Bioactivity of the edible part of Chicatana ant (Atta mexicana, Smith 1858) and its protein concentrate

Chicatana is the reproductive ant (male and female) of Atta mexicana specie (Smith, 1958). The abdomen is separated from the whole animal and traditionally used as food and medicinal remedy in the Estate of Veracruz (Mexico). It is rich in proteins and chitin. The insect protein concentrates (PCO) may be a way to valorise the edible insects. This research aimed to analyse the antioxidant, hypoglycaemic and antimicrobial activity in their edible form and as a protein concentrate. The results showed a protein concentrate with 56.18 ± 14.20 g protein/100 g. The chitin content of the edible abdomen was 16.05 g/100 g of dry matter. The edible part of the ant and the protein concentrate resulted in high antioxidant activity and some hypoglycemic activity. However, no antimicrobial activity could be found in either sample. Thus, the abdomen of Chicatana ants consumed in Veracruz may be a functional protein-rich food with antioxidant activity.