David George Gordon, Apostle for Bugs on the Dinner Plate, Dies at 76

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Published: 2026-09-21T17:08:19.020Z • Permanent link

David George Gordon, a pioneer in promoting entomophagy, or the practice of eating insects, has passed away at the age of 76. His life's work was marked by a bold advocacy for insects as a sustainable and nutritious food source. Born in 1947 in the United States, Gordon's interest in insects as a food source began in the 1970s, when he was a student at the University of Wisconsin. He went on to earn a Ph.D. in entomology from the University of California, Berkeley.

Gordon's most notable achievement was the publication of "The Eat-a-Bug Cookbook" in 1977, which showcased a variety of insect-based recipes and helped to popularize the concept of entomophagy. His enthusiasm and charisma were evident in his cooking demonstrations, which often featured live insects such as tarantulas and crickets on television. These appearances helped to raise awareness about the potential of insects as a food source and paved the way for future research and innovation in the field.

Gordon's work was not without controversy, however. Some critics questioned the safety and feasibility of large-scale insect farming, while others raised concerns about the potential impact on human health and the environment. Despite these challenges, Gordon remained committed to his vision of a world where insects were a mainstream food source. In his later years, he continued to advocate for the use of insects as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional livestock.

Gordon's passing marks the loss of a tireless advocate for entomophagy, but it also highlights the growing importance of this field in the context of global food security and sustainability. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, deforestation, and water scarcity, alternative protein sources such as insects are becoming increasingly attractive. Companies such as Six Foods and Chirp Seeds are already developing insect-based products, and research institutions such as the University of California, Berkeley, are exploring the potential of insects as a sustainable food source.

The impact of Gordon's work will be felt across various sectors, from agriculture and food production to research and policy-making. His legacy will serve as a reminder of the importance of considering alternative protein sources in the face of global food insecurity. As the global demand for protein continues to rise, the development of sustainable and nutritious food sources such as insects will play an increasingly critical role in shaping the future of food production.

Gordon's work was part of a broader movement to promote sustainable and alternative food sources. In the 1970s and 1980s, the concept of "food security" began to gain traction as a major development priority. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched a series of initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing hunger, including the development of alternative protein sources such as insects.