South Korean Michelin Restaurant Faces Charges for Serving Ant-Topped Dishes

A restaurant in South Korea is facing possible legal charges for using ants as an ingredient in its dishes, which violates the country's Food Sanitation Act since ants are not recognized as an edible insect under Korean law. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has referred the case to prosecutors after discovering the restaurant imported dried ants from the US and Thailand between 2021 and 2024, using three to five ants per dish in approximately 12,000 servings. While some insects like grasshoppers, mealworms, and silkworm pupae are legally permitted as food ingredients, ants require special authorization that the restaurant did not obtain. The investigation began following social media and blog posts showcasing the dish, which was reportedly popular among customers for its unique flavor and acidity. Violations of the Food Sanitation Act can result in fines or imprisonment, and authorities have requested administrative actions against the establishment. The restaurant owner claimed unawareness of the legal restrictions regarding ants as food ingredients.