MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANT OWNER FACES JAIL FOR SERVING ANTS

South Korean prosecutors have sought a one-year prison sentence and a fine of 20 million Korean won (£10,100) against the owner of a Michelin-starred restaurant for serving black ants as a dessert garnish. The charges relate to violations of food safety regulations, with prosecutors claiming the ants were used to "add a sour taste" to sorbets. The restaurant, which holds two Michelin stars, is accused of serving insects that are not approved for human consumption under South Korean law. Court proceedings began on Monday, with a verdict expected on 2 September.

South Korean regulations permit only 10 insect species for human consumption, including grasshoppers, locusts and crickets. The ants were imported from the United States and Thailand; investigators estimate approximately 49,000 ants were used across several dishes over four years. Health authorities found that the ants contained up to 55 times more heavy metals than typical edible insects, according to one report. The case emerged after officials from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety discovered online reviews and photographs posted by diners. The restaurant owner acknowledged serving ants but contended they were part of only a small portion of the 15-course menu, and that diners could request alternative toppings such as fermented vinegar or edible flowers; the owner stated that 60 per cent of customers chose the ant option.

The owner's legal team cited practices in other countries, noting that restaurants in Australia, Denmark and the United Kingdom also use ants as ingredients. Neither the restaurant nor its owner has been publicly named in court documents. Ten restaurants in Seoul currently hold two Michelin stars.