Sago Worms: A Tribal Delicacy in ASR District

Visakhapatnam: The larva of red palm beetle (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), locally called sago worm, is a popular delicacy in the Araku, Paderu and Chintapalli areas of Alluri Seetharama Raju district.

These thrive during the current season. Adivasi relish these pale-coloured, soft-bodied social insects found in the remnants of sago palm, coconut and date tree trunks.

Known by various names globally, the tribal people refer to it as “Boddengu.”

Belonging to the Dryophthoridae family and Rhynchophorus genus, the Adivasi dig up the base of palm plants and trees between November to February to collect sago worms. These are turned into various dishes, including curry, kebab, and dum biryani. They are believed to be excellent starters with alcohol.

Due to the rising demand, tribal people have now started selling sago worms. Four to five of these worms fetch ₹10 to ₹15.

Home science scientist B. Divya Sudha reveals the high nutritional value of sago worms. According to her, 100 grams of these worms contain 25.8g of protein, 38.5g of fat, 2.1g of ash, 33.2g of carbohydrates, and 583 kcal. They are rich in magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron, potassium, phosphorus, fatty acids, lipids, dietary fibre and carbohydrates.