China Museum Offers Cockroach Coffee Brew for US$6, Assuring Safety for Patrons

A museum in Beijing has introduced a peculiar coffee brew, made by sprinkling ground cockroach powder on the surface of the drink, which is further enhanced with dried yellow mealworms. The "bug coffee" is priced at 45 yuan (approximately US$6) per cup and is primarily ordered by young, adventurous customers curious about the unconventional brew.

The museum, which specializes in insects, launched this strange coffee offering in June, and it has since gained attention on the internet. In addition to the cockroach coffee, the museum also serves other unique beverages, including a drink made with the digestive juice of a pitcher plant and a limited-edition ant brew offered during Halloween.

According to an employee, all the ingredients used in these drinks are sourced from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) herb shops, ensuring the safety of the beverages. TCM claims that cockroach powder can aid in blood circulation, while yellow mealworms are believed to boost the immune system.

While the cockroach coffee has a "burnt and slightly sour" flavor, some customers are skeptical about its appeal. Internet users have expressed mixed reactions, with some daring to try it and others refusing to drink it, even for money. Unconventional coffee drinks have become a trend in China, with other cafes offering similarly bizarre concoctions, such as deep-fried worms mixed with coffee.