eating lettuce/bug eatten - Ask Extension
Can you still eat lettuce, arugula and basil that has been chewed on by grasshoppers and japanese beetle?
Knowledgebase
eating lettuce/bug eatten #880596
Asked August 07, 2024, 4:43 PM EDT
Can you still eat lettuce, arugula and basil that has been chewed on by grasshoppers and japanese beetle?
Denver County Colorado
Expert Response
The lettuce and arugula in my outdoor garden
If you are certain that the damage is caused by insects you can cut away damaged areas and wash carefully in order to eat your produce.
If there is a chance they have been nibbled on by rabbits, for example if there are rabbits in your yard and there are rabbit pellets nearby, do not eat. Rabbits and other animals such as deer can spread disease.
Take a look at this publication from University of Connecticut for more details:
https://publications.extension.uconn.edu/2014/08/06/should-i-eat-that/
If there is a chance they have been nibbled on by rabbits, for example if there are rabbits in your yard and there are rabbit pellets nearby, do not eat. Rabbits and other animals such as deer can spread disease.
Take a look at this publication from University of Connecticut for more details:
https://publications.extension.uconn.edu/2014/08/06/should-i-eat-that/
