She thought it was quinoa, then she took a closer look and gagged herself

Are they dangerous?

Insect eggs are generally not harmful if eaten accidentally, but they are clearly not intended for human consumption. Food handling and cleanliness are the main issues. Their presence raises the possibility that insect eggs were left in salads because the greens had not been properly cleaned or inspected before being served.

 

 

Here’s what to do if you discover something similar in your food, especially in a salad bar or restaurant:

  • Stop eating immediately. If you suspect insect eggs in your salad, don’t take the risk of eating the rest of the meal.
  • As proof, take a clear photo, like this one.
  • Inform the employees of the store or restaurant in a friendly manner. Most reputable establishments will carefully review your claim and may offer you a replacement or refund.
  • If the problem seems to be part of a pattern or is not being treated appropriately, report it to your local health department.
  • Examine any remaining greens and wash them well under running water if you’re dining at home.

 

 

Tips to avoid this in the future

Sometimes, even greens that have already been washed can escape quality checks. Here are some safety tips to avoid eating insect eggs in your salad:

  • Always take a look at your salad before eating it, especially if it contains green leafy vegetables like spinach, romaine, or butter lettuce.
  • Even “triple-washed” greens should be rinsed when preparing at home for safety reasons and to be sure that any remaining insect eggs are gone.
  • Only buy organic lettuce and other field-grown produce if you can clean it properly, as insects are more prevalent in fields that are not treated.