Locusts are a sought-after delicacy in some regions of the Kingdom. However, experts are cautioning against its consumption as they could be poisonous.
Adnan Al-Khan, Director of the Saudi Center for Locust Control and Research at Ministry of Agriculture, said: “Today, locusts are not safe to eat as they were in the past days because most infested areas have been sprayed with insecticides to combat the swarms, and therefore eating locusts could be poisonous.”
He stressed that even if locusts are sold alive, it doesn’t mean that they were not treated with pesticides.
Al-Khan said that so far about SR 12 million have been spent on the purchase of insecticides to combat locust swarms.
He said efforts were made to control the sale of locusts in the Kingdom’s northern regions but it led to the emergence of a locust black market and pushed the prices to one of their highest levels. One bag of locusts was being sold at over SR 5,000.
He pointed out that they had tried to prevent the sale of locusts in the Kingdom's northern regions; but this led to the emerging of locust black market and pushed the prices to one of their highest levels, as locust bag sold for over than SR5,000.
Al-Khan stressed that the pesticides used by the Saudi Center for Locust Control and Research are safe and reliable, and approved by the World Health Organization (WHO). Its usage is also allowed by the Food and Drug Administration; however such insecticides when exposed to high temperature during boiling or roasting the locusts, may disintegrate and produce other substances which are dangerous and toxic to humans.
Dr. Ali Ashaqi, expert and consultant in environmental issues, said anyone who eats locusts for a period of seven to 10 days might expose himself to pesticides, and in turn, to major health problems that might be fatal.
Experts: Locust consumption can be dangerous
Experts: Locust consumption can be dangerous
Where We Are Going Today: Karak Haala in Jeddah
- Karak Haala offers two popular Indian classics: chapati — the traditional flatbread made from whole wheat flour and cooked on a griddle — and chai karak, a creamy milk tea infused with bold spices and inspired by Indian masala chai
While Jeddah’s rich cultural diversity means that karak tea is widely available in the city, finding a place that prepares it the perfect way is not always easy. When a place does it right, it stands out.
So I was fortunate to come across Karak Haala at a dining square in Al-Rawdah that was bustling with families enjoying quick snacks and casual dinners. The lively square features outdoor seating, making it an appealing spot in winter.
Karak Haala offers two popular Indian classics: chapati — the traditional flatbread made from whole wheat flour and cooked on a griddle — and chai karak, a creamy milk tea infused with bold spices and inspired by Indian masala chai, widely loved across the Gulf.
The tea was rich, creamy, and well-spiced. I ordered a large cup, which was a generous enough helping to share. It paired well with four chapatis, one with fried eggs, one with cheese, and two interestingly filled with chicken masala and butter chicken, both of which were generously stuffed, juicy, and well-seasoned. Other fillings are also available. Each bite of chapati, followed by a sip of karak, made for a satisfying experience.
The outlet serves a complimentary traditional Indian cream bun with every cup of karak, which, while fresh and appetizing, felt, to me, more appropriate as a breakfast item rather than an evening treat.
With reasonable prices — ranging from SR9 to SR12 — Karak Haala is a solid choice for those seeking a light dinner or a quick snack. The menu also includes a variety of hot and cold beverages, sharing boxes, burgers, club sandwiches, and more.
