The Culture and Controversy of Insect-Riddled Cheeses

Have you ever wondered if people actually eat cheese infested with live maggots? This peculiar tradition, while uncommon in many parts of the world, remains a fascinating cultural practice in certain regions.

Insect-Infested Cheeses: A Disgusting Yet Curious Practice

For some, the mere thought of eating cheese infested with maggots can be quite off-putting. For others, however, it is a long-standing tradition that is rich in cultural significance and culinary adventure.

Casu Marzu: A Maggot-Filled Delicacy from Sardinia

One of the most renowned and controversial insect-infested cheeses is Casu Marzu, a traditional sheep's milk cheese from the island of Sardinia. This cheese is cultural treasure, albeit one that carries a certain level of risk. The key ingredient in Casu Marzu is not just any maggot, but rather the Phormia terranovae fly larvae known affectionately as "pezzugne" in the local dialect. These maggots infest the cheese, consuming it from the inside out.

The cheese is known to be in its prime when the maggots are still alive and moving around inside. Consuming Casu Marzu involves the risk of ingesting these crawlers, and as such, it is recommended one only eat the outer layer of the cheese, leaving the maggots below. The reason for the vigorous consumption of this cheese, which is often described as unappealing, is that there may be few, if any, maggots left by the time it is considered ready by the local cheesemakers.

Drawbacks of Consuming Maggot-Infested Cheeses

While the concept of eating a cheese chock full of maggots may seem adventurous, it is important to note that doing so can present significant health risks. The maggots can cause allergic reactions, digestive issues, and other health concerns. Additionally, in countries like Sardinia, there have been efforts to regulate or even ban the consumption of Casu Marzu, recognizing the potential dangers associated with it. As a result, it is now challenging to obtain Casu Marzu outside of limited regions, and purchasing it can be quite difficult.

A Curious Tradition: Coarse Angling and Fly Maggots

Interestingly, eating live maggots in cheese is not limited to exotic cheeses like Casu Marzu. In the UK, there is a fascinating link between fly maggots and a traditional sport known as Coarse Angling. During the late winter and early spring months, anglers often use live maggots as bait for their fishing lures. Often, these maggots are kept too cold and become lethargic, necessitating a quick warming technique. Young anglers and enthusiasts sometimes slip a few maggots between their inner cheek and the skin, allowing the body heat to revive the maggots and make them more effective as bait.

Personal Experiences and Cultural Insights

While the idea of eating maggots in cheese might seem absurd, many in certain cultures view it as a matter of tradition and even gourmet novelty. For example, there are accounts of Danes consuming cheese dipped in maggots, a practice that was quite common in the 1950s according to the author’s great-grandmother. Despite such claims, the author was skeptical, attributing these stories to senility. However, after spending time in Denmark, the author was surprised to find that the practice was indeed still a part of local folklore, although not widely practiced.

Conclusion: The Unusual Appeal of Insect-Infilled Cheeses

The consumption of insect-infested cheeses, such as Casu Marzu, remains a controversial topic, with health risks and legal considerations accompanying them. Yet, for those who dare to indulge, the experience can be fascinating and uniquely memorable. These cheeses represent a blend of tradition, culture, and culinary adventure, offering a glimpse into the unusual and sometimes quirky aspects of human food culture.