Memorable Food Experience

Some years ago for an HS class students had to bring a dish traditional to their culture. One girl brought fried rice with larva (I forget where the girl comes from; I think it was Indonesia).

Many of the students refused to try it. I didn't. Knowing what it was it was challenging to try but surprisingly it didn't taste gross. In fact, it was flavorless and crunchy.

In my Eastern European culture we eat things that might be considered "gross" by others: lard, marinated salty fish, cow's intestines, tongue and even brain. But still I wonder: why do people eat bugs? Is it strictly regional because of the lack of animals in the area? Is it because of shortage of food? Is it beneficial to one's health?

I found some interesting info on National Geographic, explaining some of the aspects of bug-eating. Apparently it is healthy.