| Summary Discover the key differences between superworms and mealworms—taste, texture, nutrition, and uses. Both are protein-rich, eco-friendly, and great for snacking or baking. Learn which insect fits your needs and how to enjoy them safely and deliciously. |
Are you looking to add a nutritious, sustainable source of protein to your diet?
If yes, then you must try edible insects. Mealworms and superworms are the two most popular edible insects around the world. In fact, they are a part of the booming market expected to reach $28.54 billion by 2035. These insects are not only eco-friendly but also packed with protein:
- Mealworms contain 49.1 g (per 100 grams of dry mealworm larvae).
- Superworms contain 33.94 g (per 100 grams of superworm)
But with both insects offering great benefits, how do you know which one suits your needs the best?
Here, we will dive into mealworms vs superworms and compare them in terms of taste, nutrition, safety, and uses.
What Are Mealworms?
Mealworms are the young form of darkling beetles. They are small, golden brown insects with long, tube-shaped bodies and segments. They can grow up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) long when fully grown.
Common Uses:
Human Food: Mealworms are a nutritious food source rich in protein, fat, and fiber. In fact, they are approved for human consumption in the European Union. Under strict safety regulations, the EU has officially authorized dried and powdered yellow mealworms as a novel food. Outside the EU, mealworms have been allowed in certain food products for some time in the UK, Canada, and the US.
Animal Feed: Mealworms are used as a protein-rich feed for various animals, including reptiles, fish, birds, and small mammals.
Lifespan of a Mealworm
The lifespan of a mealworm is divided into four stages:
1. Egg
- Laid by adult beetles.
- Hatches in 10-12 days at 18–20°C.
- Most eggs are laid between day 1 and day 7 after mating.
2. Larva (Mealworm)
This is the feeding and growing stage. Depending on temperature and food, this stage can last up to 18 months.
3. Pupa
This is the transformation stage before becoming an adult. It lasts 7-9 days at 26°C or up to 20 days in cooler temperatures.
4. Adult Beetles
The pupa turns into an adult beetle, which completes the life cycle. Adult beetles emerge after 3-4 months and can live up to 280 to 630 days.
Can Mealworms Bite?
Mealworms don’t bite. They lack strong mandibles, the jaw-like structures some insects use to grasp, cut, and chew food. Mealworms are safe to handle and pose no risk of biting. However, they may wiggle a bit when held, but there is no need to worry about being harmed.
Can Humans Eat Mealworms?
Yes, humans can eat mealworms. They are FDA-approved or have similar regulatory approval for human consumption in some parts of the EU. Mealworms also come in various forms, including roasted, powdered, or even in protein bars.
How Do Mealworms Taste?
Mealworms have a mild, nutty flavor, often compared to almonds or roasted peanuts. When dried, they have a crunchy texture, making them a popular addition to snacks like protein bars or used as a crunchy topping for dishes.
What Are Superworms?
Superworms, scientifically known as Zophobas morio, are a larger and darker variety of beetle larvae compared to mealworms. Although they are preferred as a reptile food due to their size and nutritional content, they are gaining popularity for human consumption too.
Life Cycle of a Superworm
The life cycle of a superworm is divided into four main stages:
1. Egg
- White oval eggs (~1.7 mm long).
- A female can lay up to 2200 eggs,
- Eggs hatch in about 8 days at 25°C,
2. Larva (Superworm)
They have a yellow body with dark ends and a strong exoskeleton. They can grow up to 55 mm long. This is the stage that is most often sold as feeder insects. Larvae need isolation to pupate, as they do not transform when kept with others.
3. Pupa
Then the superworm curls up and becomes still as it changes into a pupa. They are inactive but can move if touched. They grow quietly into adult form over time.
4. Beetle
After the pupal stage, the adult darkling beetle emerges. They are large, elongated, with long antennae. Adult beetles can live for up to 6 months, longer than the mealworm beetles.
Do Superworms Bite?
Yes, superworms can bite, but the bites are not very painful or dangerous to humans. While they have jaws and can pinch skin, their jaws are not strong enough to cause severe damage. Superworms are safe to handle, especially if consumed as a food. When cooked or properly raised, they are entirely safe to eat.
Can Humans Eat Superworms?
Yes, humans can eat superworms, although they are less commonly eaten than mealworms. For safety and better taste, they should be cooked or roasted. Cooking kills the bacteria and improves the texture, making them crispier and easier to eat. Superworms are high in protein and fat. So, they are an ideal nutritious snack in many parts of the world.
How Do Superworms Taste?
Superworms have an earthy, umami-rich flavor that’s stronger than that of mealworms. They also have a meatier and chewier texture, which makes them a good fit for savory dishes like stir-fries or roasted snacks. When cooked, their flavor becomes nuttier and slightly smoky–a unique taste experience for adventurous eaters.
Key Differences: Mealworms vs. Superworms
| Feature | Mealworms | Superworms |
| Size | Smaller (1.25 to 1.8 cm) | Larger (5 to 6 cm) |
| Taste | Mild, nutty | Earthy, umami |
| Texture | Crunchy | Chewier, meatier |
| Lifespan | 3-12 months | 6-12 months |
| Biting | No | Mild pinch (harmless) |
Are Mealworms and Superworms the Same?
No, they are not the same! Mealworms and superworms are different species with clear differences:
- Size: Superworms are much larger than mealworms
- Taste: Superworms have a stronger, meatier flavor.
- Use: Mealworms are more common in human food; superworms are often used for pet food.
So, while they may look similar, they are not the same insect.
Nutritional Comparison
| Feature | Mealworms | Superworms |
| Species | Tenebrio molitor | Zophobas morio |
| Size | Smaller (up to 2.5 cm) | Larger (up to 5.5 cm) |
| Protein | Slightly higher | Slightly lower |
| Fats | Lower fat content | Higher in healthy fats |
| Minerals | Moderate levels | Richer in iron and calcium |
| Taste | Mild, nutty flavor. Taste a little like toasted seeds or popcorn. | Earthy, stronger umami flavor |
| Texture | Light and crunchy | Meatier and chewier |
| Common Use | Human snacks, pet food | Pet food, some human consumption |
Which Should You Choose?
- Pick Mealworms if: You want a milder taste, higher protein, and easy snacking.
- Pick Superworms if: You prefer a meatier texture and extra crunch in savory meals.
Recommended Products (Mealworms and Superworms)
Both mealworms and superworms are sustainable, nutritious, and surprisingly delicious!
Ready to try them? We at ecoEat provide eco-friendly, protein-rich, and delicious edible insects for a sustainable future. Try our premium-quality roasted mealworms and super worms today!
Your taste buds (and the planet) will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ans: No, they are not the same. They are both larvae of the darkling beetles, but they are different species. Superworms are the larvae of Zophobas morio, while mealworms are the larvae of Tenebrio molitor.
Ans: Yes, you can eat mealworms and superworms raw, but it is generally recommended that you cook them first to improve their taste and texture and reduce any potential health risks.
Ans: No, superworms should not be refrigerated. These worms are sensitive to cold temperatures and will die if placed in the refrigerator.
Ans: They can be stored for short and long periods by managing temperature and providing adequate food and moisture.
Ans: Yes, both mealworms and superworms can bite, but their bites are generally not harmful to humans.
Ans: Yes, both mealworms and superworms can carry parasites, though the risk is low when they are raised under proper conditions. That’s why it is important to buy from a reputable source.
Ans: Mealworms have a higher protein content compared to superworms.
Ans: Yes, both mealworms and superworms are naturally gluten-free. They are insects and do not contain gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Ans: No, people with shellfish allergies should avoid mealworms and superworms. Both are insects, and people who are allergic to shellfish also react to insects due to the cross-reactivity of the allergen tropomyosin.
Ans: Superworms have a mild, toasted bread-like flavor that humans find more appealing. On the other hand, mealworms have a bland or slightly nutty taste.
Ans: Yes, you can use mealworms and superworms for baking. You can use them whole (toasted) or ground into flour. They add protein, healthy fats, and a nutty flavor. Start small for the best texture and taste.