A bug eating challenge from Harper Adams University returns to the Royal Cornwall Show in June – and this year the critters are even bigger and crunchier.

Following the success of the Edible Bug Challenge in 2015, the Ultimate Bug Challenge will be stopping off at Wadebridge during the show on June 9, 10 and 11.

In 2015, more than 5,300 people took part in the challenge throughout the UK. Marketing officer for shows and events, Sarah Swinnerton, said: ’There is a serious message behind the challenge – the world needs to secure its food supplies for an ever-expanding population. If things don’t change, we face a global crisis come 2050, when the total population is expected to hit nine billion.  

’The traditional plant-based diets of some countries are being replaced by protein heavy diets as wealth grows. Insects provide more or equal protein per bite than many of the types of meat and fish we already eat, and are far more sustainable to produce.

’We’ve made it our mission to show people that there’s no need to be squeamish about eating bugs – they really can be quite tasty.

’Everyone who takes part will get one of our Ultimate Bug Challenge stickers.’

To find out more about the show and to buy tickets please visit   www.royalcornwall.co.uk.