9 health benefits of cockroach milk: Is it the next superfood?

9 health benefits of cockroach milk: Is it the next superfood?

By Saumya Rastogi | March 12, 2025 | All pictures representational | Images: Freepik

It’s not actually ‘milk’

Despite its name, cockroach milk isn’t a liquid like cow’s milk. Instead, it’s a protein-rich crystal that forms inside the gut of the Pacific beetle cockroach, which is the only known cockroach species to give birth to live young

Extremely nutrient-dense

Studies suggest that cockroach milk contains three times more energy than buffalo milk, which is already known to be richer than cow’s milk. It is loaded with proteins, essential amino acids, sugars, and fats, making it a highly concentrated energy source

Produced to feed baby cockroaches

The Pacific beetle cockroach doesn’t lay eggs but gives birth to live nymphs. The mother secretes a nutrient-dense ‘milk’ inside her brood sac, where the developing young consume it to grow

Contains time-released proteins

One of the most remarkable properties of cockroach milk is its ability to release proteins gradually. This slow digestion process could help provide a sustained energy source, making it appealing for athletes or those needing long-lasting nutrition

A sustainable protein alternative

With the global demand for protein sources increasing, scientists are looking into cockroach milk as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dairy and meat. Producing it would require far fewer resources than raising cattle, making it a more sustainable option

Not yet commercially available

Although the potential of cockroach milk is exciting, it is not yet available for human consumption. Researchers are still exploring ways to mass-produce it in a lab setting since milking cockroaches individually is impractical

Could benefit future space travel

Because of its high nutritional density and slow-release energy properties, some scientists believe cockroach milk could be an ideal food source for astronauts on long space missions

Lactose-free and hypoallergenic

Since cockroach milk is not derived from mammals, it is naturally lactose-free, making it a possible alternative for people with lactose intolerance. However, more studies are needed to determine if it is suitable for widespread consumption

More research is needed

While cockroach milk has promising nutritional benefits, its safety and feasibility for human consumption are still under investigation. Scientists are studying whether it can be produced ethically and efficiently before it enters the mainstream food market

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