Evaluation of acute toxicity of Ducetia japonica on mice model

Ducetia japonica, also known as bush cricket, is an edible insect that is valued as a food source by various tribal communities in Arunachal Pradesh. Its nutrient content makes it a novel source for both human food and animal feed. However, no research has been done on its food safety or possible toxicity. The toxicological evaluation was carried out on mice for 2-weeks at four distinct dose levels of 2000, 3000, 4000, and 5000 mg/kg bodyweight, according to the criteria of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Bodyweight and clinical indicators showed no substantial toxicological related alterations. Furthermore, no toxicological changes in haematology were observed. When compared to a vehicle control group, serum alanine aminotransferase and creatinine levels did not differ between the experimental groups. In the liver and kidney tissues of mice, no histological and gross abnormalities were found. The relative organ weight of the treatment groups did not differ significantly from that of the vehicle control group. As a result, the LD50 value for Ducetia japonica is considered to be greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight and no evidence of toxic changes were observed in the present study.