In 2016, an international team of researchers released a study in IUCrJ that analyzed the atomic structure of protein crystals from a lesser-known cockroach species, Diploptera punctata. These crystals—developed in embryos—are nutritionally dense, leading scientists to propose they could eventually be a powerful compact food source.
Using molecular imaging, the study showed that these crystals consist of proteins, sugars, and lipids, and may provide over three times the energy of buffalo milk per gram. While the idea of cockroach milkshakes is still far off, this research could have significant implications for areas like food science, space travel, and survival nutrition.
A Unique Cockroach and an Unusual Form of Nourishment
Diploptera punctata, found in the Pacific, is among the few insects that give birth to live young, as opposed to laying eggs. To nurture her developing embryos, the mother produces a milk-like fluid that crystallizes in the offspring’s gut. Each of these Lili-Mip protein crystals provides all essential amino acids, plus fats and carbohydrates.
X-ray diffraction was used to image the crystals, revealing their complex structure which includes a lipocalin fold, bound lipids, and tightly packed glycosylated layers. This unique configuration allows for slow digestion—a rarity for natural proteins. Co-author Sanchari Banerjee described the crystals as “a complete food,” delivering both macronutrients and a time-release nutritional profile.
Built for Slow Release and High Efficiency
Unlike many supplements that cause quick spikes in energy followed by crashes, the cockroach milk crystals dissolve gradually, ensuring a steady energy supply. This sustained release stems from their tightly organized molecular structure, which holds nutrients in layers that break down slowly during digestion.
As lead researcher Subramanian Ramaswamy pointed out, this protein “is time-released food. If you need calorically high food, that is time-released and complete—this is it.” This might make it particularly beneficial in situations that demand compact, long-lasting nutrition, like emergency food supplies or long space missions.
No Milking Machines—Just Molecular Biology
Despite popular buzz, extracting cockroach milk isn’t practical. Producing just 100 grams of crystals would necessitate over 1,000 cockroaches. Consequently, the researchers focused on identifying and sequencing the genes responsible for Lili-Mip proteins and are working on replicating them in yeast and other microbes. This approach could enable mass production without relying on the insects themselves.
If they’re successful, it may lead to a new class of engineered superfoods, providing compact, customizable nutrition tailored for diverse needs. This biomanufacturing method could also allow for precise composition control, making it possible to meet specific demographic or health requirements.
Future Use Cases—But Not Your Next Protein Shake
Even with its high nutritional value, cockroach milk isn’t ready for general consumption. For starters, no clinical trials have established its safety for humans. Additionally, there’s the issue of caloric density: a hypothetical 250 ml serving might contain around 700 kilocalories, which isn’t ideal for those watching their calories.
However, it could excel in specialized applications: nutritional support for malnourished individuals, food for astronauts, or in emergency packs where stability and packing efficiency matter more than taste. The crystals boast high stability, don’t need refrigeration, and have an almost perfect nutrient profile—qualities that are hard to find in standard food sources.
As for the taste? Some researchers who have worked with the crystals reported that they have no distinct flavor—a slight comfort considering the unusual nature of this potential food source.
