Termite consumption and potential exposure to trace metals in dagbati, akoumape and kpeme, localities located in the phosphate mining area of Togo

This study investigates the consumption patterns of Macrotermes termites across three localities in TogoDagbati, Akoumapé, and Kpéméwithin the phosphate mining region, and examines the potential exposure to trace metals associated with this practice. Results reveal significant heterogeneity in entomophagy shaped by both geography and ethnicity. Consumption is nearly universal in Dagbati (100%) and Akoumapé (96.4%) but lower in Kpémé (65.7%). Paradoxically, termites are consumed more intensively in Kpémé (3.31 days/week; 52.68 g/week) than in the other sites, and a greater diversity of termite types is observed, including winged forms, queens, and mound termites, reflecting extensive ethnoecological knowledge and frequent mound exploitation (90.2%). In contrast, Dagbati and Akoumapé focus mainly on winged termites, collected primarily by light trapping. Motivations differ: taste drives consumption in Dagbati, while nutritional value is central in Akoumapé and Kpémé. Ethnicity significantly influences consumption patterns, revealing a north-south gradient : northern and central groups (Kabyè, Kotokoli, Moba) exhibit the highest frequency (4.00 days/week) and quantities (up to 70 g/week), whereas southern groups (Watchi, Ewe) consume less frequently and in smaller amounts (1.85 days/week; 23-25 g/week). Given the phosphate mining context, this study highlights the potential for trace metal exposure through termite consumption, suggesting that dietary practices and local environmental conditions jointly shape exposure risks.