In the past I’ve contemplated whether bugs might be an affordable and perhaps even tasty form of food. According to Andrew Sullivan, Europe is spending three million Euros exploring the possibility of an insect food supply. (Quote from the text linked at Sullivan’s site.)

Insects are a natural food source: They are packed with protein and calcium, low in fat, and offer a cheaper option to farming livestock. Compared to most animals used for food, these cold-blooded creatures spend less energy and nutrients, reproduce faster and in higher quantities…

Disgusted? It turns out you’re already eating bugs.

Take “cochineal extract”” [PDF], also known as “carmine.” It’s a “natural” color additive extracted from crushed and dried cactus-dwelling female cochineal beetles and eggs which are then used to color red, pink, or purple candies, plus yogurts, ice creams, drugs, fruit beverages, baby products, and cosmetics by companies like Smashbox and Yves Saint Laurent

Of course, no one is asking about the real dangers of eating bugs. If humanity suddenly turned towards an insect diet, is it possible that insects would declare war on humans and millions of 8 legged creatures would storm into our cities, ripping the flesh from our faces in tiny bug-mouth sized bites? Is it possible that you might turn to your lover, an amorous look in your eye, only to suddenly see thousands of bugs pouring out of their mouth, nose, ears and anus?

Yes, it is possible.