I have arranged to meet with an entomologist named Dana Ludwig, who works in the FDA's Alameda, Calif., Filth Lab, which analyzes thousands of samples of foods, most imported from the Pacific Rim, each year. In a moment of social ineptitude, I have asked Ludwig if the ludwig is a relative of the earwig. Straight off the bat, I have my foot in my mouth. I should be used to having feet in my mouth, for humans are eating insect parts all the time without knowing it. According to an Ohio State University Extension fact sheet, most Americans unintentionally swallow 1 to 2 pounds of insects and insect pieces each year.
Insects are very lightweight.
The Alameda Filth Lab employs several analytical entomologists. Just inside the lab doorway, we stop to go over our clothing with a lint roller. Ludwig is looking at my shirt. The problem turns out to be my pet angora sweater. Ludwig covers me up with a lab coat.