The study found that the yellowish fluid, produced by the Pacific beetle cockroach (Diploptera punctata), contained three times the calories of buffalo milk, which had previously been considered the most calorie-rich mammalian milk.
Scientists noted that cockroach milk is packed with proteins, amino acids, and healthy sugars, essential for cell growth and repair.
"This discovery is truly extraordinary," said Dr. Emily Watts, a researcher at the University of Oxford. "The nutritional profile of cockroach milk presents a remarkable alternative, especially for those looking to enhance their diet with something packed with natural, beneficial components."
Although its potential benefits are vast, cockroach milk remains unavailable for human consumption. One of the primary challenges lies in its production: female cockroaches only produce a small quantity of the fluid to nourish their offspring, making large-scale harvesting impractical at this stage.
Despite the potential drawbacks, the idea of cockroach milk aligns with the growing interest in alternative and sustainable food sources. As researchers continue to study its feasibility, there is hope that it could play a key role in the future of food innovation.
However, experts have cautioned that, like other superfoods, cockroach milk should complement a balanced and diverse diet rather than replace traditional healthy eating habits.
As research progresses, its potential could eventually see it emerge as a novel addition to the health and wellness industry.
