Several officials at Ban Huad Subdistrict Office in Lampang, Thailand, experienced stomach pain, diarrhoea, and dizziness after consuming insects collected from a tree outside the office. The incident, which prompted a public warning, led to several individuals requiring hospital treatment. On May 27, a rescuer posted the warning online, highlighting symptoms such as nausea and numbness among the affected.
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The insects in question were identified as Pear Hoy Yak, or giant scale insects. Typically found on tree bark, these insects are notable for their white shell-like coating. One official, Porramate Boonma, reported finding the insects on a monkey pod tree at the office. Initially, one official consumed the insects with no ill effects, leading others to gather, deep-fry, and share them, mistakenly trusting their safety.
Out of those who ate the insects, 12 reported immediate symptoms, while Porramate, who consumed less than 10, remained unaffected. Three officials required hospital care for further evaluation. Locals in the area are known to eat insects regularly, and past consumption had not resulted in similar adverse effects.
Porramate speculated that the insects could have ingested sap from the monkey pod tree, possibly possessing laxative effects. However, this theory has not been confirmed medically. Social media conjecture included the possibility of confusion with another edible insect species.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Thaiger · 28 May 2026
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