Members of the 1860 Burke and Wills expedition to cross Australia fell prey to scurvy or starved in part because they refused to eat what the indigenous Australians ate. Bugong-moth abdomen and witchetty grub may sound revolting, but they have as much scurvy-battling vitamin C as the same size serving of cooked spinach, with the additional benefits of potassium, calcium, and zinc.
During the 1860 Burke and Wills expedition aimed at traversing Australia, the team encountered severe health issues, including scurvy and starvation. A significant factor contributing to their plight was their refusal to consume the traditional food of the indigenous Australians. This highlights a troubling disconnect between the expedition members and the available local resources that could have provided essential nutrients.
Foods like bugong-moth abdomen and witchetty grub, although unappetizing to some, are rich in vitamin C, comparable to cooked spinach, and also offer vital minerals like potassium, calcium, and zinc. The reluctance of the expedition members to adopt these diets ultimately hampered their survival, illustrating the importance of embracing local foods and knowledge in unfamiliar environments.
