By Blessing Nweke
South Korean prosecutors have requested a one-year prison sentence for the owner of a two-Michelin-starred restaurant accused of illegally serving ants as part of its tasting menu, according to local media reports.
The prosecution also asked the court to impose a fine of 20 million Korean won (about $13,510) on the restaurant for violating the country’s food safety regulations.
Under South Korean law, ants are not among the 10 insect species approved for human consumption. The approved list includes grasshoppers, locusts, mealworms and two-spotted crickets, while ants remain prohibited due to safety concerns.
The restaurant owner admitted using ants but argued they were featured only as an optional garnish on sorbets served during a 15-course meal. Diners were informed in advance and could choose alternative toppings, including fermented vinegar or edible flowers. According to the defence, only about 60% of customers chose the ant garnish.
The case emerged after officials from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety discovered online reviews featuring photographs of dishes topped with ants. Investigators estimated that approximately 49,000 ants imported from the United States and Thailand had been served over a four-year period.
Authorities also alleged that laboratory tests found the ants contained heavy metal levels up to 55 times higher than those typically found in approved edible insects.
The defence argued that restaurants in countries such as Australia, Denmark and the United Kingdom also use ants in fine dining cuisine.
Court documents did not identify the restaurant or its owner. South Korea currently has 10 restaurants with two Michelin stars, all located in Seoul.
The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on September 2.
Original article
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