Running a weevil farm is a popular business in the south of Thailand, where the insects’ favourite food, sago palm trees grow. Farmers earn up to 7,000 baht per month selling weevils as a food believed to contain high unsaturated fat and protein. Photos by Patipat Janthong.

PHOTOS

27 SEP 2011

The Weevil Deal

Running a weevil farm is a popular business in the south of Thailand, where the insects’ favourite food, sago palm trees grow. Farmers earn up to 7,000 baht per month selling weevils as a food believed to contain high unsaturated fat and protein. Photos by Patipat Janthong.

 
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The Weevil Deal
The preparation of a net house is fundamental to running a weevil farm. The net house should be an enclosed area to prevent weevils from escaping. Humidity control is also essential.
The Weevil Deal
Sago palm trees over 10 years old are weevils' favourite plant. The trees are cut into logs approximately 50cm long with one tree enough for about 12 logs. These logs are then placed in the net house.
The Weevil Deal
Weevil breeders cost a one-time investment of 4 baht each.
The Weevil Deal
Weevils are put in sago palm logs covered with straw that must be watered twice a day to increase humidity levels. One log can accommodate five weevils.
The Weevil Deal
Weevils are left in logs to grow for about 35 days before they are ready to be sold.
The Weevil Deal
One sago palm log yields up to two kilos of weevils (up to 440 insects). Farmers sell weevils for up to 200 baht per kilo.
The Weevil Deal
Weevils must be left in clean water until they excrete before they can be cooked.
The Weevil Deal
Stir-frying is a good method of cooking weevils.
The Weevil Deal
Dishes made from weevils are believed to contain high levels of unsaturated fat and protein.