Chef Faces Legal Trouble Over Edible Ant Dessert in South Korea

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A Michelin-starred restaurant owner in South Korea is facing potential prison time and hefty fines for serving a sorbet dessert decorated with edible ants, which violates local food safety laws. The restaurant has been using imported dehydrated ants since 2021, serving approximately 49,000 ants in 12,200 servings. Investigators found that the ants contained heavy metals exceeding safe limits, leading to a proposed fine of 20 million won (about $13,580) and a reported profit of 120 million won ($81,470) over four years. The verdict is expected in September, raising questions about the legality of insect consumption in South Korea, where only ten insect species are approved for human consumption.
Key Details: • Potential fine of 20 million won (approx. $13,580) for the restaurant owner. • 49,000 ants served in 12,200 portions since 2021. • Heavy metals found in ants were up to 55 times above safe limits. • Verdict expected in September regarding the case.