specifies the requirements, sampling and test methods for edible insects which include grasshoppers, termites, Locusts, crickets and other edible insects.

The draft standard requires that the edible insect, whether, whole or granulated or powder or paste and either fried or dried shall be free from adulterants, extraneous material and objectionable odour.

They will also be free from infestation and contamination from pests, comply with the maximum pesticide residue and veterinary residues limits established by CODEX Alimentarius commission for similar commodities and not contain heavy metal contaminants in amounts which may represent a hazard to health

Insects will be hygienically produced, prepared and handled in accordance with the provisions of appropriate sections of US EAS 39 and be packaged in food grade containers which will safeguard the hygienic, nutritional, and organoleptic qualities of the product, and more.

The public is free to comment on the draft standard starting 12th September 12- November 11, 2019 and draft can be accessed on the UNBS website.