Khon Kaen University (KKU) Research Institute of Strategy and Coordination for Northeastern Development is taking steps to elevate Thailand’s economic insect industry by partnering with Japanese academics to explore the international potential of crickets.
On August 26, 2025, Research Institute of Strategy and Coordination for Northeastern Development, led by Deputy Director Dr. Anuwat Srisawat, hosted a special workshop for a delegation from Takasaki City University of Economics, Japan, headed by Professor Iijima, along with representatives from the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The event, held at the MiM – Mim Insectarium & Creative Park within the Faculty of Agriculture, featured a creative workshop led by Ms. Nuchkanya Limsuwattana, an entrepreneur from Siwapon Farm. She demonstrated innovative methods for processing crickets into value-added food products.
Participants were shown how to create fusion dishes that blend the high-protein insect with popular foods, including “Khanom Khai Tao (cricket),” a variation of a traditional Thai sweet potato ball, and “pineapple pie with cricket powder.” The workshop highlighted how crickets can be seamlessly integrated into appealing and marketable food items, aiming to boost their profile on the global stage.
In the afternoon, the delegation gained practical, on-the-ground experience by visiting the Ban Nong Hai Community Cricket Enterprise in the Non Sila district of Khon Kaen. Local entrepreneur Mr. Phudit Harnsawat hosted the group, providing an in-depth tour of the entire cricket farming process. The visitors observed every stage of production, from feeding and watering the crickets to harvesting them for sale. The tour also covered post-harvest management, including boiling, cold storage, and various primary processing techniques such as frying, drying, and preparing local snacks.
This field visit, which followed a joint seminar held on August 25, highlights Khon Kaen University’s commitment to promoting the insect industry internationally. The initiative serves as a bridge for academic and business collaboration between Thailand and other nations, aiming to strengthen the grassroots economy and add sustainable value to local products.
