Seoul Michelin Restaurant Fined for Ant Garnish

Evett, a highly-rated restaurant in Seoul, was fined 15 million won (approximately $10,965) for using ants as a garnish on its dishes. The company operating the restaurant received an additional 10 million won fine for violating the Food Sanitation Act.

Ants are not among the 10 insect species approved for human consumption in South Korea, which include grasshoppers and silkworms. Prosecutors had initially sought a one-year prison sentence for the restaurant's owner and a 20 million won fine. However, the judge took into account the owner's admission of the charge and lack of prior criminal record. Despite this, the judge noted that tests revealed heavy metals exceeding standards in the ants, indicating significant culpability.

The owner reportedly claimed ignorance of the prohibition in South Korea, stating that ants are consumed as food in other parts of the world. The practice came to light after the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety discovered online reviews with accompanying photographs. The owner had been using three to five ants on certain dishes for nearly four years to impart a sour taste, totaling approximately 49,000 ants used as garnish.

Most of the ants were imported from the United States, with some originating from Thailand. The defense argued that ants were used in a small portion of the restaurant's 15-course menu and that diners were informed and could opt for an alternative topping. Ants are a recognized food source and even a delicacy in various Asian, African, and Latin American cultures. For example, weaver ants and their eggs are used in Thai and Cambodian cuisine, and queen ants are considered a delicacy in Colombia.

The Michelin Guide recognizes a two-star establishment as one that offers "excellent cooking" and is "worth a detour."